Sustainable Florist — why I don’t use floral foam

Photo by Amanda Nippoldt Photography

Are you planning a wedding or event and wondering what type of floral arrangements to use? As a sustainable florist, I urge you to reconsider using flower foam. Flower foam, also known as Oasis foam, has been a staple in the floral industry for many years. However, it is time to acknowledge the environmental impact of this material and look for more sustainable alternatives. The following are just a few reasons why I choose not to use floral foam.

First, let's take a closer look at what flower foam is. It is a green soft, spongy material that absorbs water and keeps the flowers in place in floral arrangements. It is widely used because it is easy to work with and can be molded into any shape or size. However, what many people do not realize is that flower foam is made of non-biodegradable, petroleum-based plastic. This means that it does not break down in the natural environment and can take hundreds of years to decompose. It’s also super bad for you to breath in and inhale while working with it.

The use of flower foam contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution. When it is disposed of (after one use), it ends up in landfills or worse, in our oceans, where it can harm marine life. The chemicals used in the production of flower foam also have negative effects on the environment and human health.

But the environmental impact of flower foam does not stop there. The production of flower foam requires a significant amount of energy and resources, including water and fossil fuels. The transportation of the material also adds to its carbon footprint. Considering all of these factors, it is clear that flower foam is not a sustainable choice for floral arrangements.

So, what are the alternatives? As a sustainable florist, I use a variety of techniques to create beautiful arrangements without the use of flower foam. One of the most popular techniques is to use reusable containers such as glass vases or compotes. These containers can be filled with water to keep the flowers hydrated. To hold things in place I use chicken wire or clear floral tape in a vase or container. A second option I like to use if I can’t have water in a vessel is using sheet moss. It is literally the same ol’ moss you’d find on a forest hike, but it can hold so much water! I usually also pair this method with chicken wire. Arga Wool is another sustainable option if I need something a little more heavy duty for water holding capacity and support. It is technically a one time use product, but I tend to get a couple uses out of it, plus its also biodegradable! Again I pair this with chicken wire. Lastly, Oshun Pouches are a go to for installations. They are similar to Agra Wool, but I find it easier to work with and a little less drippy.

Using sustainable materials in floral arrangements not only benefits the environment, but also supports local businesses and the community. By choosing to work with a sustainable florist, you are supporting a business that cares about the environment and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. In addition, sustainable florists often work with local farmers and suppliers to source their flowers, which helps to support the local economy.

As you plan your wedding or event, I encourage you to consider the impact of your floral arrangements on the environment. By choosing to work with a sustainable florist and avoiding flower foam, you can create beautiful arrangements while also making a positive impact on the planet. Let's work together to create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.

**There and many incredible florists who still use floral foam and I am not knocking them or their work. I do however think that times are changing and people are caring more and more about our impacts on the environment.