Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Arranging Blooming Lotuses that Last

The lotus flower is a beloved symbol in many cultures, and its beauty is often sought after for home decor. With the right care, you can ensure that your lotus flowers bloom to their fullest and maintain their delicate petals for a longer time. Learn the secret to achieving this and impress your guests with the stunning sight of vibrant and long-lasting lotus blossoms.

Administrator

9 September, 2024

The lotus is regarded as a symbol of purity, nobility, and longevity in Vietnamese culture. According to folklore, the lotus flower rises above the mud and blooms with pristine beauty, symbolizing resilience and vibrant life force amidst adversity.

From May to August, the lotus season is at its peak, gracing streets and flower markets with its exquisite presence. It’s a time when many purchase these flowers to adorn their living spaces.

**Tips for Displaying a Fully Bloomed Lotus Arrangement that Lasts:**

Choosing the Right Lotus:
When selecting lotuses for an arrangement, it’s crucial to choose slightly opened buds, as closed buds may not bloom. Opt for fresh flowers with no signs of wilting, and those that have just begun to part their petals, as they will continue to bloom more easily after being cut and arranged.

Nutrition and Care for Longevity:
Unlike other flowers, lotuses require a unique care routine for longevity. After purchasing, use a sharp knife to cut the stems at an angle, aiding in better water absorption. Invert the bouquet and rinse the stems with shower water, ensuring the cut ends are thoroughly soaked.

Then, soak the flowers in a bucket of water, ensuring the stems are submerged without submerging the blooms. Leave them for a few hours or overnight so they can absorb enough water. Occasionally mist the flowers to keep them hydrated.

*The secret to a fully bloomed and long-lasting lotus arrangement (Photo: Pinterest)*

Arranging the Lotus:
After a night of soaking, your lotuses are ready for arranging. Choose a suitable vase and clean it thoroughly. You can add flower food to the water to prolong the life of your arrangement. If flower food is not available, a simple solution of sugar in the water will provide nourishment.

Additionally, carbonated soft drinks, vinegar, or aspirin can be used as an alternative to provide nutrients and inhibit bacterial growth, further extending the life of your lotuses.

When arranging, feel free to get creative and style the lotuses according to your personal taste and the aesthetic of your living space. For certain varieties of lotuses, such as the ‘sen nghi lương’ and ‘sen táo vàng’, external support is required for the flowers to bloom, so you can freely shape them without worrying about petal drop.

On the other hand, self-blooming varieties like the ‘sen vàng’, ‘sen ánh dương’, and ‘sen đột biến’ will open up on their own. These self-blooming lotuses usually bloom twice—once in the early morning, then again the next morning after closing in the afternoon. As these self-blooming flowers are more prone to petal drop, it’s best to place them in a static location, avoiding any disturbance that might cause petal loss.

It’s important to position your arrangement in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and direct airflow from fans or air conditioners, to prevent premature petal drop.

With proper care, your lotus arrangement can remain vibrant for 5 to 7 days. Remember to occasionally mist the flowers to maintain their freshness.

**Superstitions Surrounding Lotus Arrangements:**

There is a common belief that the number of flowers in an arrangement for ceremonial purposes should be odd. However, this belief is not universally applicable, as the bringer of luck or fortune can vary depending on the context and the recipient’s age, among other factors. For instance, for some individuals, an even number of flowers may bring more fortune.

*According to VTC News*

Frequently asked questions

The guide provides a step-by-step process on how to arrange fresh or artificial lotuses to create a beautiful and long-lasting display. It offers tips on where to source the flowers, how to prepare them, and the best methods for arranging them in a way that maximizes their beauty and longevity.

Fresh lotuses can be sourced from local lotus farms or Asian markets. The guide suggests visiting these places early in the morning to ensure the freshest flowers, and it provides tips on how to select the best blooms.

The guide provides instructions on how to clean and prepare the lotuses, including removing any dirt or debris, trimming the stems, and conditioning the flowers with a floral preservative. It also offers tips on how to create a supportive structure for the arrangement, such as using floral foam or a vase with a narrow neck.

The guide suggests a few different methods for arranging lotuses, including the traditional ‘Lotus Tower’ arrangement, as well as more contemporary designs. It provides tips on how to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing composition, taking into account the size and shape of the flowers, and the use of complementary foliage.

With proper care, a lotus arrangement can last up to a week or more. The guide offers tips on how to extend the life of the flowers, including changing the water regularly, trimming the stems, and misting the flowers with water to keep them hydrated.

Yes, artificial lotuses can be used as a long-lasting alternative to fresh flowers. The guide provides suggestions on where to find high-quality artificial lotuses, and how to arrange them in a way that looks natural and beautiful.