Robbie Caponetto; Fashion Direction: Sidney Bragiel; Botanical Artistry: Zachary Westall
Not all captivating floral compositions are crafted from meticulously nurtured garden flowers or purchased blooms. For Zachary Westall, a garden and botanical artist from Birmingham, Alabama, who has honed the skill of foraging, the secret lies in nature’s offerings. This entails a meticulous search for hidden treasures, exploring the often-overlooked roadsides, sidewalks, untended properties, and forgotten nooks of the neighborhood for the materials to create his masterpieces. Westall shares his expert tips for gathering flowers and foliage as if he were a seasoned horticulturist.
When selecting plants, it is crucial to honor the community and adhere to the “leave no trace” principle. “When foraging in the woods, be mindful of how you disturb the area, ensuring it remains unmarred by your passage,” advises the expert. It’s best to harvest only from areas that are not regularly maintained or cultivated (such as abandoned spaces, road shoulders, or neglected patches of public walkways), and always seek permission when in doubt. Steer clear of nature reserves, parks, and private gardens. “Take a stroll around your neighborhood, and as long as it’s not someone’s garden, it’s typically acceptable,” Westall advises. “Avoid jumping over fences and trespassing!”
Robbie Caponetto; Styling & Florals: Brooke McAfee
When making cuts, avoid slicing straight through the stem. “In the shrub, trace the branch to its root, and then make the cut from that point, ensuring it’s concealed,” he explains. “Once away from the shrub, you can trim the stem to a manageable size.”
Westall carries two essential tools: a pair of small, sharp shears for delicate stems and sturdy pruners for robust, woody branches. “The last thing you want to do is cause any lasting harm to the shrub you’re pruning,” he emphasizes, highlighting the significance of proper pruning equipment. He also suggests carrying a bucket of water to keep the fresh elements hydrated, particularly wildflowers, which are prone to wilting.
Westall encourages, “Always aim for abundance, even if it’s for a small vase, cut generously and trim as needed once indoors.” He also recommends seeking out foliage with movement or unique traits to enhance the arrangement’s appeal. “I believe it enriches the overall aesthetic,” he says. For larger arrangements, he advises including some more robust elements to form a solid base and structure. “I often choose pieces with a bit more branching than what you initially see, as the lower parts are typically tucked into the vase,” Westall adds.
For autumnal foliage in particular, Westall suggests waiting for the first touch of fall rain near the end of September. “At this point, the foliage is hydrated by the earth, making it the prime time for harvesting and cutting,” he notes. “Avoid picking after prolonged dry spells. Wait for a bit of precipitation or cooler nights, and the foliage will be ready to be plucked.”
