This dazzling bouquet uses only two types of flowers. First, Ryan cuts petite brown-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia triloba) from the garden. Then, he adds purchased gerbera daisies. The bulk of the large flowers are placed low to anchor the arrangement, with a few taller ones added for line and height.

Hardy begonias (Begonia grandis) add color to this airy bouquet. A few globe amaranths and stems of shrubby indigo bush (Indigofera sp.) complete the look.

Take a Walk
As you peruse the garden with clippers in hand, go first to the obvious--maybe you have late-blooming brown-eyed Susans, globe amaranths, or hardy begonias. Then, take another look. "It isn't always when the flowers are at their peak that they're at their best," Ryan says. "Many times, when they go to seed, their true beauty comes forth." Crepe myrtle seedheads, fern fronds, and black-eyed Susan cones all contribute charm to your arrangements. Focus on the entire landscape. Then fill in with a few store-bought blooms.

Pretty All Around
Vase selection plays a significant role in Ryan's arrangements. Even though the sizes and styles vary, they share a common element: Each one is made with pockets to cradle stems in small openings. "These are containers designed specifically to hold only a few flowers," Ryan says. "Many of the new ones are based on old favorites." The benefits are simple: Fewer materials are required, and they stay where you place them. Arranging is easy, and the results are stunning.

"Bring Summer Inside" is from the August 2006 issue of Southern Living.