A floral oasis (also called floral foam or oasis foam) is a water-absorbing foam used to keep cut flowers hydrated and arranged. Proper care ensures your flowers stay vibrant longer. Follow these steps to maintain your flowers in a floral oasis.

Materials Needed

• Clean water
• Flower food (often provided with arrangements)
• Spray bottle (optional)
• Sharp scissors or floral shears
• Clean cloth or paper towels

Steps to Maintain Flowers in a Floral Oasis

1. Keep the Oasis Hydrated
   • Check the foam daily by gently pressing it. If it feels dry or light, it needs water.
   • Slowly pour clean water over the oasis until it’s fully saturated but not pooling. Avoid overwatering, as excess water can cause mold or rot.
   • If flower food was provided, mix it into the water according to the packet instructions before adding it to the oasis.
2. Mist the Flowers (Optional)
   • Lightly mist the flower petals with a spray bottle filled with clean water to maintain humidity, especially for delicate blooms like roses or lilies.
   • Do this once or twice a day, avoiding excessive moisture on petals prone to mold (e.g., peonies).
3. Trim Stems Periodically
   • Every 2-3 days, remove the flowers from the oasis carefully.
   • Trim 1/4 to 1/2 inch off the stems at a 45-degree angle using sharp, clean scissors or floral shears to improve water uptake.
   • Reinsert the stems gently into the same holes in the oasis to avoid damaging the foam.
4. Remove Wilting Flowers
   • Check for wilting or dead flowers daily. Remove them promptly to prevent mold or bacteria from spreading to healthy blooms.
   • Dispose of wilted petals or leaves that fall onto the oasis to keep it clean.
5. Control the Environment
   • Place the arrangement in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight, heat sources (like radiators), or drafts, which can dry out the flowers.
   • Ideal temperatures are 65-72°F (18-22°C). Avoid placing near ripening fruit, as ethylene gas (e.g., from apples or bananas) can accelerate wilting.
6. Clean the Container
   • If the oasis is in a reusable container, check for any water pooling at the bottom. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth to prevent bacterial growth.
   • If the oasis becomes slimy or foul-smelling, it’s likely contaminated. Replace it with a new piece of soaked floral foam if possible.

Additional Tips

• Use Flower Food: If you run out of the provided flower food, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp bleach, and 2 tsp lemon juice per liter of water.
• Handle with Care: Avoid moving the arrangement frequently, as this can loosen stems in the oasis, reducing water absorption.
• Flower-Specific Care: Research specific needs for your flowers. For example, hydrangeas may need their petals misted more often, while tulips prefer cooler water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overwatering: Excess water can drown the foam and promote mold.
• Using Dirty Tools: Always use clean scissors to prevent bacterial contamination.
• Ignoring Wilting Signs: Remove dead flowers immediately to protect the arrangement.