Country Bouquets Floral
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Windows on the Bay Wedding Show Booth Flowers
Bridal Inspirations Wedding Expo, Bellingham, on January 9th
Friday, January 7, 2011
Planting Flowers This Year?
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Pantone Color of the Year for 2011
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Forcing Branches to Bloom
Early blooming bushes and trees develop their blooms early in the fall, before they go dormant for the winter (see list below for selected varieties to choose). Once the winter has been cooler then 40 degrees F for at least 8 weeks (usually mid-January), branches can be cut and brought inside to bloom. Bushes are easier to force then trees. Some take as few as 2 weeks to force inside while others will take 4 weeks or more. The later in winter you wait to harvest them (March versus January), the sooner they will bloom inside.
When choosing branches to harvest, it is best to choose a day in which the temperature is rising 10 degrees or more. This helps the branch get ready to be forced. Choose branches that have plump flower buds, which are generally larger then leaf buds. Cut the branch longer then you will need, as you will prune several times more before arranging the branch in your final floral display.
Bring your branches inside and prepare a bucket of water tall enough to support the branches upright. The water temperature should be warm (110 degrees F) and 3" deep to start. Re cut your branches above the original cut. If your branch is thick, make a 1" cut up the center of the branch to help it absorb water better. Place the branches immediately in water. Let the branches drink water for about 20-30 minutes, then add more water. Place the container in a cool room (60-65 degrees F) room, in a shaded location.
Once the buds start to show color, the branches can be moved to their final display vase. Re-cut the branch and place in clean water. To prolong their life, keep them in a cool location and out of direct sunlight. Enjoy!
Best bushes and trees to force: Currant, Quince, Forsythia, Pussy Willow, Witch Hazel, Alder, Crab Apple, Magnolia, Peach, Pear.
Flowers By Color
The following are cut flowers listed by color, for your reference. These lists are by no means complete, but they will give you a good starting point when planning your wedding.
Blue
Orange
Pink
Red
Yellow