Topic: Flower Facts
Wrapping flower arrangements
Arrangements benefit from being gift wrapped, as this protects them from extremes of temperature and helps to preserve an atmosphere of high humidity, so that flowers Lane Cove West arrive at their destination at the peak of perfection. In addition, the perceived value of a gift-wrapped arrangement is greater than the actual outlay for sundries, and this is good, both for the florist and for the purchaser.
There are many ways of gift wrapping, or ‘gifting’, flower designs, and the simple methods discussed here uses a good quality cellophane, with ample thickness to enable it to stand by itself. Cut a generous amount of cellophane, and bring the ends up to join at the top of the arrangement. Scrunch them together, and fasten with sticky tape. The open sides of the cellophane are brought together and joined with sticky tape.
Underneath the arrangement, the cellophane can he pleated around the container where necessary, and again fixed with sticky tape, to make handling easier.
The design is completed with a harmonizing ribbon bow.
Moluccella (bells of Ireland)
Characteristics: Bells of Ireland produce pale green shell-like bracts that resemble small bells. Tucked deeply into each bract are tiny, white, fragrant flowers. It is grown primarily for its lovely ornamental 2- to 3-foot spikes covered with the apple-green bracts. These spikes can be purchased from Devonport florists and used in fresh or dried arrangements.
Cultural Information: Bells of Ireland require good drainage and average soil. Seed germination is slow and unreliable; it is often necessary to chill seed in the refrigerator, then soak it overnight in warm water to soften and remove the hard seed coat. Do not cover seeds because they need light to germinate.
Harvesting/Drying: The tiny white flowers appear in late summer. Harvest when the bells have become firm to the touch (about 7 to 10 days after they appear). Remove the lower foliage before drying. Tie small bunches together to air-dry. The bells will turn straw color when dry. Salvage any fallen bells for potpourri or tiny arrangements. Glycerine can also be used to dry.
Methods for Drying Flowers
In earlier, more romantic days, a single flower was placed between the pages of a book or bible to preserve its beauty. Even scientists used heavy books to carry home new and unusual plant material for study. Drying methods have since become more advanced, and today we have a variety of ways to preserve flowers and retain much of their natural beauty. This is important, since Coleshill flower delivery has become so popular and flower preservation is in rising demand. The six basic methods of preserving flowers and foliage are air-drying, water-drying, drying in a microwave oven, using desiccants, preserving in glycerine, and pressing. Each method has its advantages and its disadvantages and some methods are better for some plants than for others. For example, foliage dries best if preserved in glycerine. Air-drying is the simplest method. And when the desiccation method is used, flowers retain their natural color and shape (indeed, they're often mistaken for fresh flowers). Serious flower driers use all the basic methods, alone and in combination.
Coloring Florals
Painting is the simplest method of coloring silk and dried floral materials. Spray paints specially developed for this purpose are available in a variety of colors from Beswick florists. Use them outside or in a well-ventilated area. Begin with a light misting of paint, holding the flower 6”-7” away from the nozzle; by misting lightly, more paint can be added if a darker tone is desired. Let the flower dry, then repeat until the desired coverage is attained. Lightly spraying several shades of a color produces a more natural colorization.
Another spray product used to enhance florals is walnut wood tone glossy spray stain by Design Master. Spraying a wood stain over flowers may sound strange, but this product is formulated to be used on fresh and silk flowers and is effective in toning down bright colors. When sprayed lightly over permanent florals, it adds depth and varies the coloration of the fabric. In a well-ventilated area, hold the flower 8”-10” away from the nozzle and spray lightly. When the flower is dry, turn it over and lightly spray the backs of the petals.
Best loved flowers - Calamintha nepetoides (beautiful mint)
Characteristics: Unlike its cousins in the mint family, this attractive plant will not become invasive in the garden. It has pretty, thymelike, lavender-colored flowers Larchmont that bloom from summer well into autumn. The flowers grow in clusters along the entire stem. Plant it next to a pathway or on a terrace, so its lovely minty fragrance can be close by. The strong, erect stems make it great for airdrying.
Cultural Information: Like most members of the mint family, calamintha prefers full sun and proper drainage. Although marginally hardy, it has survived many a winter in my garden.
Harvesting/Drying: Pick the flowers when they are just beginning to open. Dry them by hanging them in small bunches in a warm, dark spot. The beauty of this tiny treasure is as much the long-lasting minty fragrance as it is the lovely, delicate flowers.
Flowers of the world - Limonium suworowii (poker statice)
Characteristics: Limonium suworowii is an outstanding addition to borders. Striking pink flowers cover gracefully curved spikes. This unique plant has a twisted appearance, which adds interest both to gardens and to arrangements, and is also a wonderful gift if you would like to send flowers Hamilton to someone for a special occasion.
Cultural Information: Sow the seeds in full sun in average, well-drained soil.
Harvesting/Drying: Statice flowers appear mid- to late summer. Cut bunches before all the blossoms have opened fully. Hang to air-dry. The strong stems don't need the additional support of wire.
Methods: Air-dry, water-dry, silica
Gloxinia and Smithiantha Bulbs
In the fourth category of bulbs are two of the most beautiful and popular varieties selected for Yew Tree flower delivery, the gloxinia and the smithiantha, or temple bells. Since these are of tropical origin, they are grown as house plants the year round everywhere in the United States. The gloxinia, happily, can be brought into bloom at virtually any time of the year and is ideal for winter culture. The process takes from two to four months from potting to flowering, since the period of dormancy of one bulb is not always the same as another. So, to be sure of having Christmas color, plant gloxinia bulbs in late summer. The smithiantha starts flowering in summer but continues to bloom well into winter. Growing instructions are simple and are given in flower encyclopedias.
Wedding Reception Decor
Some suggestions for reception decorations to add to your floral arrangements are:
- Floating candle bowls with flowers you have in your bouquet floating alongside the candles.
- Candelabras wrapped in ivy or jasmine with flowers scattered throughout or bunched at the base.
- Vases filled with your favourite flowers Penarth can be beautiful
- Rose petals scattered over table tops are a cost effective option.
- Add stems of your favourite flower to the back of each chair
There are lots of other ways to spruce up your venue such as a vase containing smooth stone or glass pebbles, water and a candle (sounds good hey?) plus flowers of choice, sitting on top of a mirror. The candlelight will reflect from the mirror and be a constant talking point for your guests.
Floral heads on your big day
Consider incorporating flowers into your bridesmaids’ hair as well as your own. Instead of carrying a traditional bouquet, have your maids or matrons don a headdress of fresh flowers that match your theme and colors. Many brides have used this option and found the results are simply stunning. Also, do not forget your flower girl when planning flower decorated hairstyles. Often, young girls wear a halo of blooms in addition to carrying a basket of petals. Don’t forget to include the flowers for everyone in your flower delivery Pleasant Plains to ensure a stress free day.
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