In addition, taking seasonality into account makes it possible to achieve color palettes in line with the typical atmosphere of the time of year in which the event falls. However, with seasonal colors one can always play around a lot, opting for variations made possible by dried or preserved flowers and ornamental greens, which are available all year round.

In this article we introduce to you the seasonal flowers available in our store, so you can be guided in your choice for your decorations, arrangements and bouquets.

Spring flowers

Delicate and pastel-colored, spring flowers always give gentle emotions. They are perfect to give as gifts to express affection or for elegant decorations that aim to give a sense of rebirth.

Ranunculus

At the end of winter, ranunculus bloom begins, opening the door to the new spring. Such a curious name means “frog or little frog” because in nature the ranunculus often grows next to swamps and marshes, in the very water inhabited by these amphibians.

The flowers are similar to roses, so they are a popular choice for floral arrangements, thanks in part to its variety of vibrant colors and elegant layered shape.

Peach blossom

Peach blossoms begin to bloom around March or April and, with their soft pink petals, are often used in spring flower arrangements to add a touch of sweetness and romance. They symbolize longevity, love and rebirth, making them a significant addition to bouquets for weddings and other celebrations

Peony

Peonies are lush, romantic flowers that sprout in the dead of spring in April and May. They express love and prosperity or wish for a speedy recovery. Some superstitions also see peonies as bringers of good luck and excellent allies in driving away evil spirits.

They are versatile flowers and on par with roses are considered a great classic of floral decoration. They are perfect for romantic bridal bouquets as well as for creating stunning effects in arrangements for spaces.

Genista

Genista blooms profusely from April through the summer. The most widely grown variety in Italy is the yellow-flowered one, but there are many different species. In our store, for example, we also have pink, purple and red Italian genista. All possess the typical flexible, sinuous stems with lush flowering.

They are a powerful symbol of purity and prosperity, so much so that since ancient Rome they have been used in rituals to sweep away the old and welcome the new in May.

They give splendor and vitality to floral decorations, thanks to the absence of leaves on the stems and the delicate shape of the flowers, resembling many butterflies.

Rose

Roses are the typical flower of May, the month in which it begins to bloom. Rose bloom is usually quite long and continues through the summer, even reaching as late as September.

Each color has its own meaning, and for example, the red rose is associated with love, while the white rose with purity. Roses are the greatest classic ever and are perfect for a wide range of floral arrangements, from wedding decorations to Valentine’s Day bouquets and even summer bouquets.

Summer flowers

With summer, nature continues its floral explosion and gives beautiful flowers in ever more vibrant colors.

Jasmine

Jasmine is known for its enveloping scent and is often used in summer floral arrangements to add a touch of romance and a distinct fragrance. Sometimes it is found as early as spring, but it is in June that it usually begins to bloom through the summer. It’s a rich bloom, really abundant, and it is given as a gift to wish for happiness.

Gypsophila

Among the most fascinating and versatile flowers of this period, gypsophila is the one we are most in demand for. Its bloom begins in July and lasts until September. It is a plant that expresses gracefulness, so much so that it is also called fog flower or bride’s veil.

In fact, it is often chosen precisely in weddings juxtaposed with roses, so as to restore movement and freshness to the composition.

Autumn flowers

After the summer heat that put a strain on plants and soils, the first chill of autumn arrives. Many plants prepare for winter hibernation, while others begin to bloom in this very season of slumber. The colors of their flowers are often as warm as those that predominate the season, although there is no shortage of white or violet.

Rice flower (diosmi)

Rice flowers are real little floral jewels. They begin to sprout in spring or even fall, with buds and little white flowers resembling many grains of rice. The flowers have an intense fragrance and make decorations richly fragrant.

They suit decorations of all kinds and are at their best in important ceremonies, such as weddings.

Winter flowers

Even winter gives precious gems rich in color. Despite the cold weather, some plants begin to awaken earlier than others and grant spikes of vibrancy that brighten the atmosphere. Thanks to them that even cool winter arrangements can provide great satisfaction.

Mimosa

As early as February, mimosa is widely used in flower arrangements for its vibrant yellow color and delicate fragrance. This flower is symbolic of Women’s Day and is given on this occasion as a sign of respect and appreciation.

With its clusters of bright yellow globular flowers, the mimosa always brings cheerfulness and carefreeness to bouquets or decorative bunches.

Wax flower

Wax flowers bloom in late winter, bringing vibrancy to the last cold weather. These are very distinctive inflorescences that belong to the plant Hoya carnosa. Their texture is waxy, hence the name. The white or pink flowers are concentrated in several umbrella-shaped clusters and have a delightfully rounded star shape.

They are a symbol of longevity and give winter floral arrangements great elegance, as well as a citrusy fragrance from the lemon-scented leaves.

Therefore, let us see together which Italian botanical varieties are the most popular and most adopted in floral compositions.

Italian-style flowers and plants

Italian Ruscus is one of the most researched decorative plants. Elegant in its bright green, easy to work with and suitable for all kinds of arrangements. For a truly valuable Italian-style decoration, it can be juxtaposed with varieties that grow luxuriantly with the help of the Belpaese climate and soil:

• mimosa
• genista
• viburnum
• ranunculus

Dried and preserved elements can always be added to these, which help to enhance the central Italian flowers, following the type of style you prefer or relate best to the event.

The formal style

The formal style of floral arrangements involves symmetrical structures to each other. Roundness and regularity are the main rules to be observed. They are achieved by arranging the flowers at the same height, so as to achieve a homogeneous realization with no gaps. According to this style, all flowers are protagonists, without any main one being chosen. It is mostly used for brides’ bouquets, but also for centerpieces and decorations of small spaces.

It is perfect when you want to convey:

• balance
• serenity
• rationality
• security

The decorative style

The decorative style is ideal when you want to embellish a space in a showy way. Arrangements are often elaborate and richly detailed through the use of colorful flowers and various decorative elements. This creates an eye-catching visual effect that can stimulate the senses.

In the decorative, flowers are placed on different lengths and the sense of movement is made more intense by alternating fullness and emptiness, which generate light-dark effects. Everything is played on the contrast between symmetry and asymmetry, along with depth effects.

This style is suitable for any event and utilization, precisely because of the scenic sense it restores and its versatility of expression.

It is recommended to use it when you want to stimulate:

• curiosity
• movement
• astonishment
• prosperity

The vegetative style

The vegetative style reflects the natural growth of plants and flowers. The arrangements follow the shape and structure of the plants, giving the impression that the flowers are still rooted in their original environment. In fact, to create a vegetative arrangement, it is necessary to understand how the plants used grow in nature in order to replicate it as faithfully as possible.

The effect created is lively, due to the coexistence of multiple focal points, around which multiple flowers are grouped with successions of fullness and emptiness.

It is a versatile style that can be used in both small and large arrangements and for a wide variety of events: from weddings to office decorations, it will help make any environment relaxing.

The feelings it arouses are very much related to the relationship with nature:

• freedom
• spontaneity
• serenity
• curiosity

The modern style

The modern style is characterized by innovative and minimalist compositions. It often takes the linear style, which has very precise compositional rules, and adds a touch of free whimsy to it. What remains inescapable is the search for balance through clear lines, which prevail over large volumes and accompany the eye in precise directions.

This style is well suited to modern furnishings, whether private or institutional or office. The linearity will give these environments:

• elegance
• curiosity
• fascination
• movement

The classical style

The classical style is based on traditional rules and patterns of English extraction. Geometry is the absolute protagonist of each structure, which is built following strict patterns. Triangles, squares and circles are the predominant shapes and involve the use of traditional colors, such as green red and white. Classical flowers of Western culture are usually included, so roses, lilies, peonies or carnations are preferred, embellished with lush ornamental greenery.

The classical style is used at formal and traditional occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, receptions and other important events where you want to convey a sense of:

• timeless elegance
• refinement
• luxury
• formality
• nobility

The antique style

The antique style is inspired by historical floral arrangements, such as those seen in paintings and decorations of antiquity. Thus, pictorial representations are faithfully reproduced, going back in time between many eras, even looking at ancient Roman mosaics or Greek art.

This style is especially in demand in thematic events, celebrations in historic places, or to environments that already possess ancient architectural or decor features.

The compositions are always very precious and intended to arouse:

• solemnity
• culture
• fascination
• interest

In our store you will find a wide selection of products ideal for your compositions with an Italian “scent”!

Just remember that every holiday is linked to the season in which it is celebrated, and in fact its symbolic flowers usually belong to the very blooms of the same period as the event. Of course, colors also play their part, and to enrich the floral arrangement, dried and stabilized flowers of all tones and varieties can be added.

As we continue reading, we will look in detail at the appropriate flowers and plants for each occasion and what are the most appropriate choices and combinations to ensure a good figure.

Plants for Christmas

At Christmas, the emblem of the quintessential symbol of this holiday goes to the Poinsettia, which evokes the atmosphere with its beautiful red color. It pairs perfectly with other typical plants of the winter season, such as the white berry holly, often combined with gold, silver or glitter decorations. Red berries also go well with Christmas, and the most beautiful ones to go with them are undoubtedly those of the butcher’s broom and Ilex or holly. And for ornamental greenery? Palm leaves are always on trend and you can also choose dried ones to create additional color play in their gold or silver versions. The classic Italian Ruscus is also often added to give the bouquet or composition an even more elegant, but still Christmas spirit.

The Christmas wreath

To these plants and flowers, additional touches can be added in Christmas wreaths. Woody elements, in fact, are ideal for achieving a wintery yet warm atmosphere. Pine cones, pine twigs or cotton twigs soft as snow. The colors to play with are always green, white, red, gold and silver, which can also be used with recolored dried or preserved flowers and plants, especially when you want to achieve an unusual or more creative style.

Valentine’s Day Flowers

On Valentine’s Day with red roses you can never go wrong, but arrangements often include variations with white or pink roses for those who want them more delicate. To highlight the main flower, there are several choices in the red, white and pink range:

• gypsophila
• genista
• Ranunculus
• dried or preserved hydrangea
• diosmi white (rice flower)
• eucalyptus
• peony
• scabiosa pink
• ming fern pink

If you want to veer into alternative colors, the mimosa will know how to add just the right vibrancy to your Valentine’s Day bouquet or wreath.

Mother’s Day Flowers

Flowers to give to mothers are usually chosen to express gratitude and love. Also for this occasion, the flowers that are king are roses, and they are often framed with gypsophila, ranunculus and many orchids. These are delicate and precious flowers that can be mixed and matched at will while keeping the composition rich and light at the same time. This way you can always play it safe, even when you are not familiar with your mom’s floral preferences.

Spring plants and flowers

At this time of year, nature awakens, giving us those pastel hues that so harken back to a sense of serene rebirth. In arrangements, go for yellow mimosas, white, yellow or blue roses and cheerful sunflowers. To set these beautiful flowers, there are many possibilities among dried or preserved flowers and plants in pastel yellow, light blue, light pink and white colors:

• lavender light pink
• scabiosa
• Lino blue
• Cat fern light blue
• Ranunculus white

Independence Day wreaths

Among the most important holidays for the United States is Independence Day on the Fourth of July. The colors of the American flag are a must that accompany the entire event everywhere and are also applied to the floral decorations. Wreaths are the most typical and are composed by weaving red, white and blue flowers together with ribbons that echo the same hues. We often find roses, daisies and blue delphinium, but also many varieties among the preserved or dried flowers, as they can be recolored even when out of season.

Autumn holidays flowers

In autumn, between October and November, there are several national holidays where flowers are a permanent presence. Colors tend to become softer and warmer in each floral arrangement, but there may be variations or preferred symbolic flowers depending on the event.

Halloween

For Halloween, both in Italy and the United States, one can choose flowers and decorations that reflect the themes and colors of the holiday, such as pumpkins, orange-colored chrysanthemums, and arrangements with themed decorative elements. Orange and black colors are predominant in both fresh and preserved flowers. Dried flowers, in particular, lend a Victorian and mysterious aura to compositions and are particularly suitable if one wants to express melancholic decadence. The contrast between fresh and dried flowers, moreover, further enhances the sense of balance between life and death, especially when the dried flowers are recolored in black, as they accentuate the symbolic connotations of the holiday. Other favorite flowers for Halloween include:

• fresh roses orange
• dried or preserved roses black and gray
• dried or preserved hydrangea orange, black, and gray
• dry or preserved cat fern black and gray.
• dried or preserved wavy fern black and gray.

All Soul’s Day

Two days after the Halloween holiday, there comes a time to remember deceased loved ones, and especially in Italy, it is a tradition to bring flowers to the cemetery to commemorate them. The flowers most chosen for these occasions have a special meaning:

• chrysanthemums: respect and remembrance for those who are no longer with us (in Italy)
• anthuriums and roses: respect and love for the deceased person
• orchids: renewal and eternity

Thanksgiving Day

In the United States, the Thanksgiving Day is a must-do event that is always cherished. Also on this occasion, flowers are present to enliven the atmosphere of sharing and embellish the laid tables filled with traditional delicacies.

The most popular flowers have always been orchids, in colors of yellow, orange and brown. Other typical flowers and plants of Thanksgiving are also chosen on this very natural color palette, such as beige and cream and all the typical warm colors of autumn. Among these, we often find:

• beech
• stuartiana
• viburnum
• ginkgo biloba

What ornamental cut greenery is used for

In bouquets and floral decorations, a “touch” of green promotes a good contrast between colors, makes the compositions harmonious and makes them achieve a good visual balance.

Adding greenery also increases its volume and structure: the gaps between flowers are filled in, and the more delicate or smaller flowers receive an excellent background that makes them stand out so that they are not overpowered by the larger flowers.

Thus, the composition is enriched with interesting shades and visual trends, but not only that: the greenery is even capable of generating a greater sense of movement to the overall floral composition. By placing it strategically, the lines of its leaves and branches guide the viewer to the right focal points and also restore a greater sense of depth. In this way, the composition appears even more dynamic and engaging.

The main techniques for using cut greenery

Thanks to ornamental greenery, it is possible to transform any bouquet, arrangement or decoration, creating true works of art. Just follow a few small tricks to place it in the best possible position, just as the best florists do.

1. Creating a harmonious background: using greenery as a background for flowers is a classic and effective technique. Placing leaves and branches behind the more colorful flowers makes them stand out and also increases the depth of the composition. This method is particularly useful when working with brightly colored flowers or particularly delicate petals;
2. Guiding the Eye: to guide the observer’s eye, branches and leaves can be positioned so that they converge towards the focal point of the composition, such as a particularly beautiful flower or a group of flowers;
3. Adding Texture and Variation: Combining different types of ornamental greenery with unique shapes and textures intensifies the visual and tactile interest to the composition. To create a pleasant contrast, the simplest and at the same time spectacular mix is ​​obtained by combining shiny leaves with opaque ones or rigid branches with hanging ones;
4. Balance the composition: in the event that one side of the composition is too weighed down by larger and more numerous flowers, the addition of ornamental greenery on the other side restores the balance. Thus, the aesthetic appearance and also the physical stability of the decoration or deck are improved;
5. Create depth and three-dimensionality: Placing green at different levels within the composition creates the illusion of depth. It is an effective trick especially for larger decorations and centerpieces, where greater three-dimensionality gives a very scenographic and spectacular effect;
6. Underline the theme of the event: floral decorations embellish the rooms and help create the ideal atmosphere, aligning the feelings of the people present with the theme of the event. For example, for a wedding you might prefer branches and leaves with a more delicate look, while for a formal event you might choose shiny and structured leaves.

The most commonly used types of cut greenery in floral arrangements

As is the case with flowers, the most popular ornamental greenery varies according to the season in which it is purchased and also changing trends over time. However, there are real staples even in cut greenery, which never go out of fashion precisely because of their elegance and versatility. Here, then, are our tips on the types of greenery for floral arrangements that are nothing short of perfect:

• Italian Ruscus or Danae Racemosa: not to be confused with its relative Butcher’s Broom, Italian Ruscus is the most classic and eclectic of the ornamental greens, as it has a bright, smooth dark green leaf that is beautiful both in large decorations and in bridal bouquets;
• Parvifolia: a very elegant type of eucalyptus, which stands out for its silvery green and fresh smell and provides a great contrast to Ruscus;
• Pittosporum Nigra or Silver Queen: a plant with charming, small, rounded leaves, often used for large arrangements or in dry gardens because of its variegated color that adds vibrancy and light.

What are bleached plants and flowers

Bleaching is a process to which both petals and leaves can be subjected and is carried out on dried or preserved cut plants and flowers. Both dried and preserved flowers retain their characteristics for a long time without deteriorating. The former achieves this through a dehydration process that, precisely, “dries” them by making their color slightly lighter. Preserved products, on the other hand, after dehydration are rehydrated with specific substances that make them look as fresh as if they had just been picked.

After completing any of these procedures, bleaching can also be performed.

How to bleach flowers and the differences with coloring

To make plants and flowers white in both petals, stems and leaves, it is necessary to soak them in specific acids once dried or preserved. These substances will cause the flowers and leaves to lose their pigmentations and appear an elegant whiteness suitable for any floral decoration.

The coloring, on the other hand, is a different process involving both natural and previously bleached products. The procedure can be by absorption, that is making the flower and plant absorb water dyed with a special dye. Another way of coloring flowers and plants is by immersion, that is immersing them completely into a colored solution. The process to be used varies depending on the type of product to be colored.

The most suitable occasions and festivals

Bleached plants and flowers are in great demand throughout the year to create floral decorations at special events and recurring festivals. In particular, they are especially suitable for occasions such as:

1. Weddings: in the bridal bouquets and dresses, but also to decorate the ceremony venue and party centerpieces;
2. Baptisms and confirmations: white is the color that best matches the religious significance of these events;
3. Baby shower: pre-birth parties are often enhanced with floral decorations to create a cozy atmosphere;
4. Mother’s Day: white symbolizes platonic and pure love, so it is often used to honor one’s mother on the day dedicated to her;
5. Christmas: in Christmas floral decorations, white is associated with snow and brings out the bright greens and intense reds that are often present together;
6. Thanksgiving Day: dried or preserved bleached flowers are used to decorate the home or dinner table to celebrate gratitude for blessings received throughout the year. They are also frequently included in thank-you cards to enhance the message inside;
7. Valentine’s Day: bleached foliage and flowers are perfect for highlighting the red roses in typical Lovers’ Day bouquets, in one of the most widely used color combinations.

The advantages of bleached greenery and flowers dried or preserved

Beyond the differences with dried and preserved, bleached greenery and flowers are popular products due to the many advantages they offer. The main ones are:

1. Long duration
2. Minimal care
3. Versatility of use
4. Varieties of flowers available year-round

How to take care of bleached flowers?

Bleached ornamental greenery and flowers are a bit more delicate than unbleached ones, but their care is still very simple. Whether they are dried or preserved, simply avoid getting them wet or placing them near direct heat sources, such as radiators. In addition, they can be easily dusted off with a small brush or with the cool air of a hair dryer at minimum speed: this little trick is enough to preserve the beauty of bleached products without ever appearing dull.

In any case, simple steps can be taken to preserve cut flowers longer and enjoy their vivid colors for several days.

Where to place fresh flowers at home

The position of cut flowers indoors is basic to their durability. It is necessary to avoid placing them near heat sources or in direct exposure to sunlight, as the heat will cause them to wilt quickly. A useful trick is to leave them for a few hours on the balcony or in a cool place so that the cold will help them slow down flowering. It is good to know, however, that the flowers that are most resistant to temperature changes are the seasonal ones, because they are grown in open air instead of in a greenhouse, and are therefore already accustomed to the changes between hot and cold.

Too strong drafts also harm the flowers, as they can make the petals fall off or spoil them. Also, you must keep them away from fruit, especially fruit that produces ethylene, because it would cause them to deteriorate more quickly.

As for the type of vase for cut flowers, it is always better to opt for an opaque one rather than a transparent one: the water will be kept better at room temperature and there is no need to fear that the sun’s rays will change its PH.

How to cut stem and leaves from cut flowers

When cut flowers arrive in the house, often the ends of their stems are already somewhat spoiled, and so it becomes difficult for them to absorb water and nutrients properly. To remedy this problem, it will be sufficient to make an oblique cut 2-3 cm from the part that is spoiled or has turned a little brown. If, on the other hand, the stem is still intact, it will be necessary to make the cut after 2-3 days. Care will need to be taken to use well-sharpened and clean blades, so as to make a clean cut that does not fray the stem and prevent harmful bacteria from settling on the fibers.

The lower leaves should also be removed so that they do not remain submerged in water: leaves in contact with water quickly rot and affect the health of the flower.

What to put in water to make cut flowers last

In their natural habitat, flowers receive numerous nutrients from the soil, but these are lost when immersed in water alone. Among these, the most important are phosphorus and potassium, which are easily found in every household’s compost. What to use, then, to create good nutrition for cut flowers? Simple, you just need to recover the peels of common fruits and vegetables such as bananas, avocados and potatoes and follow these steps:

1. Fill a saucepan with water and dip the peels into it;
2. Bring the water to a boil;
3. Turn off the heat and let it rest until it reaches room temperature;
4. Strain the liquid and pour it into the vase at each water change.

The amounts of the nourishing liquid vary according to the type of water in the house, but it is good not to overdo it and pour only a little, because otherwise you risk having the opposite effect and “burning” the flowers.

Coffee and sugar are also good for invigorating cut flowers, and only a teaspoon is needed to add to the water in the vase. If, on the other hand, you want an antibacterial effect, you can add a teaspoon of vinegar or bleach to a liter of water.

““Seeking a hue that echoes our innate desire for closeness and connection, we chose a color that radiates warmth and modern elegance. A hue that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace and effortlessly blends youthfulness with timelessness.” ”.

This is how the company justified the choice of Peach Fuzz as the color of the year. A hue that, in flowers and plants, lends itself well to interior decoration and at special events.

Let’s see together, then, what occasions are ideal for this shade and what natural elements stand out most in this richly elegant shade.

Floral decorations in Peach Fuzz for events

The color Peach Fuzz is suitable for creating events dense with warmth, welcome and romance. Here, then, this pink becomes ideal at weddings, in bouquets and floral decorations for tables and rooms, conveying a feeling of coziness and delicacy on a special day.

But it is also a perfect shade for design and fashion events, creating new, unexpected and trendy color plays. In addition, Peach Fuzz is perfect for cultural or artistic events, precisely because it was selected by Pantone for its ability to enrich mind and body and to emphasize the importance of connection between people.

And why not also use it to celebrate natural beauty? In fact, peach enhances the sweetness of nature and encourages us to reconnect with it.

Which colors to match?

The versatility of Peach Fuzz lends itself well to creating refined floral arrangements and decorations that make any space cozy and even brighter. The colors to match are diverse and range from tone on tone, to contrasting colors:

• Neutral colors: beige, taupe and wood to enhance the sense of relaxation;
• Different shades of pink: from antique pink, to salmon for all the confidence of a delicate palette that always astonishes;
• Sugar paper celestial or jade green: two cool pastel colors that match Peach perfectly, preserving its gentle character;
• Yellow: from lemon yellow to golden yellow, this combination gives even more light to rooms, even when lighting is poor;
• Magenta and eggplant purple: two bright colors that may seem risky, but actually create a really sparkling and creative effect;
• Black: black and charcoal gray also create an elegant and sophisticated context when combined with peach;
• Warm shades of brown: colors such as leather, brandy, caramel and rust blend well with peach, resulting in a warm and bold feeingl.

Dried and preserved plants: the perfect Peach Fuzz!

In nature we can find several flowers whose hue approaches Peach Fuzz, and among them roses and tulips are varieties with many shades similar to peach. How to do it, however, if you want exactly the Peach Fuzz? Simple, just opt for preserved or dried flowers and plants that can be recolored as you prefer.

In our shop we have several options in Peach Fuzz for creating original bouquets and floral decorations. Here, then, are some of our products available in this soft shade:

• Hydrangea: among the most popular ornamental plants, its flowers are beautiful both in vases alone and in rich arrangements;
• Eucalyptus pulverulenta Baby Blue: a long-limbed plant with small round leaves, which is used to give impetus to artistic flower arrangements;
• Ming fern: a shrub with rich branches of thin needle-shaped leaves, which is used in floral decorations as a filler and to add a touch of charm and mystery;
• Eucalyptus silver dollar pink: with its slender branches contrasting with its round coin-like leaves, it is perfect both alone in vase and in brides’ bouquets;
• Stone Grass: the slender, bushy stems of this shrub make it suitable for filling out floral decorations and transforming them into enchantment;
• Thistle light pink: preservation treatment softens the thorns of this scenic plant, making it even more suitable for bouquets.

Whether you want to embellish a corner of your home or decorate an entire event, let’s see together what new trends in floral arrangements you can take inspiration from to make original creations.

Floral arrangements to be reused

For those with a keen eye for sustainability, reusable arrangements are a valuable option for reducing environmental impacts and in fact are really in demand. They are made with a white or green base of dried or preserved flowers, while the central flowers are fresh and are the only ones that can be changed as needed. In this way, the arrangement becomes chameleonic and can adapt to the current season or special events that you want to embellish.

For example, should you want such a centerpiece, you can create an excellent base by joining these preserved or dried ornamental plants together:

• Reed
• Bunny tail
• Bleached Italian ruscus
• Mini Pampas
• Dodonea
• Fern

Fresh seasonal flowers are added to this arrangement depending on the occasion or season. The most trendy customizations in recent years are:

• Christmas: The predominant colors are red, green and white, reflecting the holiday tradition, which is why the poinsettia is the most iconic flower this season, but red berries, pine cones, twigs and white flowers are also beautiful if you want to recreate the feeling of a snowy landscape;
• Valentine’s Day: with red roses on Valentine’s Day, you can never go wrong. They are, in fact, a great classic that is always appreciated and can pair well with red carnations and tulips to liven up the arrangement by including delicate accompanying shapes. White or pink roses are also enchanting to associate with red so that it stands out even more;
• Easter: yellow and white are the most iconic colors of this holiday and also match perfectly with light blue and light green, as they hint at spring and its delicate freshness;
• Mother’s Day: pink is always the most popular color for flowers to give to mothers, and in 2024 Peach Fuzz is also trending, Pantone’s color of the year, which chose peach pink to express kindness and balance;
• Spring: During this period it is typical to turn to pastel and delicate colors, such as lavender lilac, but you can also indulge in bright and sparkling color palettes, incorporating tulips, hyacinths and roses;
• Summer: fuchsia has undoubtedly been the most fashionable color for several years and goes well with soothing blue and purple, albeit with intense hues;
• Autumn: this season brings warm, earthy hues. Fall flowers such as chrysanthemums, roses, and cyclamen explode in colors ranging from pink to purple-fuchsia, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Fresh flowers can also be complemented with dried fruit, such as oranges, apples and pomegranates.

Special floral arrangements: the Ikebana

Ikebana is a particular oriental art that has had its greatest development in Japan as a true practice of spiritual philosophy related to Zen. Its floral arrangements use a variety of natural elements, so along with fresh flowers, dried flowers, branches, leaves, and herbaceous clumps are also combined. The arrangement is placed in a tall or low ceramic vase, which can be replaced by other materials from nature itself such as a root or a stone.

The result is a unique composition that allows creativity to experiment with different possibilities and reconnect with the flow of emotions. This is why Ikebana is a practice that is becoming increasingly popular in the West as well, not only for the understated elegance of the compositions, but also for finding new ways of understanding nature and balance with it.

Arrangements with fluffy plants

Fluffy plants (namely soft to the touch) offer a unique opportunity to create unusual and trendy decorations. Pampas for example, with its fluffy feathers, adds a bohemian touch to the composition. Bunny Tail also makes an extremely impactful visual statement, thanks to its fluffy, round ball-shaped flowers that pair well with different varieties of grasses and herbs to create an even more ethereal texture.

What are the best combinations for such distinctive plants? Easy, to achieve modern arrangements full of character, just combine them with more classic ornamental flowers and greens:

• Roses
• Orchids
• Tulips
• Gerbera
• Lavender
• Italian Ruscus
• Eucalyptus
• Monstera
• Fern

What are natural dried flowers

Dried flowers are 100% natural products that have undergone a dehydration process, which is why they can be kept for several years. Once the water is eliminated, the flower retains up to 85% of its original colors and shape that characterizes it. It should be pointed out, however, that not all flowers can be dehydrated. Some, in fact are too delicate and lose their petals during the process.

So, what are the flowers that can be dried? Some of the most common and suitable ones include:

• rose
• hydrangea
• peony
• lavender
• helichrysum
• gypsophila
• statice
• echinacea

How to dry flowers

The simplest method of drying a flower is something we have probably all done once in our lives: place it between the pages of a book waiting for it to dehydrate completely. In this way, however, the cut flower flattens out. How, then, to dry it without losing its shape? It’s possible to use a dehydrator, or a special oven where the flowers are exposed to heat in a controlled manner. Among the most common treatments, we also find the silicon treatment, where the flower is completely immersed in the drying agent until it loses all the water inside. Of course, there is also the more classic and homemade method of hanging the flowers upside down and drying them in the sun.

The difference with preserved flowers

Both dried and preserved flowers (link to: article preserved flowers) are made by total dehydration, but the processes and results between the two are very different. In fact, preserved flowers first have all the plant sap removed and then are rehydrated through a mixture of water and glycerin, which restores their full original volume. During this process, called “preservation” , the flowers can be bleached or colored as desired.

Preserved flowers also last a long time, as do dried ones, although they can poorly tolerate direct exposure to the sun. For this reason, they are not recommended when you want to create decorative arrangements to be set up outdoors: dry flowers are definitely more suitable for such occasions.

Advantages of dried flowers

Dried flowers always remain a great classic of floral decorations. They have been used for centuries to beautify interiors, creating delicate points of color, or to embellish important events, especially winter and fall events.

Their centuries-long success is due to their undisputed advantages:

1. Very long duration: thanks to dehydration, dried flowers can be kept for several years without losing their beauty.
2. Perfect for decorations: from bouquets, to centerpieces, to vases and even for candles, these flowers lend themselves to so many creative purposes;
3. Easy maintenance: do not require special care, just a few cares
4. Sun exposure: unlike fresh or preserved flowers, they retain their beauty even under direct sunlight
5. Cheap: their cost is similar to that of fresh flowers and they last much, much, longer.

How to store dried flowers

Storing dried flowers requires very little:

1. Dust off: occasionally you need to dust them off with a soft brush or hair dryer with cold air at low speed;
2. No fertilizer: they do not need nutrition;
3. No water: water baths and rinses would ruin them and they should not be exposed to rain;
4. Away from heat sources: although they are resistant to sun rays, excessive heat damages them; therefore, they should not be placed near radiators or similar heat sources.

What are preserved flowers?

First of all, a clarification: although we commonly speak of “flowers,” preservation is a particular procedure to which leaves, branches and fruits can also be subjected. Through this treatment and the use of special products, a preserved flower (and other plant elements) does not undergo its natural deterioration and retains the characteristics of freshly harvested ones for a long time.

How to preserve flowers

Preservation is a procedure that involves replacing the plant sap contained in flowers and plants with other substances with preservative properties. It can be accomplished in different ways, but in any case, it takes place through several stages:

1. Harvesting the product during the peak of flowering to capture its maximum beauty and durability.
   
2. Dehydration of the product (times vary for different products)
   
3. Rehydration of products by soaking in a solution of water and glycerin (preservation by immersion) or placing in jars filled with the same solution (preservation by absorption).
   

During the preservation process, which is completed in about 3 to 4 weeks, the flowers can also be colored by adding pigments into the solution of water and glycerin or, by eliminating the chlorophyll, by bleaching them, making them white or cream-colored, two popular shades. Bleached flowers (link to: article 04) are, however, very delicate because they are immersed in acidic and very aggressive substances that also cause the loss of much product. This also happens, to a slightly lesser extent, in preservation and is the cause of the higher cost of preserved flowers compared to fresh cut flowers.

Difference with dried flowers

Some people might think that preserved flowers are similar to dried flowers. This is not quite so. There is a big difference between dried flowers (link to article 03) and preserved flowers. Both products are obtained through complete dehydration, that is, with the elimination of the plant sap present inside them, but in the case of dried flowers the process ends without putting in any other substances. Preserved flowers are, on the other hand, rehydrated with liquid substances that preserve, precisely, their characteristics as if they were fresh.

Advantages of preserved flowers

Despite the higher price, preserved products are increasingly in demand. How can this great success be explained? The answer lies in the advantages that preserved flowers offer:

1. Long (even very long) duration: thanks to the process they undergo, they can last for months and if well maintained even years, retaining the beauty of fresh flowers. The average duration also depends on the type of flowers: some such as ranunculus or peonies, which are already more delicate in themselves, last approximately one or two years, others such as preserved roses more resistant can last up to five years;
   
2. Ideal for decorative purposes: due to their durability, they are perfect for use in creating floral arrangements for ornamental use;
   
3. They do not require special maintenance unlike fresh flowers, which, on the other hand, need more attention;
   
4. Their long duration makes them inexpensive: in fact, you only need to buy them once to enjoy their beauty for a long time.

How to take care of preserved flowers

All it takes to ensure that preserved flowers retain their characteristics for a long time is a few small steps:

1. .Do not water: in fact, they do not need the nutrients contained in water
2. .Do not expose them directly to the sun: with sunlight their color would tend to fade
3. Do not wet them either with running water or in the rain: to clean them simply use a soft brush or a hair dryer with a not too strong jet of cold air
4. Do not place near heat sources: to avoid accelerating their natural decay

Also called Danae Racemosa or Alexandrian laurel, it is cultivated only in a few areas of the world, including Italy and in particular in Liguria, where the land we own is located.

The main characteristics of Ruscus Racemosus

One of the main peculiarities of Italic ruscus racemosus is its leaves. In fact, rather than true leaves, they are rather extensions of the stems (cladodes), which develop flattened tips. These thinned tops take on a flexuous, lanceolate shape, giving Ruscus the appearance of an elegant, sinuous shrub with rich foliage.

Other characteristics are:

• Family: Ruscaceae
• Type: herbaceous perennial, rhizomatous
• Habit: bushy
• Growth: up to 120 cm tall; over 1m wide
• Leaf color: dark and shiny green on both sides
• Flower: tiny and starry, creamy-white in color
• Berries: orange
• Cultivation soil: well drained
• Location: shade or half-shade; undergrowth
• Cold resistance: down to -10 degrees Celsius

The cultivation of Ruscus Racemosus in the lands of Liguria

Ruscus Racemosus is originated in the cradle of the Mediterranean, and it is here, even today, that its cultivation is most flourishing. Its high resistance to drought and temperatures as low as -10°c makes it easy to care for. However, the areas of the world where it is grown are very few: Italy, Turkey, Syria and Iran.

Ruscus loves shady areas and grows proudly in undergrowths protected by the foliage of taller trees, as in the alpine and Liguria areas. It is precisely in these places that it is able to develop to its fullest and grow even more luxuriantly, just like that of the Italian variety that we carefully cultivate in our lands on the heights of Sanremo in Beuzi.

Ruscus Racemosus in events and festivals

Elegant, versatile and available year-round, Ruscus Racemosus is often used to embellish any type of event.

The slender shape of the foliage and the bright green color make this plant perfect as a complement to floral decorations, precisely because it can bring out the colors of the flowers used. It adds a refined, understated yet sophisticated touch to environments used for important and exclusive events, such as weddings, baptism, vernissages or institutional events.

Thanks to its bright berries that contrast with the dark green leaves, Ruscus is also often adopted for winter festival decorations, woven into wreaths and centerpieces. Or it can also be used as a potted plant.

Finally, the cut Ruscus Racemosus has the ability to last a long time from cutting and therefore is particularly suitable for all those occasions where the floral decoration needs to keep its beauty intact for several days.

The other varieties of Ruscus

In addition to Racemosus, the most appreciated varieties of Ruscus are those of Aculeatus and Hypoglossum, also used for decorations, thanks to their bright green and showy red berries.

Ruscus Aculeatus is mostly known as Butcher’s Broom because of its small leaves with a prickly thorn-like end.

Hypoglossum also has its own more common name than its botanical name, namely Ruscus Israeli or Ruscus Gardeni. The leaves of this variety spread out in the center and take on a soft, rounded shape.