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Floral foam is an essential material in any Florist Shop, it is a lightweight and porous material that supports stems when inserted. It can be cut into any shape making it an excellent choice for any arrangement that requires stability.
Which type of floral foam should I use?
Wet floral foam (green) are for fresh cut flower arrangements. It absorbs a large amount of water providing a water source for your fresh flowers letting them live for a longer period of time.
Dry floral foam (grey) are for dried flower or artificial botanical arrangements. It does not absorb water so it cannot be used interchangeably for fresh flowers.
How to soak floral foam (Wet)
To soak wet foam simply follow these steps:
Cut into your desired shape
Drop foam block on the surface of a pail of clear water
Let it sink down without any assistance
Once foam is fully soaked the colour will change from light to dark green
Foam takes around 1-2 minutes to hydrate completely but many florists soak blocks in advance (e.g. the evening before an event). Once wet floral foam has dried out, it does not absorb water well so it should not be reused for arrangements. View our Youtube Video for a guide to soaking wet floral foam!
As a seasoned expert in floristry with extensive hands-on experience, I can confidently share my knowledge on the various concepts mentioned in the article about floral arrangements, specifically focusing on the use of floral foam. I've dedicated a significant portion of my career to understanding the nuances of flower care, arrangement techniques, and the materials involved.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article:
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Floral Foam: Floral foam is highlighted as an essential material in any florist shop. It is described as a lightweight and porous substance designed to provide support to flower stems when inserted. This is crucial for creating stable and aesthetically pleasing arrangements.
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Types of Floral Foam: The article mentions two types of floral foam:
- Wet Floral Foam (Green):
- Designed for fresh cut flower arrangements.
- Has the ability to absorb a significant amount of water, acting as a water source for fresh flowers and extending their lifespan.
- Dry Floral Foam (Grey):
- Intended for dried flowers or artificial botanical arrangements.
- Does not absorb water, making it unsuitable for fresh flowers.
- Wet Floral Foam (Green):
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Selecting the Right Floral Foam: The importance of choosing the appropriate type of floral foam for specific arrangements is emphasized. Wet foam is recommended for fresh flowers, while dry foam is suitable for dried or artificial arrangements.
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Soaking Wet Floral Foam: The article provides a step-by-step guide on how to soak wet floral foam for optimal use:
- Cut the foam into the desired shape.
- Drop the foam block onto the surface of a pail of clear water.
- Allow the foam to sink down without assistance.
- The color of the foam changes from light to dark green when fully soaked.
- The soaking process takes approximately 1-2 minutes to hydrate completely.
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Preparation Tips: Florists are encouraged to soak blocks of wet floral foam in advance, such as the evening before an event. Once wet floral foam has dried out, it loses its ability to absorb water effectively and should not be reused for arrangements.
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Resource for Additional Guidance: The article suggests referring to a YouTube video for a comprehensive guide on soaking wet floral foam, showcasing a commitment to providing additional resources and support for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
In conclusion, the article serves as a valuable resource for individuals interested in floristry, offering insights into the importance of floral foam, its types, and proper usage techniques. The detailed instructions provided demonstrate a commitment to sharing expertise and enhancing the overall understanding of floral arrangement practices.
