A Bunch for the Weekend - # 49 - Mixed Ranunculus

This week on 'A Bunch for the Weekend' - I'm featuring a mixed bunch of Ranunculus from the farmers' market.

You'll need:

- 18-20 stems of Ranunculus - in any colours 

-  an odd number of either vintage or re-cycled small bottles in a variety of sizes

- a tray or platter - you want a flat surface so the little bottles will stand steady 

For conditioning the flowers - you'll also need:

- a pair of florists scissors

- a florist bucket filled with fresh water

Condition the flowers by removing any leaves that would end up below the water line in the vase. This is to reduce any growth of bacteria from deteriorating leaves. Also remove any broken or bruised leaves.

Cut the stems at an angle - this is to increase water absorption.  

Put in a clean container with fresh water and leave in a cool, dark place over night or at least for a few hours, to let the flowers absorb the maximum of water, before making the final arrangement.

You might have to re-cut the stems while making the final arrangement to suit the size of the vase or container and to get the right proportions.

Fill the bottles with water and arrange them on a tray or platter. Make sure it's a flat surface the smaller bottles can become a bit top heavy when filled with flowers. 

Vary the amount of stems in the bottles - use open flowers, half open flowers as well as buds - both the once that are showing some colour and some green ones. It all forms an interesting variety of textures.

I have removed all the leaves as I like to see the long bendy stems - I have also kept the stems as long as possible without it looking out of proportion and without the bottles toppling over.

I think Ranunculus are one of the most charming and beautiful flowers at this time of year. Don't you agree?   

Have a Happy Floral Saturday and a Great Weekend!

~ xoxo ~

Ingrid

[Styling and Photography © Ingrid Henningsson for Of Spring and Summer]