The most compelling arrangements emerge when we understand traditions. Flower arranging is a rich tradition that spans cultures and centuries, with each style reflecting the values, aesthetics, and philosophies of its origin. From the minimalist precision of Japanese ikebana to the abundant exuberance of English garden arrangements, these distinct approaches offer different ways to celebrate … Continue reading Flower arrangement styles
creativity and development
Arranging flowers – using an urn
Elevating flower arranging from casual decoration to a serious design statement. The urn stands apart from other vessel types as the most architecturally significant and historically resonant container in flower arranging, bringing an immediate sense of formality, elegance, and classical grandeur to any arrangement it holds. Unlike simple cylinders or bowls that serve primarily as … Continue reading Arranging flowers – using an urn
Extending the vase life of our flower arrangements
Giving our flower arrangements the best possible chance to flourish. The work of flower arranging doesn't end when we step back to admire our finished design. Proper ongoing care determines whether our arrangement lasts three days or three weeks. Many people assume that once flowers are arranged, there's little they can do to influence longevity, … Continue reading Extending the vase life of our flower arrangements
Flower arranging proportion & scale
Creating visual harmony. Proportion and scale are the secret ingredients that separate amateur flower arrangements from professional-looking designs. While color and flower selection often get the most attention, getting the proportions right is what makes an arrangement feel balanced, intentional, and visually pleasing. An arrangement that's too tall for its vase looks top-heavy and unstable, … Continue reading Flower arranging proportion & scale
Troubleshooting common flower arrangement problems
Embracing the troubleshooting process as part of our flower arranging learning journey. Even experienced flower arrangers encounter problems like wilting stems, arrangements that won't hold their shape, flowers that brown prematurely, or designs that simply don't look right despite our best efforts. The difference between frustration and success often lies in knowing how to diagnose … Continue reading Troubleshooting common flower arrangement problems
Blessings
What is a blessing? At its core, a blessing is an intentional act of invoking good. It is a conscious direction of positive energy, divine favor, or heartfelt goodwill toward a person, place, object, or situation. It is more than a kind word. A blessing is a declaration of worth, a recognition that something or … Continue reading Blessings
Callings
Wild Geese by Mary Oliver You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. … Continue reading Callings
Special occasion flower arrangements
Approaching special occasion flower arranging with the humility and respect these significant moments deserve. Flower arranging for special occasions represents a distinct and elevated practice within the broader world of floral design, where arrangements transcend their everyday decorative function to become integral elements of celebration, ceremony, and meaningful life events that mark time, honor relationships, … Continue reading Special occasion flower arrangements
Essential flower arranging tools and supplies
Flower arrangement tools to best serve our creativity. Having the right tools and supplies transforms flower arranging from a frustrating struggle into an enjoyable, efficient creative process. While it's tempting to make do with whatever kitchen scissors or random containers we have on hand, investing in proper floral tools makes an enormous difference in both … Continue reading Essential flower arranging tools and supplies
Seed starting
March-April zone 4b seeds to start indoor Head Lettuce Egg Plant Celery Cabbage Cauliflower Broccoli Today is the day for me to get these started. Today I am also starting some Asparagus seeds. Starting asparagus from seeds Soak seeds in tepid water for 24 hours to improve germination time Plant 3 seeds in each peat … Continue reading Seed starting