The blooming success of beautiful lilac arrangements
With their enchanting fragrance and delicate blossoms, lilacs have long been a spring favorite in gardens and floral arrangements. Their success in floral design is not just a testament to their seasonal charm, fragrance their beautiful palette and their symbolism, but also to their versatility and the joy they bring to any setting. Here’s why lilac arrangements are blooming in popularity, along with some tips to create stunning bouquets, as I showcase many of my own creations.
Seasonal charm
The seasonal nature of lilacs adds to their charm. Typically blooming in late spring to early summer for only a few weeks, the lilacs, or Syringa, bring a fresh, seasonal touch to the gardens and arrangements. This limited availability in time makes them a coveted choice, adding an element of exclusivity and specialness to events and gifts during their peak season.
A fragrance that enchants
One of the most compelling reasons for the success of lilac arrangements is their intoxicating fragrance. The sweet, nostalgic scent of lilacs can fill a room, evoking memories of spring and early summer. This aromatic appeal makes them a favorite choice for weddings, events, and homes, where creating a welcoming atmosphere is key.
A palette of lilac beauty
Lilacs offer a range of colors from deep purples and lilac blues to soft pinks and whites, even yellow. This spectrum allows for creativity in arrangements, enabling florists to craft bouquets that complement any theme or color scheme. Whether it’s a vibrant centerpiece or a subtle accent, lilacs can be adapted to fit the desired aesthetic perfectly.
Here’s how to make the most of these different hues:
- From pale lilacs to purple lilacs: Deep purple lilacs can add a regal touch to arrangements. Pair them with white or pale yellow flowers for a striking contrast.
- Pink lilacs: Soft pink lilacs bring a romantic and gentle feel. Combine them with other pastel flowers like peach roses or blush peonies for a dreamy bouquet.
- White lilacs: Pure white lilacs symbolize innocence and purity. They look elegant with greenery and can be paired with any color for a classic, timeless arrangement.
- Purple and white lilacs: The lilac variety ‘Sensation’ showcases stunning bicolor blooms, blending vibrant purple petals with pure white margin.
- Yellow lilacs: The ‘Primrose’ variety, with its creamy yellow hue, pairs beautifully with darker lilacs or contrasting blooms like deep purple irises or bright pink peonies. This subtle yellow can bring a fresh, unexpected twist to your floral arrangements. However, I have found it to be very, very pale in the specimen I have just acquired.
Symbolism of lilacs
Lilacs are often associated with emotions and meanings, such as love, purity, and renewal. Their presence in an arrangement can add a layer of sentimentality and depth, making them ideal for occasions that celebrate new beginnings, like weddings and graduations, or to convey heartfelt emotions in sympathy arrangements.
Versatility in design
The structure of lilac blossoms, with their small, clustered flowers, makes them incredibly versatile in floral design. They can be used as a filler to add texture and volume or as a focal point to draw the eye. Their ability to blend seamlessly with other flowers and greenery ensures that they can enhance a variety of arrangement styles, from rustic to elegant.
Tips for creating stunning lilac arrangements
A well-cared-for bouquet of lilacs can typically last anywhere from 5 to 10 days. However, several factors can influence their longevity. Here are some useful tips:
- Wait for full bloom: For the most stunning and fragrant display, wait until all the flowers are fully open before incorporating lilacs into your arrangements. This ensures that you capture their full beauty and scent, making your arrangement even more captivating. However, note that lilac flowers that have endured heavy rain or excessive heat may not keep as long.
- Stem length consideration: When cutting lilac stems for arrangements, be mindful of the length. Cutting very long stems may impact next year’s flowering on your shrub, though a very mature specimen will not suffer as much as a young one. Aim for a balance between creating a visually pleasing arrangement and preserving the health of your lilac shrub. Using a shallower vase for shorter stems may be a good option.
- Stem preparation: Some people recommend techniques like hammering the stems or placing them in hot water to improve water uptake. However, I believe that these methods are not necessary. Simply trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle and ensuring they stay hydrated with fresh water is sufficient for keeping your lilacs fresh.
- Hydration is key: Lilacs are prone to wilting, so it’s important to keep them well-hydrated. If you can, trim the stems again two days after their original preparation. I do not use floral preservatives either but you may try it,
- Temperature matters: Keep lilac arrangements in a cool environment to prolong their freshness. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
- Mind the vase: Use a sturdy vase that supports the weight of the lilacs, as their woody stems can be heavy. The vase will also convey the different moods, from rustic to refined, that you want to create with your arrangement. Use a sturdy vase that supports the weight of the lilacs, as their woody stems can be heavy. If you opt for a bucket or a large vase, consider using chicken wire as a support structure. I do not favor floral foam because it is not environmentally friendly, and in any case, I do not like it for the sturdy stems of lilacs. For a smaller bouquet, tie the stems together so they stand better in a vase.
- Combine with complementary blooms: Pair lilacs with seasonal flowers like tulips, irises, and peonies for a harmonious and visually appealing arrangement. These flowers not only complement the lilac’s hues but also add varied textures and shapes, creating a balanced and dynamic display.
- Choose the right variety: Be mindful of the variety of lilac you choose. Some varieties are more delicate as cut flowers and may require extra care to maintain their freshness and appearance in arrangements. For example:
- Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris): Known for its robust blooms and strong fragrance, it’s a staple in many arrangements.
- Prestoniae hybrids (Syringa × prestoniae): These hybrids are known for their hardiness and later blooming period. Their blooms are slightly more delicate, with slender branches and lighter blossoms, making them a beautiful, airy addition to arrangements.
- Littleleaf lilac (Syringa pubescens ssp. microphylla): Interesting because it blooms later in the season, providing fresh lilac blooms after the main lilac season has passed.
In conclusion, the success of lilac arrangements lies in their enchanting fragrance, beautiful color palette, symbolic meanings, versatility, and seasonal charm. These qualities make them a beloved choice for a variety of floral designs, ensuring that lilacs continue to bloom in popularity and grace spaces with their timeless elegance.
1 Comment
So many lovely ideas with lilacs, I looked at these arrangements several times and still cannot pick a favourite ! Your collection of vases and vessels is amazing. Thank you !