Iris and Daffodil Arrangements

Iris and Daffodil Meanings

• An arrangement of iris and daffodils not only provides a striking color combination, it also sends a message. According to the language of flowers, daffodils symbolize new beginnings and signs of affection, while the iris signifies faith and hope, all fitting sentiments for weddings. Alternatively, funeral arrangements include these two flowers as symbols of rebirth and eternal life.

Care and Handling of Iris and Daffodils

• Both iris and daffodils are sensitive to ethylene, a gas given off by many fruits and vegetables. If you store the flowers in the refrigerator, make sure all fruits and vegetables are in enclosed bins. Do not recut daffodil stems just before you arrange them. They secrete a sap that clogs the stems of other flowers that are mixed with them. Wait several hours--at least 6--after cutting daffodils before adding iris to the arrangement. Be sure to soak floral foam in a food solution before you start to create the arrangement.

Arrangement Designs

• Consider the size of each flower when you plan the iris and daffodil arrangement. Place iris blooms towards the back of an arrangement, as their flower stalks typically grow longer than those of the daffodil. Cut the iris stems so they rise to two to three times the height of the vase. Make the daffodils shorter to fit in front of the irises in triangular arrangements or place them in a circular pattern around the iris blooms in oval arrangements. Choose dark purple irises to contrast as much as possible with the bright yellow daffodils and fill in the arrangement with greenery.

Extending the Life of Fresh-Cut Arrangements

• When you arrange iris and daffodils, you will want to ensure they last as long as possible or for the required amount of time for an event. Flowers lose their source of nutrients when cut from the main plant. Florists will provide you with packets of floral food to add to the water. You can also make your own floral food by adding 2 tbsp. of fresh lemon juice, 1 tbsp. of sugar and 1/2 tsp. of bleach to 1 quart of water.

Preserving Iris and Daffodils

• You can preserve the flowers from your iris and daffodil arrangements, if desired. Before they begin to wilt, choose the best-looking blooms. Both iris and daffodils will look well when pressed. Lay a flower on a piece of paper and cover it with another piece. Place the flower in the middle of a very heavy book, such an encyclopedia. Add a weight on top of the book and leave it for two weeks. Alternatively, dry out the individual blooms and place them in delicate mesh bags to use as fragrant sachets to freshen clothing drawers.