Kinds of Flower Arrangements

To many people, flower arranging is an art form. If you have ever thrown some flowers in a vase and been less than satisfied with the results, you probably agree. Learning the different methods of flower arranging can be a useful hobby and skill. There are many different types of arrangements to choose from. Does this Spark an idea?

Horizontal

A horizontal flower arrangement consists of a low arrangement of a single big flower that is flanked on the sides by some drooping flowers or branches. Use this type of arrangement as a table centerpiece because its low stature doesn't obstruct the line of vision of people sitting. Use a shallow container for this type of arrangement, usually with floral foam to stabilize the flowers.

Vertical

A vertical floral arrangement is tall and dramatic. Long-stemmed flowers such as roses, lilies and sunflowers give the bouquet height. Then a few shorter flowers are integrated to balance out the arrangement. Use tall, narrow vases that can better support the long stems. If you are using floral foam or something like gravel on the bottom of the vase to support the flowers, a shorter container can be used.

Triangular

Triangular flower arrangements are popular for ceremonies like weddings and funerals. They have a formal balanced look. A few taller flowers are placed in the middle, while smaller ones radiate from the center at three points. Filler flowers and foliage are then used to fill in the rest of the arrangement. The arrangement forms a symmetrical triangular design that looks good close up and far away.

Minimal

Minimal flower arrangements can give off an elegant and understated look. They usually consist of just one or a few flowers in a smaller vase or a bud vase, depending on the size of the flower. For a dramatic look, choose an exotic bloom like an orchid. Here you can emphasize the form and color of one particular flower, which might get lost in a bigger bouquet.

Crescent

A crescent arrangement takes the shape of a crescent moon. This arrangement is good for coffee tables or as some kind of accent decoration. The trick to making a crescent arrangement is to find flowers and foliage whose stems are strong and naturally curve. Gladiolus, ferns and carnations with flexible stems work. Usually a few long and curved flowers make up the tall part of one side of the crescent, where fuller and stockier flowers make up the base.

Oval

Oval flower arrangements are most appropriate for formal gatherings. They consist of a group of larger and taller flowers in the center and then fan out at two sides. As the flowers spread outward, both their size and brightness of color should diminish. An example of this would be using deep purple flowers in the center and then using more lighter and subdued lilacs and whites at the sides.