Do-It-Yourself Japanese Orchid Plant Arrangements

Orchids

• Whether you are clipping Japanese orchids from your own garden or flowerpot, or purchasing the orchids from a local retailer, always make sure that you choose healthy Japanese orchids for your arrangement. Choose those with strong stems, glossy foliage and healthy-looking blooms. If you are cutting your own orchids, cut them just after they come to a full bloom.

Fillers

• The Japanese orchid’s glossy green foliage provides the arrangement with its own natural fillers. Still, additional greens and filler flowers can help to complete your arrangement. Choose greens and filler flowers that complement your orchid's colors. Play around with the color selections and filler choices until you find the look you are going for.

Vase

• The vase you choose for your plant arrangement should complement your Japanese orchids, as well as your personal preferences. Choose whatever color or shape you want, but make sure the vase is not too big or too small for your intended design. Feel free to use a vase that you already have, or buy a new one if you prefer. Be sure the container is clean so it does not contaminate the freshly cut Japanese orchids or promote rapid fading of the blooms.

The Arrangement

• The Japanese orchids require fresh cuts before being placed in the arrangement. Use sharp, sterile shears to trim the stems to the desired length. Make clean, sharp cuts so the orchid can continue to take in water while in the arrangement. Cut some of the Japanese orchid stems shorter than others to give dimension to the plant arrangement. Place your Japanese orchids in the vase first, one at a time. Remove any lower-lying foliage that touches water once placed in the vase. Cross the stems as you place the orchids and spread the orchids somewhat evenly throughout the vase. Place your filler flowers in small groups throughout the arrangement and insert your greens strategically to eliminate gaps in the display. There is no right or wrong way to make your Japanese orchid flower arrangement. Rearrange the flowers and fillers until you find a look that appeals to you. Fill your vase with tepid water once complete and display your finished arrangement.