Robbie Caponetto; Styling: Sidney Bragiel; Floral Artistry: Zachary Westall
Not all breathtaking floral compositions are crafted from meticulously cultivated gardens or purchased blooms. For Zachary Westall, the Birmingham, Alabama-based garden and floral designer, the secret lies in mastering the art of foraging, which entails sourcing the finest arrangement materials straight from nature. This entails exploring the often-overlooked nooks of forgotten roadsides, sidewalks, untended lots, and the uncharted corners of the neighborhood. Westall shares his top foraging tips for collecting flowers and greenery with the finesse of a seasoned gardener.
When selecting plants, it’s crucial to honor the community and adhere to the “leave no trace” philosophy. “When foraging in the forest, be mindful of how you handle branches and foliage, ensuring it doesn’t appear as though someone has been tromping through,” advises the expert. It’s imperative to harvest only from areas that are not regularly maintained or cultivated (such as abandoned lots, road medians, or neglected areas around public sidewalks), and always seek permission if there’s any uncertainty. Steer clear of nature preserves, parks, and private gardens. “Take a stroll through your neighborhood, and as long as it’s not someone’s personal garden, it’s generally permissible,” Westall advises. “Avoid jumping fences or trespassing!”
Robbie Caponetto; Styling & Florals: Brooke McAfee
When cutting any plant, Westall emphasizes never to cut straight across the stem. “Enter the shrub, trace the branch to its base, and then make the cut there so it’s concealed,” he explains. “Once you’re away from the shrub, you can trim the stem to a more manageable size.”
Westall carries two essential tools on his foraging excursions: a pair of small, sharp scissors for delicate stems and sturdy pruners for robust, woody branches. “You don’t want to cause any significant harm to the shrub you’re harvesting from. It’s neither kind nor beneficial to the plant,” he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of using the right shears. He also suggests bringing a bucket of water to keep the fresh elements hydrated, particularly wildflowers, which are susceptible to wilting.
Westall encourages, “Always aim for more than you think you’ll need.” “Even for a small bud vase, cut it generously and then edit it down once you’re indoors,” he advises. He also recommends seeking out foliage with movement or distinctive features to enhance the arrangement’s appeal. “I always believe it enhances the overall aesthetic,” he says. For larger arrangements, be sure to include some sturdy pieces to form a solid base and structure. “I always opt for items with more branching than what you see, as the lower parts will be submerged in the vase,” Westall explains.
For autumnal foliage in particular, Westall suggests waiting until the first fall rain, which typically arrives near the end of September. “By then, the foliage is hydrated from the earth, making it the optimal time to gather and cut them,” he notes. “Avoid picking after weeks without rain. Wait for a touch of precipitation or when the nights start to cool, and the foliage will be ready to be harvested.”
