Burwash Horticultural Society

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Green alternatives for floral foam

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• Floral foam is made from synthetic, non-recyclable plastic and is created using a combination of carbon black, formaldehyde and phenolic foam, which are all toxic. and can't be recycled or disposed of safely.

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• Its use is banned in RHS flower shows.

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• Pebbles, sand, gravel, clay, and marbles, are suitable alternatives.

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• Use compact moss or even fruit to support floral arrangements.

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• Use a kenzan or flower frog – metal devices that sit in a vase or bowl and secure stems with metal needles or guide them into holes – vintage ones are available.

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• Scrunched up chicken mesh or metal pins are also useful.

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• Pliable twigs also make a good supportive lattice for flowers to be propped against.

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Jobs for Winter​

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• Dead-head winter flowering shrubs and plants.

 

• Check supports and plant ties, shore up if needed.

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• Clean bird feeders and hang away from squirrels.​​​​​​​

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• Sort out the greenhouse, wash pots and shelving, tidy up ready for planting up and starting seedlings..

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• Clean garden tools. Oil the wooden handles and blades.

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• Make sure blades of secateurs and loppers are sharp, oil them too.

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• Plan ahead and decide what seeds you need for the vegetable plot.​​​​​​

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• Consider planting shrubs that will provide food for wildlife, birds and insects in the coming year. ​​

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