Design - it goes without saying that it's what floristry is all about. Because let's face it, if you can't cobble together a hand-tied that is pleasing on the eye, sales will more than likely be rather slow!

So, from the colour combinations you use to the flower selection you choose, great design is key to business success. Then, of course, you have to consider the shape, proportion, tone, texture, direction, line ... the list goes on. Add into the mix the latest trends, with influences from both home and abroad, and bingo, you have the building blocks of successful design.

Although the principles of design remain the same, tastes do change and to date not one florist has been a huge success without adapting to those changes - proving that design is the secret to enduring success.

Over the coming months in this section you can find out:

• How the basic principles of design can be applied in floristry
• What the latest trends are from across the world
• What the stars of the show were at the biggest trade events around the world
• What the most up-to-date seasonal trends are
• How plants can be trendy and have real design appeal