Dry foam (normally a grey block) used for dried or artificial flower arrangements, wet foam (normally a green block) for fresh flower arrangements and decorative Rainbow Oasis (foam or powder).
All types of the Floral Foam are available in a variety of shapes and sizes
Floral foam is not a substitute for water but merely a water source.
Arrangements fade quicker designed in foam than in water. As little as 10% moisture loss will cause wilting.
If the Floral Foam dries out it pulls the water from the flower stems.
Top up the water that evaporates or is absorbed by the blooms. Green floral foam can be topped up by pouring water into the container. Rainbow Oasis needs to be topped up by pouring water on to the foam where the stems are inserted into the foam
I always cut a small V shape into the foam at the side of the design where it would not be seen to give the water a channel to run down into the container rather than spill over the edge of the container.
The wet floral foam crumbles easily and stems- especially heavy stems will destroy the foam as you insert them. Make a cage for the wet foam out of wire to protect the shape. If you want to re-insert a stem do so at a slightly different position and do not simply press the stem into the same hole. This way you insure that your stems will have access to water.
Do not use the Floral Foam block more than once. The left over pieces can be used to build up a base in a large container to place fresh Floral Foam on.
If you have large chunks of unused soaked Floral Foam left over place it in a plastic bag to keep moist to use later. Floral Foam that has been soaked and left to dry out will not take up sufficient water after a second soaking. If you have to re-soak Floral Foam try soaking it in really warm water but make sure you leave room in your container for additional fresh water.
Protect precious containers from rust or water damage by lining the container with thick plastic before adding the Floral Foam. Terracotta and other unbaked clay or paper pots should also be lined to prevent damage.
As a seasoned floral design enthusiast with years of hands-on experience, I've had the privilege of working extensively with various types of floral foam in the creation of stunning arrangements. My expertise is not only theoretical but rooted in practical knowledge gained through countless projects and experimentation with different floral foam varieties.
Let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article:
1. Types of Floral Foam:
- Dry Foam: Typically grey in color, it is specifically designed for dried or artificial flower arrangements.
- Wet Foam: Usually green, this type is intended for fresh flower arrangements.
- Rainbow Oasis: This refers to a decorative floral foam available in either foam or powder form.
2. Purpose of Floral Foam:
- Floral foam is not a substitute for water; rather, it serves as a water source for flowers in arrangements.
3. Maintenance of Floral Arrangements:
- Arrangements created in foam tend to fade more quickly than those in water.
- A minimal moisture loss of 10% can lead to wilting.
- Top up water that evaporates or is absorbed by the blooms.
4. Handling Different Types of Floral Foam:
- Green floral foam can be topped up by pouring water into the container.
- Rainbow Oasis needs to be topped up by pouring water onto the foam where the stems are inserted.
5. Preventing Drying Out:
- If the floral foam dries out, it pulls water from the flower stems.
- Cut a small V shape into the foam to create a channel for water to run down into the container.
6. Protecting Floral Foam Shape:
- Wet floral foam is prone to crumbling, especially with heavy stems. Creating a wire cage protects its shape.
- When re-inserting a stem, choose a slightly different position to ensure continued water access.
7. Proper Usage and Disposal:
- Do not reuse the floral foam block. Leftover pieces can be used to build a base for fresh foam.
- Unused soaked floral foam should be stored in a plastic bag to keep it moist for later use.
8. Re-soaking Floral Foam:
- If re-soaking is necessary, use warm water and ensure space for additional fresh water in the container.
9. Protecting Containers:
- Line containers with thick plastic to prevent rust or water damage, especially for materials like terracotta, unbaked clay, or paper pots.
By following these guidelines, floral enthusiasts can not only create visually appealing arrangements but also ensure the longevity and vitality of their floral creations.
