Exploring Gort's Jianshan Flower Arrangement and Fixing Techniques for Different Flowers

Gort's use of Jianshan flower arrangement is a captivating art form that combines the beauty of nature with intricate craftsmanship. Jianshan, also known as a flower frog, is a traditional tool in flower arrangement, originating from Chinese floral art. It offers a reliable way to fix the stems of flowers in place, making it easier to create stunning floral compositions. One of the interesting aspects of this technique is that different types of flowers require different fixing methods.

Fixing Techniques for Delicate Flowers

Delicate flowers such as lilies of the valley and baby's breath need extra - gentle handling. When using Jianshan for these flowers, the first step is to carefully insert the thin stems into the tiny holes on the Jianshan. Since their stems are fragile, it is recommended to start with a single stem at a time. For instance, when arranging lilies of the valley, hold the stem close to the base and slowly push it into a small opening on the Jianshan. If the stem is too short to reach the bottom of the hole firmly, a small piece of floral foam can be used to support the base of the flower. This way, the flower remains upright and secure, creating a beautiful, cascading effect in the arrangement.

Techniques for Woody - Stemmed Flowers

Woody - stemmed flowers like roses and hydrangeas bring a sturdy and long - lasting element to the flower arrangement. To fix these flowers on a Jianshan, a bit more force is needed. Use a pair of sharp pruning shears to cut the stem at an angle, which provides a larger surface area for contact with the metal spikes of the Jianshan. Push the stem through the holes with a gentle but firm motion. Sometimes, for thicker - stemmed roses, a pre - drilling step can be helpful. Use a thin metal rod to make a pilot hole in the Jianshan before inserting the flower stem, ensuring a more secure fit and preventing the stem from splitting.

Unique Fixing for Orchids

Orchids, with their exotic and elegant appearance, require special fixing techniques in Jianshan flower arrangement. Their hollow or semi - hollow stems can't be treated the same as other flowers. First, wrap the base of the orchid stem with a small piece of wet floral tape. This not only adds some bulk but also provides moisture to keep the flower fresh. Then, insert the wrapped stem into a larger hole on the Jianshan. Additionally, using thin wire can be an effective way to further secure the orchid in place without damaging its soft stem. Gently tie a loop of wire around the stem near the base and attach it to one of the Jianshan's spikes.

FAQs

1. Question: What if I can't find the right size hole on the Jianshan for a particular flower stem?
   Answer: If you can't find a suitable hole, you can try using a thin metal rod to slightly widen a smaller hole or creating a new one. For very thick stems, you may need to stack multiple Jianshan pieces together to create a larger, more accommodating space.
2. Question: Can I reuse the Jianshan after a flower arrangement?
   Answer: Yes, you can reuse the Jianshan. After the flowers are removed, simply clean the Jianshan with warm, soapy water to remove any plant residues. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry before using it for the next arrangement.
3. Question: Are there any flowers that are not suitable for Jianshan flower arrangement?
   Answer: Extremely soft and very short - stemmed flowers, such as some types of wildflowers that are almost sessile, can be challenging to fix on a Jianshan. However, with innovative techniques such as using small pieces of floral foam or wire enhancement, it may still be possible to incorporate them into the arrangement.
4. Question: How long can flowers fixed on a Jianshan stay fresh?
   Answer: The freshness of the flowers depends on various factors like the type of flowers, the environment, and how well they are cared for. Generally, with proper water changes and a cool location, most flowers can stay fresh for 3 - 7 days in a Jianshan arrangement.

In conclusion, Gort's use of Jianshan flower arrangement opens up a world of creativity and precision. Understanding the different fixing techniques for various flower types is crucial for achieving beautiful floral displays. Whether it's the delicate lilies of the valley, the sturdy roses, or the elegant orchids, each flower adds its unique charm when arranged using the right methods in Jianshan flower arrangement. By mastering these techniques, one can not only create stunning floral masterpieces but also deepen their appreciation for the art of flower arrangement.