Floral Materials & Tools Flashcards

What is the purpose of using floral preservative solution in vase water?

Answer: It provides sugar for energy, acidifies water, and contains biocides to inhibit bacterial growth

Commercial floral preservatives contain sucrose (energy), acidifiers (lowering pH improves water uptake), and biocides (killing stem-blocking bacteria).

Which type of container material is most porous and therefore most prone to harboring bacteria between uses?

Answer: Unglazed terracotta

Unglazed terracotta is highly porous, allowing bacteria and fungi to embed in tiny surface pores, making thorough disinfection between uses essential.

What is 'greening' a floral arrangement?

Answer: Adding foliage as a base layer to establish the arrangement's shape before inserting flowers

Greening refers to placing foliage first to establish the silhouette, hide mechanics, and create a visual base for flower placement.

Which natural fiber product is used to add texture and cover foam in low, compote-style arrangements?

Answer: Sheet moss

Sheet moss is pressed flat over wet foam in compote and low dish arrangements to conceal mechanics while adding a natural, lush texture.

A designer notices that tulips in a mixed arrangement are growing taller and bending toward light after arrangement. What is the best solution?

Answer: Re-cut stems shorter and use a cooler storage environment to slow further growth

Tulips are phototropic and continue to grow after cutting; keeping them cool and re-cutting slows elongation and the gravitropic bending response.

What is a 'basing' technique in foam-based floral design?

Answer: Covering the foam surface with a layer of foliage, moss, or flowers as a foundation

Basing covers exposed foam with plant material like foliage or moss, concealing mechanics and creating a clean visual backdrop for the design.

Which tool would a designer use to curl ribbon for decorative purposes?

Answer: Bone folder or scissors blade

Running ribbon tightly against the sharp edge of a scissors blade or bone folder creates a curl through tension and friction.