The Cincinnati Flower Show, presented by Provident Bank, opens 11 a.m. today at Coney Island. About 65,000 people are expected to attend the show, which runs through Sunday.

Today's lecture: "Twelve Principles of Design" by author and TV gardening guru P. Allen Smith. Moonlite Pavilion, $20, includes show admission.

Ask the Expert topics: 11 a.m., roses; 1 p.m., rose panel; 3 p.m., water gardening; 4 p.m., plants for a small garden. Tent by Gate 2. Free.

Information: 872-5194; Web site.

Cincinnati Flower Show, presented by Provident Bank, at Coney Island, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. today, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Adults $16, children 3-12 $3. 872-5194; www.cincyflowershow.com.

Today's tip

Anything can be a container for a bouquet. Bring your container and learn tricks from a professional flower designer at a workshop 10 a.m. Saturday at the Cincinnati Flower Show at Coney Island. It's free (even the flowers) with show admission.

Today's tip: A garden clog looks great - but almost any shoe would work - as a bouquet container. Fill the shoe with moistened florists foam (available at florists, garden centers and crafts stores). Place taller flowers first, then fill in with shorter flowers and greenery included in the bouquet. Wired ribbon makes a great bow. Use floral wire (or a twist tie) to attach the bow to a sturdy flower stem.

- Cyndy Duade, Cincinnati Horticultural Society