In Home Style Tips

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - final flat

We all agree that cut flowers in vases bring a room to life whether it is a kitchen or a bedroom. But they don’t last long, do they? There’s an easier way (and it’s not fake flowers).

Sometimes it’s best to seek the advice of the experts. Florist Tracy Bell, from Flower Lodge, is used to sharing useful advice and style tips on flower care and design.

You will learn how to create the perfect — and durable — posy table arrangement. And enjoy fresh flowers in your home for longer!

Why you need more flowers in your life

Plants and flowers are a vital decorative element. They create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere as soon as you walk into a room. We associate greenery and flowers with positive feelings. And whereas potted plants are more of a permanent feature, flowers allow for seasonal variations.

A gorgeous way to enjoy fresh flowers is to create a posy table arrangement. And not just for special events but for everyday life. The choice of flowers, size and design can accommodate every occasion or mood. From romantic decadence to Scandinavian wilderness.

I’ve never created a flower design before, let alone a table arrangement. There’s no need to panic, though. We have Tracy to guide us by the hand — with a pair of scissors in the other one. She introduced me to the wonders of floral foam, such as Oasis.

5 Tips for using floral foam the right way

Oasis is the most popular floral wet foam brand. They come in blocks of many shapes that absorb and keep water for a long time. The foam provides both stability to the arrangement and water to feed the flowers.

It’s a low maintenance solution and, according to Oasis, flowers last longer in foam than in a vase. I’m sold. Plus it makes it so easy to arrange flowers and allow for creative displays. Here are five tips to get it right the first time:

  1. Soak the foam block in a bucket of water. Never soak it under the tap.
  2. Make sure the foam is at least one inch higher than the rim of the bowl.
  3. The bottom of the flower stems should be in contact with the foam.
  4. Use florist’s tape to fix the block to the bowl as it’s stronger than regular tape.
  5. Don’t reuse foam. Use only what you need to avoid waste.

How to make a posy table arrangement

Tracy was kind enough to invite me to one of her popular floral design workshops. Today, I’m sharing her best tips and tricks to create a beautiful flower arrangement for your table. This design incorporates unusual flower varieties and wild foliage — think Secret Garden style. Let the botanical feast begin!

You will need the following items:

  • Oasis round bowl
  • Oasis foam block
  • Florist’s tape
  • Floral snips
  • Assorted flowers
  • Assorted foliage

Step 1. Prepare the base

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - oasis foam

Make sure you are familiar with Tracy’s floral foam tips above. The good news is that you don’t need a whole foam block, just one piece. Cut a third with a knife following the convenient mark on the foam. That’s all you need.

Now it’s time to find a container. Oasis manufactures small round bowls specifically designed for table arrangements. The perfect match. Place the small foam block you cut, so it sits upright on the bowl. Secure it with florist tape taping around it from top to bottom.

Step 2. Green up with foliage

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - leather leaf

The purpose of foliage is to provide a backdrop for the flowers to stand out, add shape and hide the foam. It’s best to use a selection with various colours, shapes, sizes and textures. For the Secret Garden design, I’m using: leather leaf, pistache, pittosporum, ruscus, eucalyptus (“Baby Blue” variety) and ivy.

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - greening up

Start with the leather leaf and then continue in order. All you need to do is to cut sections of each branch and stick them to the foam. The key is to imagine the foam as a three-storey building. Use bigger and longer leaves in the lower level and reduce the size of the foliage as you go up. Angle the pieces in with a slight spill to create height and disguise the bowl.

Step 3. Introduce the star flowers

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - star flowers

This is where it gets interesting. The main flowers in this design are “Fifth Avenue” roses, “Hypnosis” carnations and white oriental lilies. Arrange them in a way so they complement each other instead of fighting for attention. A little trick is to stick them in groups of three following a triangular shape.

STYLE TIP: When creating a floral arrangement consider the colour transitions from one flower to the next. Use different heights and shapes to add depth and interest.

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - triangle

Have a look at the photo above. See how all the flower varieties are in threes? And each group forms a little triangle. The colours of this arrangement play with monochromatic shades of pink and lilac. Think how you place them together to create a cohesive colour scheme. From darker flowers to lighter ones.

Step 4. Layer with filler flowers

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - final flat

The main job is done! — but don’t tap yourself on the back yet. The last step involves filling in the gaps with smaller flowers. I’m using green lisianthus, eryngium, bupleurum and waxflower. Pick different stem heights to add depth and texture. It doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, that loose and wild look is ideal.

Remember the three-storey building analogy? Apply the same principle to arrange the filler flowers, covering all levels to create interest. Aim for “organic asymmetry,” making sure that flowers face all directions. Finally, if you can still see foam, fill the gaps with foliage scraps.

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - final

I have a little confession to make. I photographed Tracy’s own posy for the final reveal for two reasons. One, there was still daylight. And two, just look at it! She has the magic touch. All the previous steps show my very own floral arrangement I proudly display on my kitchen table.

How to care for your flower centrepiece

Once your beautiful arrangement is finished and on display, it should last for a week. It’s best to place it in a cool location, away from direct sunlight or heating sources. Otherwise, the flowers may wilt faster.

Don’t forget to water the foam every other day. Pour half a cup of water over the foam block. If the weather is warmer, you may have to do it daily. It must never dry out, or the block will suck water from the flowers.

Visit Flower Lodge of Cardiff

How to make a lush posy table arrangement like a florist - Tracy

Sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone is what you need to discover a new passion. Maybe you’re like me and thought “oh yeah, flowers, pop them in a vase and that’s that.” Well, now we know a new way to display flowers creatively.

Why don’t you try it yourself? Check Tracy’s workshop calendar and give it a go. Visit Flower Lodge to understand why it’s Cardiff’s most instagrammable shop. Vintage shop front, colourful location and Baxter — the most handsome dog ever.

 

A post shared by Flower lodge (@flower_lodge) on

You’ll find Flower Lodge in 4 Beulah Road, Rhiwbina, Cardiff. Call Tracy on 029 2062 7587 if you have any queries. Tip: check the home accessories range with lovely natural candles and gifts.

Are you ready to add more flowers into your life?

What’s your favourite thing about flowers in the house? Have you tried Oasis floral foam before? Share your tips in the comments below.

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Juan Sandiego

I’m an Interiors & Wellbeing Coach with a passion for design and the science of happiness. I help home renovators create their ideal home and lifestyle so they can live happy and stress-free. Want to try it? Book your free session today.

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18 Comments

  1. Caroline
    7 years ago

    Tracey’s posey looks so pretty! I really fancy giving this a try and hopefully with these tips I won’t make a complete disaster of it. Flower arranging is definitely not my forte, but I wish it was.

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank for your comment, Caroline! Believe me, it’s not my forte either. But it’s all about letting go perfection and embracing the wild messy look. Just make sure you source the best quality flowers ?

      Reply
  2. Anne Marie
    7 years ago

    This is such a great idea, I knew about the blocks so why didn’t I think of that earlier? Instead every week I was trying to fill a massive jug with few flowers and still after all this years of doing so, I was surprised each time that they didn’t want to stand! I’m definitely getting one! Great post Juan!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank you, Anne Marie! I’m glad you found it useful. Oasis blocks are great and they come in all sorts of sizes and shapes. I’m sure I’ll be writing about then again ☺️

      Reply
  3. Meera
    7 years ago

    I love this post, so useful! I’ve always found it daunting to try to create a flower arrangement but with these tips, maybe even I could manage something half decent 🙂

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Meera! I’m sure if you try you’ll end up with an amazing flower arrangement. Good luck with the IBA shortlist ?✨

      Reply
  4. JENNY KAKOUDAKIS
    7 years ago

    Here’s to more light bulb moments from me! Like Anne Marie mentioned: why did I not think of it earlier??!! BLOCKS! Need blocks!

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank for your comment, Jenny! And the thing is blocks are inexpensive and versatile. You can do so much with so little.

      Reply
  5. jade wilce
    7 years ago

    Who knew Oasys blocks could create such a wonderful look?! I always thought those things were for flowers arranged in straw baskets for the Nannas but so great to see you can curate something so contemporary and fresh! 🙂 Fantastic tips and such a gorgeous curation! xx

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank for your comment, Jade! Loved the Nanna reference, haha. But it’s true. In my mind I also had the vision of those brown blocks with dead flowers. Glad you enjoyed the post.

      Reply
  6. Donna
    7 years ago

    Lovely post. I consider myself quite crafty but I’m TERRIBLE at flower arranging!!! I’ll def be back when the new kitchen is in so I can made the dining table sing ?

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thanks for reading, Donna! Definitely, have a go and let me know how it turns out ?

      Reply
  7. Fiona
    7 years ago

    You make it sound so easy I’m going to have to give it a try. It makes a change from flowers in a vase and it is nice to have a low level arrangement on the table that doesn’t get in the way when you have friends round for dinner.

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      7 years ago

      Thank for your comment, Fiona! It’s indeed a bit of a change from flowers in a vase. And I hadn’t thought about the practicalities too ☺️

      Reply
  8. Annie
    6 years ago

    Who knew you were such a skilled florist Juan! I absolutely love your tips and its a really innovative yet simple way to create a beautiful arrangement 🙂

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Aw, thanks for your comment, Annie! All the credit belongs to Tracy, the real florist. But it’s something I’m definitely going to try again… unsupervised! ?

      Reply
  9. Simran Ahuja
    6 years ago

    Hi Juan. Thanks for suggesting such a wonderful floral block. I tried this in my home and everyone just loved it. All the credit goes to you. This post deserves shares. Really thanks.

    Reply
    1. Juan Sandiego
      6 years ago

      Thank you for your comment, Simran! I’m so glad it worked for you. Thank you again for taking the time to comment.

      Reply

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