10 Top Tips for Beautiful, Lasting Floral Arrangements

by Karin Bennett

     A floral arrangement can add color and vibrancy to any area of your home. Have a dull spot in your living room? Flowers. Want a pop of color on your bedside table? Flowers. Need something pretty to look at while you have your morning coffee? FLOWERS. They may be small but they make a huge statement! So here are 10 tips and tricks from our store Designer, Sheila, for beautiful and lasting floral arrangements.

  1. If you’re cutting fresh flowers, always make sure you cut below the first healthy leaf. This ensures the plant has enough nutrients from the stem to last longer. Also, make sure to cut them diagonally instead of straight. (see fig. 1)
  2. Take off all leaves before placing in water. Leaves will rot in water, which wouldn’t make for a very pleasant smelling arrangement…
  3. Put the flowers in water as soon as you can. Fill a bucket/vase with tepid water, add some floral preservative then add your flowers.
  4. Cut an inch off the stems using a sharp knife, especially if the flowers will sit a while before being arranged. This fresh cut will help the stems absorb the water better.
  5. Warm water helps tightly closed flower heads (such as roses) to open fully. It also helps to leave them on water for a few hours before using. Use florist foam to keep flowers in place and keep constantly hydrated so they last longer.
  6. Use florist foam to keep flowers in place and keep constantly hydrated so they last longer. Soak the foam for 15 minutes before cutting it to fit the container. Water the foam every couple of days. (see fig. 2)
  7. Use a fun vase such as a basket or even a teapot to add style! (see fig. 3) 
  8. When arranging, use the larger, heavier flowers first, turning the container as you work to ensure even placement on all sides. Fill in with smaller blooms, leaving enough space between the stems so that individual flowers have room to shine. Include flowers with different shapes and stem lengths.
  9. Keep the arrangement away from direct sunlight and air conditioning vents. Re-cut the stems and add water often.
  10. Finally, to cut costs, buy a few flowers from the florist and then add greenery from your own garden!

 

        

 Fig. 1                                Fig. 2                                 Fig. 3

 Fresh Cut Florals             Florist Foam                      Teapot Vase                                             

 

 Good luck arranging!

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