How To Put Flowers In A Vase: 7 Top Tips

How to put flowers in a vase - 7 tips

1. Choose your flowers

The best way to start is by deciding on a colour scheme and the type of flowers you would like to include in your bouquet. Depending on your taste, there are many different colour schemes you can choose from. Using a colour scheme, simply pick your favourite flowers. Some ideas include:

• Monochromatic schemes: This is a one-colour scheme that uses flowers of different shades within one colour.

• Complementary arrangements: These arrangements are made with two colours that are opposites on the colour wheel, but that are still complementary. For example, yellow and purple.

• Split complementary: Choose one colour from one side of the colour wheel and two from the other side to create a bright and beautiful bouquet. This could include pink, orange and green.

• Analogous: Select three colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel. For example, a good combination could include blues and shades of purple.

2. Pick a vase

The next step is to pick a vase that will complement your flowers. There are many different shapes and sizes you can select - the choice is yours! If you’re looking at creating a bright flower arrangement, we recommend opting for a subtle shaded vase. Or if you’re creating a neutral flower arrangement, you could choose a brightly coloured vase.

At BloomBar we have a variety of different vases to choose from. You can select one online or browse in-store. If you’re unsure, our friendly florists are always happy to assist.

For more information: Flower and gift delivery

3. Prepare your flowers

Before arranging your flowers in the vase, you will need to prepare them first to help them last longer. We recommend removing any leaves, thornes, flower buds or any damaged petals that may be carrying bacteria.  You will then need to cut your flower stems according to the height of your vase, ideally so they are no more than two times the length of the vase. Make sure to cut the stems diagonally and place them in a bucket of water before arranging.

4. Prepare the vase

To ensure your flowers sit upright and in the position you want them to, it’s important to prepare your vase. Fill your vase up to ¾ of its height with fresh cool water and make sure the vase is thoroughly cleaned before placing in your flowers. You can maintain the flowers' freshness by regularly recutting the stems and refreshing them with water.

5. Add greenery as a base

This is an optional step, however we recommend using some greenery for more dimension. There are many types of greenery you can add, for example ruscus, blue gum, magnolia and viburnum foliages. Cut the stems of your greenery and evenly distribute them in a circular direction around the vase. You can even use more than one type of greenery for different textures.

6. Add the filler flowers

Add the smaller and subtle toned flowers into the vase first. These help to fill the arrangement and add unique texture and fullness around the centrepiece flowers. Make sure to add groups of filler flowers evenly around the vase. Some flowers that are great as fillers include:

• Gypsophila
• Geraldton wax
• Chamomile
• Andromeda
• Thryptomene

7. Add the centrepiece flowers

Now for the fun part - adding the centrepiece flowers! These are often the largest and most impressive flowers with unique colours and texture. These flowers help your arrangement look complete. To make your arrangement appear more natural, add the focal flowers in odd numbers. Some inspiration for centrepiece flowers include:

• Roses
• Chrysanthemums disbuds
• Orchids
• Anthuriums
• Delphiniums

How to make flowers last longer in a vase

Now that you’ve created your floral arrangement, it’s important you know how to care for fresh flowers. Our team of florists has a few tips and tricks to making your fresh blooms last:

• Choose fresh flowers: Make sure you choose the freshest flowers in store. The team at BloomBar only offers the freshest seasonal blooms.

• Prepare the flowers: As mentioned earlier, you will need to trim the stems and remove any damaged petals, thornes, leaves and buds.

• Cut the stems: Make sure you re-cut the stems before putting them into a vase of water. Continue doing this every second day with a refresh of cool water.

• Change water regularly: To maintain your arrangement, make sure to change the water regularly. Use fresh cool water and replace this every 2 to 3 days.

• Spray the petals: If you have hydrangeas, another great tip is to keep a spray bottle of water handy to freshen up the petals. However, avoid doing this with any other type of flower as it can make the flowers mouldy.

• Keep them in a cool spot: Make sure to keep your flowers in a cool area, away from any direct sunlight. You can even keep your flowers in the fridge before arranging them into the vase.

Create the perfect floral arrangement with flowers from BloomBar

Now that you know how to put flowers in a vase, there’s no better time to pick some fresh flowers from BloomBar. At BloomBar, our experienced team of florists will help you pick the perfect blooms for any arrangement. We even stock a variety of bouquets for every taste! From everlasting flowers and pastel bouquets to native flower bouquets and more! If you’re looking to make your own flower arrangement or have any other enquiries, please contact City store or Marion store today.

How to put flowers in a vase: FAQs

How long do fresh flowers last?

Fresh flowers typically last around a week, however if they are properly cared for they can last from 7 to 12 days.

Should you put sugar in flower water?

This is a myth and can actually create bacteria amongst the flowers. Instead, use fresh water and maintain the flowers by replenishing the water and re-cutting the stems every two days.

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