Florist foam comes in `bricks' which we cut to size as we need them; the foam is firm enough to hold its shape, but soft and easy to push flower stems into. The foam acts like a sponge and quickly soaks up water; which then is available for the flowers standing in the foam to use. Water that is used by the flowers is replaced by adding more.
At Flowers 4 Nelson our flowers are either made into bouquets or bunches to be placed in a vase of water; or into an arrangement of flowers in a box or ceramic pot/container.
In the arrangements we use wet floral foam which is placed in a plastic bowl, and then inside the box; or in the case of ceramic pots directly into the pot. The flowers stems are pushed into the florist foam which holds them in position and provides the flowers with water.
It is important to remember to add a little water to the florist foam every day or so to keep the flowers supplied with water; the amount to add varies depending on the room temperature and the flowers; but is generally about half a cup every second day. The foam should feel damp; and you can also check that there is some surplus water in the plastic bowl that holds the foam by testing with the tip of your finger in the bowl.
Check out our video on flower care for more information on looking after flowers in your home.