On my online workbook this week: It's in there

Dear

This week's inspiration is a mindful start to the year.

My tip for you this week is when to add water to a succulent stem… and when not.

Succulents are valued in floral design because they remain turgent (fresh looking) without a water source for longer than the lifespan of any fresh flowers you pair it with, opening up a whole range of design possibilities to us. With this being said I do sometimes add a water source for my succulents. Especially if it is a temporary design. My reason for this is because a tiny bit of moisture will help the succulent to root. So while it looks pretty in a design for a week or so- I also get a head start in propagating the succulent during that time.

It is ideal to cut the succulent, first thing, even before starting the design so that the stem dries out and the scar tissue can begin to form to naturally conserve moisture- for more on this turn to page 72 of my book and then to page 104 for more detailed instructions on designing with succulents. But if you need a really short succulent stem on the go (for instance when crafting body flowers) seal the wound with floral glue to conserve moisture. You can then still remove the plant from the design, peel away the glue, and root it after a few days.

For designs that will be more permanent (longer than a week) I suggest no water source as the plant will spoil in standing water for a long period of time. If you can root the succulent before designing that is the absolute best or design with it so that the fresh cut is exposed to air (although probably concealed in some way, maybe with something like moss that carries some moisture but also free flowing air) so that the stem end dries out and you can later remove it and root it.

My advice is always: think of the entire life cycle of any design you craft. What happens to every little detail once the bulk of the design elements are fading?

If you can design in such a way that no part of your work will become trash- you win.

Enjoy!

Every good wish,

Christine