BOUQUET

It’s no surprise that succulents are being used more and more in weddings and other special events. Because they come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, succulents can fit into any style bouquet. Whether you want your bouquet completely made of succulents, or prefer to use them alongside other flowers, they are sure to make a statement. In addition to being an absolutely gorgeous addition to your wedding, your succulents can be replanted and last long after your event is over, making a perfect keepsake from your special day.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Succulents
• Green Floral Stem Wire or Skewers (approximately 12")
• Green Floral Wire
• Wire Cutters
• Floral Tape
• Flowers
• Lace, Burlap, or Ribbon
• Scissors
• Hot Glue or Boutonniere Pins

WHAT TO DO

1. Remove all of the soil from your succulents. If your succulents have long roots, you may want to trim them or simply cut the roots off leaving a one- or two-inch stem.
2. Insert your floral stem wire or skewer into the stem of your succulent. A skewer is my first choice for large plants, because it provides a very sturdy support for the weight of heavy succulents. If your succulent has a thin stem, I recommend using floral wire to avoid tearing open the stem with a thick skewer. Using floral wire also gives you a little more freedom to angle your plants as you build your bouquet.

   

3. Wrap the stem of your plant with floral tape. Start as close to the base of the plant as possible and work your way down the wire or skewer.

   

4. Wrap all the way to the end of the skewer if you want all of the stems in your bouquet to be green.

   

5. If you have a succulent with a short or flimsy stem, or no stem (only roots), you can create support for your plant by wrapping the roots around a skewer and then wrapping them tightly with floral wire followed by floral tape.

   

6. After you have stemmed all of your succulents, you are ready to start building your bouquet. Start with one plant or a small grouping as your center and add from there.

   

7. Use filler flowers, like baby’s breath, to add mass to your bouquet. Place taller flowers or clippings to the sides and back of your bouquet.

   

8. Hold your stems tightly and wrap them together with your lace, burlap, ribbon, or floral tape. Hot-glue the end or use boutonniere pins to secure it into place.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

Treat your succulent bouquet as you would a flower bouquet. When your event is over, dismantle your bouquet and de-stem your succulents. Let them callus over for a few days and then plant them in well-draining soil. With proper care, this special keepsake will continue to thrive.

TIP!

Take special care when handling your succulents. Many succulent leaves have a beautiful coating that can be rubbed off if touched. Try to hold your plants by the stems or under the lower leaves as much as possible to keep them looking their best.