DISCOVER THE ART AND TECHNIQUES OF LILY ARRANGEMENTS, FROM CLASSIC TO RUSTIC.
Lilies are a versatile flower that can be arranged in many beautiful ways, whether you grow them in your own garden or purchase them from a local florist. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the symbolism behind lilies, explore different styles of lily arrangements, and provide tips on how to extend their vase life. Whether you’re a seasoned floral designer or simply enjoy creating stunning displays in your home, there’s something to learn for everyone. So let’s dive in and discover the beauty of lilies together!
SYMBOLISM
Lilies have been used in art, literature, and religion for centuries, and they carry a variety of meanings.
Some of the most common symbols associated with lilies include:
- Purity and innocence: White lilies are often used in weddings and other ceremonies to symbolize purity and innocence.
- Sympathy and compassion: Lilies are sometimes used in funeral arrangements to express sympathy and compassion for the bereaved.
- Renewal and rebirth: Lilies are often associated with springtime and new beginnings, making them a popular flower for Easter and other springtime celebrations.
LILIES AS CUT FLOWERS
The vase life of cut lilies can vary depending on several factors, including the variety of lily, the stage of development at which the flowers were cut, and the care taken in handling and preparing the flowers.
In general, cut lilies can last anywhere from 5 to 14 days in a vase, with some varieties having a longer vase life than others. For example, Asiatic lilies tend to have a longer vase life than Oriental lilies.
To maximize the vase life of cut lilies, it is important to follow a few key steps:
- Cut the stems at an angle using a sharp knife or scissors to prevent the stems from becoming crushed or damaged.
- Remove any leaves or foliage that will be submerged in the water, as these can rot and promote bacterial growth.
- Place the lilies in a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water.
- If you wish, add a commercial flower preservative or a homemade solution of 1 teaspoon sugar and 1 teaspoon white vinegar per quart of water to the vase to help feed the flowers and prevent the growth of bacteria. I do not.
- Change the water and re-cut the stems every two to three days to maintain water flow and freshness.
STAMENS
It is not necessary to cut the stamens of lilies, but it can be done if desired. The stamens are the male reproductive parts of the flower that contain the pollen, and they produce a yellow or brown dust-like substance that can stain hands, clothing or furniture if it comes into contact with them.
If you wish to remove the stamens from your lilies, you can do so by gently pulling or cutting them out with a pair of scissors while holding the flowers upside down and let stamens fall in a bucket. It is important to do this carefully, however, as the stamens are delicate and can easily break or stain the flower if handled too roughly.
Keep in mind that removing the stamens will not necessarily prolong the vase life of the lilies, quite the opposite. Additionally, some people may prefer the appearance of lilies without the stamens, as it can create a cleaner and more polished look. Ultimately, whether or not to cut the stamens of lilies is a matter of personal preference. Think that floral buds will however show stamens when they open.
It is worth noting that removing the stamens of a flower may affect its vase life.
It’s important to keep in mind that removing the stamens of a flower can potentially shorten its vase life since doing so interferes with one of the flower’s reproductive purposes. It’s crucial not to remove the stigma, which is the central female organ of the flower. This is because removing it can trigger the flower it has completed its life cycle and it may fade more quickly.
By following these steps and providing proper care, cut lilies can maintain their beauty and fragrance for several days, making them a popular choice for cut flower arrangements and bouquets.
TYPES OF ARRANGEMENTS
Forget the traditional use of lilies in funeral wreaths or bouquets. Lilies are incredibly versatile flowers that can be used in a variety of arrangements, from simple and elegant to bold and dramatic. Some popular types of lily arrangements include:
- Monochromatic lilies: A simple yet stunning arrangement featuring a single color of lilies, such as all-white or all-pink.
- Mixed lilies: A vibrant and colorful arrangement that includes a variety of lilies in different shades and hues.
- Lilies with foliage: An arrangement that combines lilies with different types of greenery or neutral elements, such as ferns, baby’s breath, for added texture and interest.
- Lily centerpieces: A centerpiece that showcases the beauty of lilies and adds a touch of elegance to any table setting.
- Lily bouquets: A classic arrangement that combines lilies with other complementary flowers, such as roses, daisies, or carnations, for a beautiful and fragrant bouquet.
CONTAINERS
Lilies can be arranged in a variety of containers that complement their beauty and enhance their visual impact. Some popular types of containers that I use as vases to add a creative and personalized touch for my lily arrangements:
- Glass vases
- Ceramic vases and bowls
- Baskets or wooden buckets
- Other unique vessels, such as teapots, pitchers, or tureens, for a creative and personalized touch.
MY COMPOSITIONS WITH LILIES
Here are more examples of arrangements crafted with lilies.
