the strength and symbolism of flowers
As sunflower pictures, emojis, and seed packets appear everywhere in solidarity with Ukraine, we are reminded daily of the power of flowers as symbols. Especially at this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere when bulbs bloom, and trees burst forth in blossom. Puts us all in mind of winter’s end, new growth. Hope… Renewal… Solace… Gifting flowers is a powerful way to express care and concern, or to share joy. Or, in the case of Absolute Hero Ukrainian Grandma, to sow Resistance and Revenge.
🌻
And, as the Pandemic has not left, but only been pushed to levels where we seek to live with it, we have sent flowers to too many funerals in recognition and celebration of departed friends and consolation to their families.
Having a yard full of giving greens means that we can get something ready at a moment’s notice — for too many moments already this year. We add in store-bought blooms and do our best.
From even the most unexpected bunches and color combination, flowers just send their hope-filled message.
We’ll watch for droop and adjust a bit as flowers drink up water and move a bit— but just looking should lift hearts a bit! We are programmed that way.
A basket of long lived blooms to keep company in a sadly new turned soil.
So, henceforth, a refresher on flower arranging for all the many things for which flower power is wanted:
If you have the opportunity to plant, plant that which is useful for cutting— greens, perennials, or annuals that can take on a second use (thereby reducing the amount of floral material that is purchased from far away with a huge carbon footprint).
We have curly privet, Chesapeake holly, laurels, and other shrubs that stay evergreen and useful for most of the year. Unfortunately, at this time of year, we do have to rely on purchased blooms to fill out arrangements, but try to plant so that the rest of the year keeps this at a minimum.
Set up a protected work area.
Attach a waterproof container to receive soaked floral foam.
Cut greens and condition in a clean bucket (preferably cutting the day before use and allowing the greens to soak up water and harden off so they stay vibrant in an arrangement).
"Greening up” — filling most of an arrangement with cut greens minimizes the number of purchased blooms that have to be used to make a gorgeous, full arrangement. It also gives the desired shape to the floral piece, as well as sets proportions.
Divide and allot cut or purchased material for an all around arrangement or concentrate on one side, if for an altar or mantel (but always finish all the way around so that none of the “mechanics” show!).
Start with large elements and add in smaller, balancing shape and texture, and contrasting color elements.
Arrangement in a sturdy basket, with a waterproof bottom, filled with long-lasting blooms— almost ready to travel to brighten someone’s day!
