Tropical Flower Arrangements

Tropical Flower Arrangements

Warm tropical breezes, sunshine, turquoise blue water and the scent of sweet flowers—the romance and beauty of Hawaii is treasured all over the world. What better way to bring aloha indoors than by creating eye-catching flower arrangements? Welcome your guests with a striking display of heliconia, anthurium, ginger or dendrobium orchids along with plenty of greenery. Hawaiian flowers last a long time, so are perfect to adorn your home or office.

The art of flower arrangement began in the East, and supposedly the Chinese were the first to put cut flowers into a container with water. The Japanese people have also created their own form of design as a meditative practice. Hawaii’s myriad selection of beautiful flowers and greenery beg us to create our own indoor floral atmosphere.

Here are a few tips to consider when creating your artistic display.

• Before you begin selecting flowers, consider where your arrangement will be placed. Choose sizes and colors that will complement their location.

• Prepare your vase and flowers. Presoak some floral foam, if you will be using it, and cut your flower and leaf stems on a 45-degree angle with a sharp knife or scissors. Some florists recommend cutting the stems under running water.
  

• You can use floral tape to create a grid over the opening of the vase to support your stems.

• When you are ready to begin arranging, start with the flowers that will create the main shape and focal point.

• Allocate each flower its own space in the arrangement and don’t overcrowd the vase.
  

• Balance your colors and shapes into a pleasing arrangement.
  

• If you are just a beginner at flower arrangement, a good rule of thumb is to use an odd number of flowers for the basic composition. Then build on this with a variety of shapes and contrasting textures. The natural curves and bends in the foliage and flowers will help you to create a harmonious piece.

Properly cared for, your Hawaiian tropical flower arrangement can last up to 2 or even 3 weeks. To extend its life, keep it between 65 and 80 degrees F. Change the water and re-cut the stems every other day. Avoid placing the flowers in direct sunlight, close to heat sources or in a draft. Enjoy your beautiful results, and take pride in your accomplishment!