Helpful Floral Arranging Tips

“Mimic the randomness of nature.”

 

• Leaves should always be above the water line of the vase to extend the life of the flower arrangement.

 

• Stems can be cut at a 45-degree angle to increase surface area to allow for maximum water uptake.

 

• Start by crossing stems of foliage to create a base for your flowers to nestle into. The foliage can lean on the lip of the vase to create a basic shape for the arrangement.

 

• Add several focal flowers, cut at different lengths so some blooms are low and others extend. Crisscrossing the stems in the vase works to create a webbing, so the arrangement holds its shape.

 

• Weave in smaller flowers, vines, and other wispy elements to create gestures throughout the arrangement.

 

• To mimic nature, think of asymmetry, odd numbers, and varied depth and height when arranging.

 

• Change the water every other day or so, or when it gets murky. If you wouldn’t drink it, imagine how the flowers feel!

 

• Don’t be afraid to start over! We are engaging in low-level risk taking.

 

• The life of each flower variety varies, and some die quickly while others last for a week. Remove dying flowers and replace with clippings from the yard or your daily walk to extend the life of the arrangement.

 

• Keep flowers out of direct sunlight and off of warm radiators.