The Olde Ripton Garden Club members decided to explore using chicken wire pillows instead of floral foam when they held their flower arranging workshop in October. Most of the members had never used chicken wire for arranging and after learning that floral foam contains the same amount of plastic as 10 plastic shopping bags, is non-biodegradable, non-recyclable and toxic for both humans and animals – well, all were happy to learn a new method.
Two members cut all the chicken wire and skewer sticks, made the pillows, and purchased inexpensive, reusable plastic bases in two sizes. Many of the members brought their own containers as well. Members brought in flowers and fillers from their gardens and the club supplemented with a few purchased mums. There was an amazing selection of flowers even in autumn. Hydrangeas, marigolds, grasses, foliage and dahlias abounded. The members worked in groups with a leader for each group providing guidance and assisting with the new approach. The result was gorgeous flower arrangements with reusable components and less plastic waste – and garden club members proud of their new skills and designs.
Article by Renee Marsh, Old Ripton Garden Club.
