How to Pick a Container for Floral Arranging

Measure the size and height of your flower arrangement. Determine the height of the tallest bloom, and measure the width of the bouquet when you bunch together the stems. The vase itself should be 1/2 the height of the tallest flower, and the base of the vase should be 1 to 2 inches wider than the bunched bouquet. The tallest bloom should be at least 3-4 inches above the top of the vase.

Choose the shape of your container. Tall, thin bouquets need narrow containers. Fluted containers narrow at the neck before opening again at the mouth of the vase so that the bouquet can cascade slightly over the edge. Bud vases are very small, and are useful when arranging smaller or fewer blooms. Rectangular vases with straight, rectangular mouths are suitable for artistic flower arrangements of statement flowers such as tulips or lilies. Large, bulky flower arrangements should be placed in sturdy circular containers with slightly narrowed necks.

Look for a surface texture that complements the flowers of your arrangement. Some choices are colored, clear or cut glass; colored ceramic, porcelain, or copper or other metal. Look for a color and texture that draws the viewer's eye upward, to the flowers, without clashing with the flowers themselves. For example, if the flowers of your arrangement are light and delicate, like wildflowers, a glass container would be best suited. If your flowers are heavier in nature, such as roses or sunflowers, a ceramic vase will complement the larger blooms. Clear glass containers make a beautiful statement when paired with simple, pretty stems like those of tulips. Whatever color or surface you choose, make sure it does not clash with the flowers, as they are the real statement of the arrangement.