The summer garden produces a wealth of marvelous materials for casual arrangements. The idea of cutting a few stems of this and a few snips of that is fun and relaxing. And placing flowers in a vase in an easygoing design sounds like an effortless task. But once indoors, those inviting buds and blooms take on another life, refusing to stand in the container where you place them. Frustration is almost guaranteed.

However, flower arrangers have a secret. Their fabulous compositions--whether simple or complex--don't just happen. Certain devices make these endeavors doable; one of these is a prince of an invention known as a frog.

Placed in a vase, a frog's job is to hold flowers and foliage exactly where you want them. Depending on the stem size and arrangement style, there are a number of these implements from which to choose. One type has small needles or pins held within a container or on a heavy metal base. Another version has a sturdy metal cage that may incorporate a needle holder as well. A third type sports holes which can harbor single or multiple stems.

That said, be sure to select the correct frog for your arrangement. Small flowers and those with thin stems require only a tiny needle holder. Thick stems, tall branches, and top-heavy blooms need more support: A large metal-caged frog will work for these jobs.

Another secret: Attach the frog to the vase with a piece of florist clay or stickum. Place a small wad of clay on the frog's underside, press it firmly into the vessel, and then fill with water.