Chrysanthemums (mums)
Chrysanthemums are some of the most versatile flowers available. They come in a huge variety of colors, sizes, bunched vs single stemmed, and various petal shapes, making them suitable for any season or occasion. Some of my favorite arrangements have some sort of mum in them.
Let’s visit some of the most common types of mums.
Most popular types of Chrysanthemums
Incurve Chrysanthemums
These mums are large in size and have florets or petals, that curve inward. The petals cluster closely together and disperse, falling out toward the stem. These are singlet flowers, one flower per stem.
Due to their densely clustered petals and large size, these flowers easily take center stage in any bouquet, making it necessary to only need a few per arrangement.
Reflex Chrysanthemums
These chrysanthemums are medium to large in size. Their petals curve downward and create a very full bloom, giving these flowers a romantic and lustrous appearance. Reflex Chrysanthemums are also singlet flowers.
They make a great addition to any arrangement due to their plush and exquisite blooms.
Pompom Chrysanthemums
Pompoms are small blooms that are nearly perfectly spherical. Their florets are fairly regular and curl in on the edges. These Chrysanthemums come in clusters or an inflorescence.
Due to their smaller size, utilize them as an accent or filler flower in your home bouquets. (featured in today’s arrangement)
Cushion Chrysanthemums
Cushion mums are medium to large in size, have flatter petals and overall shape than their previously mentioned counterparts. These mums come in clusters, are very common and nearly dominate the fall season.
Even though you find them potted on porches, you can still incorporate them into your floral arrangements.
Quill Chrysanthemums
Quill mums are a unique variety. They are large singlet flowers with numerous long narrow petals. Their petals are a bit more spaced out making them slightly more delicate than those with fuller, tighter blooms.
These flowers make great additions to bouquets and act as a focal point in your bouquet. (featured in today’s arrangement)
Single Chrysanthemums
This group of mums range from small to medium in size and are also fairly common in markets. They have a center disc surrounded by larger flat petals, similar to Daisies. Single mums are also a cluster flower, helping to fill up any bouquet with their brightly colored hues.
They can also make a sweet and simple bouquet all on their own.
How to Arrange Mums
Step by step Instructions
Bouquet contents…
Picking a Vase…
Once you have all the flowers you intend to use, select the correct vase for the job.
For this particular bouquet, I have chosen a medium sized clear vase. This is a great generic vase. You can use it for a multitude of flowers and styles of bouquet. It’s so versatile, it will easily become one of your favorites.
You can find the 8 3/4 in, (size used in this bouquet) on Amazon. To find the same vase but larger, 10 5/8″, as well as other color options, click HERE
Make sure your vase is clean and fill it with water prior to placing your flowers along with any flower food you plan to use.
As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Create Structure
Select a flower that provides structure and creates a base for your bouquet. Start with the yellow Pompom mums. Make sure to trim the stems before placing them in the vase, also determining a suitable height for your bouquet.
As you can see in the photo, I have arranged them with an elevated center, rounding out to the edges. Spread out the mums individually, as they may be compressed together from the packaging. This will help to create a fuller bouquet and more even spacing in your arrangement.
Command Attention!
For this piece, the Quill Mums are the dominant flower due to their bold color and overall appearance. While keeping these leading ladies in mind and the desired shape of the bouquet, evenly disperse them throughout.
Place one in the very center, slightly elevated, surrounded by the others placed near the edges and slightly seated within the Pompoms at varying heights.
Add Depth and Dimension
Crocosmia buds are the perfect detail to give your arrangement a little additional character. They are ridged enough to stand at attention yet curve just enough to seem playful. They are also the perfect piece to act as a “filler.”
Add the Crocosmia all throughout the bouquet, filling in any “holes.” Leave them sticking out above the flowers to give depth, also creating more of a dramatic feel.
Finishing Touches
To round out the arrangement and ensure a cohesive finish, line the outer perimeter of the bouquet with Cypress leaves. These leaves were from a previous bouquet. Fan out the leaves to soften the edges of the arrangement, once again creating depth and dimension.
TIP:
Whenever possible, reuse flowers and greenery from previous arrangements that are still in great shape. Doing so can help reduce cost, allowing you to create fuller arrangements and add more variety to your bouquets.