With beautiful buds popping up everywhere, it's the perfect time to bring a splash of color to your tables with a freshly arranged bouquet. But don't let spring's bounty pass you by just because you're not skilled in the art of flower arranging. With a few simple steps, you can take a store-bought or backyard plucked bunch and transform it into an elegant arrangement that would impress any pro.
Find your floral inspiration
Bring your artistic eye to an outdoor mart or supermarket to start the search for fresh flowers and greens. Long-lasting picks like Chrysanthemums and Proteas will ensure that your hard work doesn't wind up in the garbage the next day. Don't be afraid to hunt for prospects in your backyard or a local park; you may find unexpected inspiration in some unassuming wildflowers. Color mixing can be tricky, so beginners will want to stick to a few colors or even go for a monochromatic look.
Various Vases
The vase can completely transform the look of an arrangement, so choose carefully. While glass vessels are always a favorite, try one that's tinted or opaque to complement the flowers and conceal stems. A tall, narrow-lipped vase will keep your bunch together and be easiest to work with, while a small, footed urn is perfect for creating an understated centerpiece.
Ready the Stems
Start by clearing stems of all leaves except those at the very top. Clip stems on an angle with a pair of sharp garden clippers to prevent cracking. Hard stem flowers will soak up more water if you scrape the top layer off of their stems and split the ends. The buds may need a little loving, too; try folding back pedals on common flowers like tulips for a more exotic look.
Creative Combos
Start your masterpiece with some hearty greens, which will provide structure and support for the flowers. Next, weave in your large blooms snipped to different lengths to provide an ample range of heights. To avoid a spotty look, group together flowers of the same type in clusters. Finally, add wispy elements like vines or ferns to soften the collection and fill in empty spaces.
Keep it together
A floral arranger's number one nightmare is flowers that flop around the vase. While glass and ceramic “flower frogs” will keep them from straying, you can also use items you already have at home. Clear rubber bands right at the water level get the job done, while waterproof tape can help by creating a grid over the top of the vase.
Perfectly Imperfect
Pop your creation onto a lazy Susan to make sure it looks gorgeous from every angle, but don't sweat getting it exactly right; imperfections add to the beauty of floral arrangements, and a wilder, organic look is so in right now. An asymmetrical shape which leans on the lip of the vase will please the eye, and even a little wilt can add elegance among sprightly greens.
Preserving the Pretty
Keep your buds happy by changing the water often and removing any foliage that falls below the water line to avoid rot. If you don't have flower food stashed in your cabinet, a few drops of bleach make a great alternative by keeping the bacteria at bay. A little bit of cooking spray on tropical flowers like Heliconia will make them last longer. Pop your vase in the perfect place for display and enjoy your creation—just be prepared for friends to inquire about which florist you used!
