A flower arrangement in a box is a special type of floral design where flowers are placed in a wooden box, hat box, or basket using a floral foam (oasis). This foam keeps the flowers and greenery constantly moist, allowing them to stay fresh for about a week, sometimes longer, depending on how you care for them. These arrangements are especially convenient for gifts to people who have little time to care for their flowers, as they do not require trimming or an additional vase.
Oasis is a green, foamy material that is most often used for arrangements in small decorative boxes. Although some people consider caring for such arrangements difficult, it is actually a fairly simple process that requires only attention to a few basic rules. Let's look at them together in this article.
Basic rules for watering
The main secret to keeping flowers fresh for a long time is to maintain constant moisture in the floral foam, following several basic recommendations:
- Add about 120 ml of fresh water every 2-3 days (or as needed, which will be described below)
- Use a special nutrient solution for flowers, adding it to the water according to the instructions
- When watering, choose a place at the back of the composition or where there is free space between the flowers
- For careful watering, you can use a clean syringe, pipette or watering can
- It is important to pour water into the center of the composition to avoid wetting the box itself. Despite the fact that all boxes have a waterproof plastic container inside, it is recommended to place them on a tray or plate to protect furniture from possible leaks. If the container is not picky about moisture, then there is no need to be afraid of overflow.
How to determine the need for watering
Make sure that the floral foam always remains moist, since a dry sponge absorbs water worse. The degree of humidity can be determined by the color of the sponge:
- A damp sponge has a darker shade
- A dry sponge becomes noticeably lighter
Also, to check the humidity level, it is enough to lightly press your finger on the open area of the oasis - if water comes out when pressed, additional moistening is not required. Along with watering, do not forget about the flowers themselves in the composition.
What to avoid when caring for flowers in a hat box
❌Do not move the flowers in the sponge after they are installed. This can create air bubbles between the stem and the foam, making it difficult for water to reach the flower.
❌Do not pour water directly on the flowers - this can lead to mold and premature deterioration of the arrangement.
Another factor that determines the durability of flowers in a floral foam is the environment.
General care recommendations
To maximize the life of your flower arrangement:
- Place the arrangement in a cool place, avoiding direct sunlight
- Keep flowers away from drafts
- Maintain a cool room temperature
- Remove wilted flowers and petals regularly
- Avoid placing the arrangement near electrical appliances and heat sources
- Keep flowers away from fruits and foods that produce ethylene. Ethylene is a natural gas that helps fruits and vegetables ripen. As fruits age, not only the concentration of ethylene increases, but also the plant's susceptibility to it. Different fruits interact with ethylene in different ways. For example, apples, pears, apricots, and potatoes actively emit this gas and can accelerate the ripening of nearby plants.
Proper care of a flower arrangement in a floral foam does not require special skills or significant time investment. It is enough to follow a few simple rules: maintain constant humidity of the oasis, protect flowers from direct sunlight, and keep them away from heat and ethylene sources. If you follow these recommendations, your arrangement will please the eye for as long as possible.
Particular attention should be paid to the placement of the flower arrangement in the house. The ideal place is a cool space without drafts, away from fruits, heating devices, and direct sunlight. Such conditions will help to preserve the freshness and beauty of flowers, as well as extend their life.
Flowers in a hat box or decorative box using floral foam are not only a stylish interior decoration, but also a practical option for those who value convenience. Such compositions do not require replanting in a vase or rearranging flowers, and with proper care they canmaintain its attractiveness for a week or longer, bringing joy and comfort to your home. You can see the selection of arrangements on floral foam on our website.