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Stem By Stem Think fresh, colorful and fast - here's how to piece together the perfect bouquet in 10 minutes  Image courtesy istockphoto The art of flower arranging may be a little advanced for a first-time florist, but follow the advice of flower gurus to help you transform those wilting weepers to blossoming blooms in no time flat. First and foremost, you need to search out the freshest flowers, says Leanne Kesler, president of the Floral Design Institute, Portland, Ore. Choosing the right flowers means finding the firmest and freshest buds, like how you would choose produce - a flower bud should be as firm as a head of lettuce. One of the biggest mistakes amateur florists make is not re-cutting the stems. "It's best to cut with a sharp knife, but scissors will do," Kesler says. "Cut on an angle to keep it from creating a suction at the bottom of the vase." When you begin your arrangement start from the outer parameter and work your way in to create a more centered and balanced design, Kesler says. Rebecca Henry, of Petal's Edge Floral Design, Alexandria, Va., recommends keeping your design to one theme. "Do all warm colors like reds, yellows or oranges, or all cool colors like purples, greens and blues, or pick shades of a color from light to dark," Henry says. "Using two contrasting colors like purple and orange can end up with something resembling school colors." Experts also suggest sticking to mono-botanical bouquets to create a clean, unified look. One basic mistake many beginner florists make is not using enough flowers, Henry says. The more flowers you use, the closer you'll get to a round, perfect dome. To keep your arrangements as fresh as possible, make sure to add flower food to your arrangement and change the water every two to three days. "Keep your water bacteria free as long as possible," Kesler says. "Use warm, fresh water, flower food, or even a half a teaspoon of bleach." Fill a vase to the top, and place the stems as close to the bottom as possible. If you're working with a foam arrangement fill the sink with warm water, mix food in and set the foam into the sink. "Letting the foam sink naturally allows for solid saturation with no air pockets," Kesler says. Place the stems in at least 2 inches deep and add water to the top of the foam every few days. Bostonian Steve Rittner, of Rittners School of Floral Design, recommends keeping your bouquets away from any excessive heat like heating vents or stoves. He also suggests using citrus fruit in your water, or even fruit or vegetables wired on a kabob to create a unique look. "Flowers can be integrated with all kinds of gift items, as well," Rittner says. "They are lovely accessories." |
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