Mastering Delphinium: Tips and Tricks
Delphiniums are stunning, tall, and graceful flowers that bring a unique charm to floral arrangements, especially with their rare blue hues. But as breathtaking as they are, these flowers come with their own set of challenges. In this blog, we'll dive into the essential tips and tricks for working with Delphiniums, especially if you’re considering them for your next floral project. Whether you’re a seasoned florist or a DIY bride, this guide will help you handle these delicate blooms with care.
Pro tip: Scroll to the bottom for the full video breakdown of delphinium!
Why Delphinium?
Delphinium is a popular choice for weddings and special events, primarily because of its rare blue color. Blue flowers are hard to come by, and Delphinium offers a variety of shades from light sky blue to deep, punchy tones. However, their delicate nature makes them a bit tricky to handle.
Handling and Care Tips
Buy in Bulk:
Delphiniums are fragile. When ordering, it's best to purchase them in bulk. Shipping them alongside other heavy flowers like roses can cause damage due to the pressure inside the boxes. Bulk orders tend to arrive in better condition because they aren’t squished by other flowers.
Expect Them to Arrive Tired:
After traveling long distances, Delphiniums often arrive looking a bit "sleepy" or underwhelming. Don’t worry—this is normal! Give them some time, and they’ll perk up. A warm water soak helps in reviving them after their long journey.
Warm Water Hydration:
Contrary to popular belief, warm water can be more effective than cold water for rehydrating flowers. It helps open up the capillaries, allowing the flowers to drink more efficiently. This tip is particularly useful for Delphiniums that have been stressed during shipping.
Watch Out for Shedding:
Delphiniums tend to shed, especially during handling. This is a natural process, but if you notice excessive shedding, it might be a sign of stress from the transit. If this happens, take a photo and reach out to your supplier. Most reputable sellers will replace compromised stems.
Floral Food Is Your Friend:
While floral food isn’t always necessary, it can be beneficial for Delphiniums. The added glucose helps them recover and thrive after their journey. Just be sure to follow the directions carefully—too much can do more harm than good!
Desiging with Delphinium
When arranging Delphiniums, consider pairing them with other flowers to avoid a sparse look. Their linear nature can sometimes make bouquets look too spread out. Adding companions like Lisianthus or Sweet Peas can help achieve a fuller, more cohesive arrangement.
Delphiniums can also be tricky in bouquets due to their tall and slender stems. To avoid your bouquet looking like it has wings, consider giving the Delphinium a "buddy" in the arrangement. This technique keeps everything looking balanced and beautiful.
Troubleshooting: What If They Arrive Damaged?
If you find that some stems are broken or severely wilted, don’t throw them away just yet. Give them a fresh cut and place them in a bud vase—they’ll still add a lovely touch to your space. And remember, if you’re dealing with more loss than expected, don’t hesitate to contact your supplier.
The Takeaway
Delphiniums, with their striking blue color and elegant presence, can elevate any floral arrangement. However, they require a bit more care and attention due to their sensitive nature. By purchasing in bulk, using warm water for hydration, and pairing them wisely in arrangements, you can enjoy the beauty of Delphiniums without the stress.
If you’ve worked with Delphiniums before, what’s your favorite tip for keeping them fresh? Or, if you’re new to these blooms, what’s your biggest concern? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s chat about these beautiful yet temperamental flowers!
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About the Author
Tiffany Thomas is the true-crime-loving, logistic + artistic powerhouse behind Flower Moxie. When she's not ogling photos of protea, she can be found running her own online store, Good Wknd.