I like to use the dark emerald greens of Missouri cedars during winter, their dense, shadowed foliage mimicking the high-contrast drama of snowy landscapes. The deep tones form a rich backdrop that makes white, large-faced florals—like roses or large faced mums—appear almost luminous. Emphasizing texture and scale while keeping the arrangements grounded, natural, and quietly dramatic. I also really enjoy using seed pods from the fall. Seed pods are very interesting and add great detailed texture. They offer a sculptural contrast to softer blooms and can carry color. Look for poppy pods with their rounded crowns, lotus pods with striking honeycomb patterns, and milkweed pods that split open to reveal silky floss. Each brings a unique tactile quality to arrangements. Collecting and air-drying these pods preserves their shape and adds long-lasting, garden-harvested interest to designs.