History of floristry

Ancient History of Floristry

• Flowers played a huge role in ancient Egyptian society for religious ceremonies and burials, with evidence dating back to 2500BC.
• In ancient Greece and Rome, floral designs were integral to religious rituals and public gatherings; particular flowers represented the gods.
• Ancient China also saw great significance in flowers. Chrysanthemums, for example, symbolised longevity and good health.

Floristry in the Middle Ages and Renaissance

• During the Middle Ages, flowers were mainly used for medicinal purposes and monastic kitchen gardens.
• The Renaissance period saw a resurgence in the use of flowers for decorative purposes.

Floristry in the Victorian Era

• The Victorian era was known for its ‘language of flowers’; specific species were chosen to convey messages.
• The Industrial Revolution in the Victorian era made the transportation of flowers possible, helping the floristry industry to boom.

Contemporary Floristry

• The 20th and 21st century has seen a shift towards more creative floral design and increased use of diverse materials.
• Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, has greatly influenced Western floristry.
• The role of technology has become important in contemporary floristry, with online flower retailers and advances in flower preservation.

Significance of Floristry in Today’s Industry

• Floristry plays a significant role in life’s events, such as weddings and funerals.
• There’s a demand for floristry skills in sectors such as hospitality, events, TV/film set design and window displays.
• The sector provides employment for thousands across the world, both in retail and creative industries.

Understanding Sustainability in Floristry

• Sustainability has become a key concern in the flower industry, with emphasis on seasonal and local produce.
• Using recyclable and compostable materials in floral designs is also an important trend.