Flower arranging secrets

While some might say that flower arranging is not rocket science, it does require a certain knack and eye for detail. Even a bouquet that does not seem to be in any way asymmetrical is balanced in its own special way. Here are some essentials to keep in mind when arranging blooms.

Flower and foliage selection

When choosing the right flowers and greenery, make sure that you select a variety. Seasonal flowers and foliage are usually best because they last longer and they are cheaper. You can select three or four types of flowers along with about two different types of foliage. In total, you should aim for about six types of stems (foliage and flowers).

Mix and match

When selecting your flowers and foliage, you should look for contrasts in the colour and texture. That way when you get down to flower arranging, your bouquet will take on a fabulous look with the variations throughout its design. You don’t want it to look monotonous and boring. You want it to really grab your attention and draw you in with the various beautiful aspects of the design.

Consider the size

When choosing flowers and foliage, you need to consider the size of the bouquet that you want to create. In other words, you need to think about the size of the vase in order to determine how many stems you need as well as the height of the bouquet. Shorter vases hold shorter stems and taller vases are designed for taller stems.

Essential supplies

Before you begin, you will need to make sure that you have all the necessary flower arranging supplies. This includes you flowers, foliage, a vase, a pair of scissors and floral tape. Floral tape and wire can be used to reinforce stems and also to help hold your arrangement in place. If you are creating a handheld bouquet, you can use tape and wire to create a handle with the stems.

Prepare your flowers

Prepare your stems by trimming them at an angle. You will also need to prepare your vase by making sure that it is clean before adding fresh water. You should also add some flower food to keep your blooms happy and slow bacterial growth in the water.

Time for flower arranging

Now it’s time to arrange a fabulous bouquet! Start with the foliage and create clusters of three stems. Add them here and there while leaving spaces in between. Now add your larger focal blooms in the same way. Create clusters of filler flowers and add these in between. Finally, fill any large gaps with some foliage.

With these basic tips in mind, you too can show off some professional flower arranging talent! If you are ever unsure about colour combinations, make sure that you have a colour wheel handy and don’t be afraid to look for pictures of flowers online for inspiration.