LA Retail Florist Exam Content Actual Updated 2024/2025 Questions and Answers with complete solution
first and foremost basic need of cut flowers
water
second basic need of cut flowers
food
factors affecting quality of cut flowers (7)
1. production
2. transpiration
3. floral food
4. temperature
5. humidity
6. ethylene
7. microbial activity
effect of harvesting flowers too soon/cutting flowers prior to harvest stage
flowers will have difficulty opening and maturing properly and tight buds will never open
effect of harvesting flowers too late/cut past their prime harvest stage
reduced vase life because flowers are too mature
natural loss of water in plants and flowers through stomata
transpiration
energy source for the flower
commercial floral food; sugar
temperature that would accommodate most flowers
36 - 40 degrees
recommended amount of humidity for most flowers stored in the refrigerator
90%
ways to minimize ethylene damage (6)
1. STS pre-treatment
2. ethylene block treatment
3. removal of damaged and unhealthy tissue
4. keep refrigerator clean from old flowers and foliage
5. do not store fruits, vegetables, or evergreens in the refrigerator
6. cooler temperatures of 40 degrees F and below
How does microbial activity reduce vase life of cut flowers?
plugging the stem of flowers reducing the water intake capacity
ways to prevent and keep microbial activity damage to a minimum (2)
1. good sanitation: washing buckets after each use with bleach or bucket wash, washing refrigerator floor once per week, removing foliage from lower stem that would be underwater in the storage container
2. proper use of commercial floral food
3 main ingredients of commercial floral food
1. sugar
2. bio-inhibitor
3. acidifier
2 commonly used bio-inhibitors in commercial floral food
8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (HQC) and Physan
ideal pH of acidic water
3.5 - 5.0
Why use and invest in commercial floral food? (3)
1. commercial floral food is scientifically blended to the correct proportions of sugar, bio-inhibitor, and acidifier
2. commercial floral food is 40-80% more effective in extending vase life
3. commercial floral foods are much less expensive, especially when used on a large scale
Why use commercial floral food if turnover of flowers is rapid?
keeping customers satisfied and providing an excellent product
procedure used prior to the normal usage of floral food
pre-treatment
procedure used after the flowers are already processed in a floral food solution
post-treatment
What is STS?
silver thiosulfate
environmentally friendly treatment that prevents negative effects of ethylene gas that comes in a powdered form and released as a gas and can treat large quantities of flowers at one time
MCP (1-methyleopropene); EthylBloc
lowers pH of water without creating a toxic environment for the flower
citric acid
What does rapid hydration/water uptake using citric acid pre-treatment accomplish? (2)
1. flowers will be completely turgid (full of water) in the shortest time possible
2. completely saturated flowers creates a clean, unobstructed pathway for the follow-up procedure using floral food
How long does the first type of treatment procedure for citric acid take?
1 hour
What is the procedure for the first type of citric acid treatment?
Place freshly cut stem in citric acid solution and stand at room temperature for an hour and then place in high quality floral food solution and put in refrigerator. Do not recut stems prior to placing in the floral food solution.
What is the procedure for the second type of citric acid treatment (quick dip)?
Dip freshly cut stems into the quick dip citric acid solution for 1-2 seconds and then transfer to floral food solution without recutting stems.
act of preparing flowers and foliages for use in designs
processing
Types of flower and foliage processing procedures (6)
1. regular processing
2. underwater cutting processing
3. soaking and submerging processing
4. woody stem processing
5. foliage processing
6. forcing processing
Regular Processing of Flowers steps (5)
1. open floral shipping box or wrapping to assess quantity of buckets/containers needed and prepare floral food solution filling about 1/3 fill
2. process flowers needing citric acid hydration first
3. de-bunch and loosen or remove sleeve or wrapping which may not allow flowers to expand
4. conditioning: all flowers remain in tepid water/floral food solution outside the refrigerator for a period of time until they become turgid
5. hardening: place in refrigerator after absorbing maximum amount of water or reached preferred stage of maturity
What is underwater cutting processing?
place stem ends in a bowl or something that is filled with water and slant cut 1 inch of stem off underwater to prevent air from entering the stem when a droplet of water forms over the stem end when transferring to a holding container
What is the soaking and submerging process of flowers?
stem ends are cut underwater and then entire flower is submerged underwater for 15 to 30 minutes
Woody stem processing of flowers steps (3)
1. slant cut stem ends with sharp pruning shears
2. place in warm water with floral food
3. sometimes an "x" or "t" cut is made with a knife in the stem end to help open the vascular system
What are the two methods of foliage processing and what types of foliage should follow each method?
Method 1: treat foliage as a cut flower and place in buckets of tepid floral food solution; used for round, fluffy types of foliage
Method 2: moisten thoroughly and place in plastic bags or waxed boxes in the cooler; used for flat types of foliage
What is the ideal/optimal atmosphere for force processing of flowers?
warm floral food solution, high humidity, and light
Force processing of flowers steps (3)
1. Place materials that are to be forced in clean buckets containing warm floral food solution
2. Mist with plain water and cover with a clear plastic bag
3. Place in bright, indirect light at room temperature until desired stage of opening
elements of design (7)
1. line
2. form
3. space
4. texture
5. pattern
6. color
7. size
visual path the eye follows to produce motion
line
shape or contour of the individual components in a composition; overall 3 dimensional configuration or shape of a design or composition
form
entire area occupied by the composition itself
space
areas occupied by materials
positive space
part of the composition NOT occupied by materials; open space
negative space
physical surface qualities of plant materials or composition of the arrangement and size of leaves, twigs, or branches on main stems; perceived by sense of touch
texture
texture that is enlarged and less likely to be perceived by touch
pattern
visual response of the eye to various reflected wavelengths and pigments which gives the design energy and personality
color
primary colors
red, yellow, and blue
secondary colors
orange, green, and violet
How are secondary colors made?
mixing of any two primary colors
What colors make orange?
yellow and red
What colors make green?
blue and yellow
What colors make violet?
red and blue
What colors make gray?
white and black mixed or all 3 primary colors mixed (red, blue, yellow)
various usable or pleasing combination of colors (hues)
color harmony
a particular color
hue
pure hue, undiluted with white, black, or gray
chroma
term used to designate the lightness or darkness of a hue
value
any color to which white has been added
tint/pastel
a color to which black has been added
shade
a color grayed by its complement or the addition of gray
tone
How is the value of colors changed?
adding white lessens the color value making it lighter and adding black increases/strengthens the color value making it darker (heavier)
phenomenon in color harmony where the eye automatically notes the complement of a color just registered
after-image
Positive meaning of the color Yellow
cheerful and has the power to dispel gloom like sunshine
Negative meaning of the color Yellow
cowardice or weakness
Positive meaning of the color Red
stimulating, exciting color that has vitality and warmth
Negative meaning of the color Red
anger, danger, or disgrace
Positive meaning of the color Blue
a pleasing color that is quiet, cool, and retiring; has quality of dignity and formality
Negative meaning of the color Blue
depression, melancholy, timidity, and fright
How is the color Orange positively used?
warm with strong decorative value that is best put in shadowy places or deep within an arrangement
Negative meaning of the color Orange (3)
-ghost-like connotation because it is established with black and used on Halloween
-associated with souls in purgatory
-caution and grief
Positive meaning of the color Green (2)
-restful and used in the abatement of excitement (opposite red)
-color of safety and olive branch of peace
Negative meaning of the color Green
non-ripe, nausea, envy, and poison
Positive meaning of the color Violet
dark violets are solemn, dignified, and regal while lighter violets are feminine
Negative meaning of the color Violet
melancholy and aged
color scheme composed entirely of one hue but its value can change up or down the scale (tints, shades, or tones)
monochromatic
color scheme achieved through the use of 3 or more hues in sequence on the chart and attains harmony by having the colors related to each other by a common primary color parent; requires a visible transition from one hue to the other for the sequence to be apparent
analogous
color scheme using opposite colors on the color wheel
complementary
What colors are complements of each other?
-red and green
-blue and orange
-yellow and violet
color scheme that uses the two colors to either side of the actual complement color (tertiary colors)
split complementary
color scheme that is a combination of 3 hues equally spaced on the color chart (i.e. using the 3 primary colors, 3 secondary colors, or 3 tertiary colors together)
triad
color scheme involving any four colors equally spaced on the color wheel
tetrad
color harmony made up of many different hues
polychromatic
color harmony made up of neutral colors and no colors from the color wheel are involved
achromatic
What is color balance?
use strong chroma-vivid or darker values in the focal area and weaker ones (pastels) on the outside
What is color proportion?
the more dominant the color, the less it is used
What is the general color percentage of tints used to create interest, color rhythm, and variety in an arrangement?
50-75%
What is the general color percentage of chroma used to create interest, color rhythm, and variety in an arrangement?
10-15%
What is the general color percentage of shades used to create interest, color rhythm, and variety in an arrangement?
15-25%
primary principles of design (7)
1. proportion
2. balance
3. dominance
4. rhythm
5. harmony
6. unity
7. contrast
compares the relationship of the units of a composition to each other in size, quantity, and degree of emphasis within the composition; relationship of one part to another or one part to the whole design
proportion
ratio between each number of the Fibonacci sequence
1.618... (phi or the golden ratio)
point which divides a line segment into 2 unequal parts that have a ratio of 1.618... or its reciprocal .618...
golden section
What is the proportional guideline of container to flowers?
1 1/2:1 (or 2/3 flower to 1/3 container of the total composition)
state of equilibrium and is achieved when the components of a design are so composed that they give a feeling of stability and security
balance
2 ways to achieve balance
symmetrical and asymmetrical
visual organization of a design that emphasizes one or more aspects; leading character in the materials within an arrangement and in placement of the arrangement in its setting
dominance
area of greatest visual impact or weight; center of interest which naturally attracts the eye
focal area/focal point
Where is the focal point in symmetrical designs?
center
Where is the focal point in asymmetrical designs?
high side of the arrangement
detail added to a design to enhance interest and emphasize other stronger elements
accent
easy visual movement that comes from gradual degrees of change in line, form, color space, pattern, and size; a way to develop harmony and create unity in designs
transition
aesthetic quality created through the pleasing interaction of a combination of components in a composition
harmony
oneness of purpose, thought, style, and spirit; organization of components into a harmonious whole resulting in a cohesive relationship of all parts (blend of components)
unity
What is the difference between unity and harmony?
unity is the relationship between the individual components of a composition whereas harmony is the overall relationship between all the components, the theme, the mood, and the final effect of the design
difference between objects when they are placed next to each other
contrast
basic similarity but with minor differences
variation
total contrast that brings about contradiction in a design
opposition
dynamic aesthetic quality expressing action or the force of energy within or upon a design component by the skillful use of contrast
tension
What is the secondary principle of design of proportion? (1)
scale
What is the secondary principle of design of dominance? (3)
1. focal area/focal point
2. accent
3. emphasis
What is the secondary principle of design of rhythm? (3)
1. depth
2. repetition
3. transition
What is the secondary principle of design of contrast? (3)
1. variation
2. opposition
3. tension
7 Primary Categories of Design Styles
1. Ikebana
2. Vegetative
3. Geometric
4. Formalinear
5. Parallel
6. Interpretive
7. Abstract
harmonious arrangement and balance of all elements and principles for the development of a single idea or theme; has unity of composition and is compatible with its setting in order to create a concordant whole, where the surroundings as well as the single unit are seen
design
the relative ratio of size or the relationship of the size of the composition to the surrounding area/environment
scale
the special attention or importance given to one or more areas within a design
emphasis
visual movement through a design, usually achieved through repetition or gradation
rhythm
placement of materials at different levels within and around an arrangement, which imparts a three dimensional quality to a floral composition
depth
the recurrence of like elements within a composition
repetition
4 Basic Classifications of Stem Placement
1. radial
2. parallel
3. abstract
4. integrated
stem placement of materials arranged like rays coming from a common center
radial
stem placement of two or more lines that have the same direction and with continuous equal space in between them
parallel
non-realistic placement of stems with no relation to a growth point or a water source and is done solely to give form to direction or mood and create a new visual image in space
abstract
placement of stems that is a combination of two or more of the basic stem placement classifications
integrated
Where did the Ikebana design style first originate
China
design style that is characterized by 3 segments that form an asymmetrical triangle: Shin (spiritual truth) that stands upright, She (harmonizer) that leans away from the upright, and Tai (material substance) that is leans lower on the opposite side or heaven, man, and earth
Ikebana
variation of the Ikebana design style that expresses simplicity, naturalism, and informality
Nageire
variation of the Ikebana design style where the 3 segments are placed in a low-type container, which permitted a greater abundance of flowers and foliage
Moribana
naturalistic design style in which flowers and plant materials are placed the way they grow
vegetative
design style with a definite geometric shape composed of line, mass, or line-mass concepts, with radial stem placements
geometric
In geometric designs, how is the basic skeletal structure established?
placement of the first 3 main lines/stems: first stem sets the height, second stem gives the width in one direction, and the third stem establishes the overall size or width in the opposite direction
What shape is the Hogarth curve?
"S" curve
How is Hogarth curve design style made?
-the upper segment of the circle is designed generally larger than the bottom portion to create better visual balance
-the upper curve has to to defy gravity so wire or other mechanics must be used
Height of arrangements for dinner tables
14 inches or less unless the dinner is very formal
What are the steps in creating a geometric design style? (3)
1. develop a mental picture of the shape of the piece to be made
2. establish the shape with the skeleton flowers
3. addition of secondary flowers and foliage within the established pattern
an asymmetrically balanced design of interesting materials, each of which is few in number and usually grouped, that emphasizes forms and lines usually using radial stem placement and generous use of space
formalinear
What principles of design are successful formalinear designs built from?
principles of contrast (opposition, variation, and tension) and then principles of harmony and unity follow
design concept in which the individual stems or groups of stems are placed in the same direction and are always the same distance apart from end to end
parallel
style of creative design inspired by unconventional ideas, styles, and non-geometric patterns yet adhering to the elements and principles of design
free-form
organization of design elements to suggest a given theme, idea, occasion, mood, or atmosphere
interpretive
design style that implies a freedom of expression with a particular design goal in mind
free-form interpretive
What are the two groups of free-form interpretive design styles?
realistic and non-realistic
interpretive design style that follows the dictates of nature and tradition, though free of geometric pattern and its rules of organization
realistic
interpretive design style that has unusual use of materials producing form that is striking and bizarre with no illusion to reality; approaching the abstract
non-realistic
design style with non-realistic use of natural or man-made materials solely as elements of pure line, form, color, and texture in space to create new images and gives form to vision by expressing emotion through an intellectual process; take from materials removed from nature and use in unexpected form to emphasize a point
abstract
Progressive steps of traditional designs in which abstract design has evolved (6)
1. classic
2. romantic
3. realistic
4. geometric
5. free-form interpretive
6. abstract
design described as establishing a standard of excellence, timeless, and work of enduring worth as influenced by ancient Greece or Rome
classic
design described as visionary, strongly emotional, passionate, and and dominated by beauty
romantic
design described as a faithful reproduction of nature, photographic, objective with one point perspective, and seeing the world as it is - everyday themes
realistic
design described as reflecting perfect order and definite mathematical design and pattern
geometric
design described as pure which evolves its own concept, independent of preconceived pattern, intrinsic value expressed in aesthetic beauty, and expressive with unlimited imagination
free-form interpretive
4 major groups of flower types
1. line
2. mass
3. form
4. filler
flowers that are generally erect, tall spikes of blossoms with florets blooming along the stem; establishes pattern, sets proportion, and is the framework or skeleton on which the design is built
line flowers
Examples of line flowers (6)
-gladiolus
-larkspur
-delphinium
-stock
-snapdragon
-cattail
flowers that are single stems with one solid head and are placed toward the focal point within the framework of linear materials, which adds volume to the design
mass flowers
Examples of mass flowers (6)
-chrysanthemum
-dahlia
-peony
-rose
-carnation
-aster
flowers that have distinctive shapes and are frequently used in the focal area due to their strong individuality and distinctiveness
form flowers
Examples of form flowers (4)
-bird of paradise
-anthurium
-calla
-lily
flowers that are used in the background and low in the arrangement adding emphasis to the main blossoms
filler flowers
type of filler flower that generally have many stems with small mass-type heads
branched fillers
type of filler flowers that give a misty, delicate appearance to an arrangement
feathery fillers
Examples of branched filler flowers (3)
-micro mini spray chrysanthemums
-spray asters
-feverfew
Examples of feathery filler flowers (3)
-gypsophila
-caspia
-seafoam statice
What is considered a good soil mixture for potted plants?
Soil should be damp enough when squeezed in the hand but not so damp that it does not crumble when dropped on a surface from the height of one foot
What happens when soil is so dry that it's powdery?
should be sprinkled and turned over several times a few hours before being used for potting
How should soil containing peat moss be handled?
moistened thoroughly before being used to prevent competing with the plant for water
most common watering malpractice
over-watering
basic principles of plant and watering maintenance (3)
1. most plants can withstand wilting better than over-watering
2. plants with thick, fleshy leaves are more likely to withstand hazards of dry soil
3. plants with large, thin leaves lose water rapidly since they have no water reserves and wilt sooner if soil does not supply more
How to water potted plants?
Water thoroughly so that all of the soil is completely soaked and drips from the bottom of the pot.
most important factor in growth of potted plants
light
ideal temperature for potted plants
65 - 76 degrees during the day and 55 - 60 degrees at night
ideal temperature for potted foliage plants
65 - 70 degrees
ideal amount of humidity for potted plants
40% - 60%
How to keep house interior humid for plants? (3)
1. humidifier
2. misting over leaves with distilled water daily
3. grouping plants together
How often should house plants be fertilized?
once a month
Most common insects affecting interior plants (4)
1. aphids
2. spider mites
3. scale
4. mealy bugs
How can insect infestations of interior plants be controlled? (3)
-rinsing affected areas with a mild solution of soap and water
-applying rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab
-commercial insecticides or insecticide soaps
materials used for pot trims (7)
-polyfoil
-preformed plastic covers
-burlap
-cellophane
-straw hats
-fabric
-unique ceramic and plastic containers
How should the length of the polyfoil be determined?
size of the plant and not the size of the pot
most important factor to remember when using wicker baskets as containers
baskets must be lined to be waterproof to protect furniture from moisture
plant that can be used to waterproof basket containers
moss
type of moss that is the most practical waterproof liner cover
ground moss/sheet moss
type of moss that is more useful as a decorative camouflage to hide mechanics
Spanish moss
Points to keep in mind when using moss as a waterproof liner (3)
-shake excess debris and spray with floral sealer to prevent from shedding
-add green moss floral spray to keep color from fading
-do not allow moss edges to overlap container because it will act as a siphon and draw moisture from watered plant
When are dish gardens most successful?
when they are built around one specific theme or idea
basic difference between designing a dish garden and designing a floral arrangement
dish gardens will grow and change its characteristics and floral arrangements will not
type of dish garden that is usually made by grouping a collection of tropical plants that enjoy the same growing conditions
traditional dish gardens
type of dish garden where usually one or more blooming plants are combined with foliage plants
European-style dish garden
typical size of pots used in dish gardens
2 - 4 inch pots
Oriental culture of dwarfing plants and recreating nature in miniature
Bonsai
General rules of caring for bonsai (4)
-pot must not dry out causing the plant to wither from killing the roots
-fed periodically to keep healthy
-repotting at least every 2 years
-use good, loose potting soil mixture and sand
Classifications of bonsai according type of growth (2)
1. formal
2. informal
Classifications of bonsai according to style of growth (5)
1. formal upright
2. informal upright
3. slanting
4. semi-cascading
5. full-cascade
Classifications of bonsai according to size of growth (4)
1. Mame: not taller than 5 inches
2. Ko: 6 - 12 inches
3. Chiu: 12 - 20 inches
4. Dai: 2 feet or more in height
any object or substance that is used to hold stems securely in position within the container
flower stem holder or "frog"
most common type of container mechanic
floral foam/wet foam
Different uses of wire (9)
1. curve stem into position or line desired
2. strengthen crooked stem
3. strengthen weak stem and prevent drooping
4. group small stemmed flowers into mass effects
5. stabilize the arrangement
6. construct a composite flower
7. reduce weight in corsages and wedding bouquets by replacing stems
8. prevent flowers from showing wilt in arrangements made without water
9. add strength and rigidity to stems
How to wire mass-type flowers?
insertion method by inserting the wire into the head only with the remaining portion of the wire brought down around the stem with a few turns
wiring method used for foliage and petals for corsage and wedding work
hairpin method
living jewelry that accents a lady's charm
corsages
deciding factors in the selection of flowers, ribbons, and design of the corsage (3)
1. occasion
2. costume
3. individual
important elements, principles, and concepts applying specifically to corsage designs (6)
-security
-proportion
-compactness
-focal point
-balance
-weight
How is balance achieved with corsages?
smaller flowers are placed on the edges and the larger flowers are placed toward the center of the design
How is weight important to corsages?
must be light and airy since it may be worn on lacy, fragile materials
most popular place on the body to wear flowers
shoulder
informal corsage design where flowers are grouped together so that they radiate from one point
round designs
corsage design where the upper portion is longer and is curved backward over the shoulder in order to fit the contour and lie snugly in place and where the lower section of the corsage is below the center of gravity (focal point) which is the place where all the stems are taped together
crescent designs
corsage design that departs from geometric shapes and the materials themselves dictate the design shape or style as defined in Free Form - Interpretative Design, realistic interpretation
informal clusters
type of wire used in corsage work
No. 28 or lighter weight wire
made by threading blossoms on dental floss, kite string, or fine wire using a needle to thread through the bottom of one blossom, out its face, and into the bottom of the next
leis
flower that is versatile and popular for corsage designs with a spicy aroma and long-lasting quality of blossoms
carnations
popular technique for creating delicate corsages where a flower is cut into several pieces and each piece is wired and taped and then reassembled into a small version of the original; also known as Frenching
feathering
rose corsage that is made using a three quarter opened blossom for the center and petals of the more opened roses are wired and taped around it
Victorian rose
rose corsage that uses a larger rose at the center of interest and has outer petals reflexed (turned backward) to add weight needed in tying in the focal area where the lines of the corsage come together
camellia rose
wiring method for fleshy-stemmed flowers
insertion method
How are tubular or trumpet shaped blossoms wired?
make a hairpin shaped wire and push it completely down the throat of the flower through the base so that the wire ends come out parallel on each side of the stem
small plastic vials of water intended to supply a small quantity of water to one or two flowers for a short period of time
water tube picks
small plastic disks with four prongs to impale floral foam or styrofoam
anchor pins
strong anchoring device made if wooden picks attached to opposite ends of a flexible metal strip
dixon pins
similar to straight pins with a glass or plastic bead attached to the end for decoration
corsage or boutonniere pins
waterproof adhesive tape used primarily to hold floral foam in place, which must be applied to a dry surface and can withstand moist conditions after attachment
anchor tape
similar to anchor tape, except it's transparent and not waterproof
clear tape
liquid glue used to secure fresh flowers or foliage to containers or foundation, repairing damaged flowers, and waterproof once completely dry
floral adhesive
soft, putty like material commonly used to anchor needle holders to containers
floral clay
How is ribbon width expressed?
No. 1 is the narrowest to No. 120 which is the widest
When are bows placed in arrangements?
special occasions and to complete the "gift wrap" on potted plants
Should ribbon be used with boutonnieres?
no
How are the flowers of boutonnieres constructed?
Boutonnieres of all flowers are wired and taped leaving only a short stem.
How are boutonnieres placed on suits?
pinned to the lapel and look as though it goes through the buttonhole because buttonholes are not cut on many suits and should only be cut at the wish of the owner
Who selects and influences the flower choice for bouquets?
The bride selects the flowers and her gown and stature will influence the choice.
traditional method of constructing a bridal bouquet
wiring and taping method
advantages of the wiring and taping method of bridal bouquets (2)
-creates a bouquet of greater delicacy and less weight
-more leeway in bending stems into desired positions
disadvantages of the wiring and taping method of bridal bouquets (2)
-additional design time
-lack of a water source
practical device that decreases design time and provides a water source for wedding bouquets
plastic bouquet holder
What determines the length of the stems in Unit 1 of the bridal bouquet?
height of bride and ornamentation on the front of the dress
bouquet design that is excellent for informal weddings and is suitable for a wide range of semi-formal and informal gowns and dresses
circular - round bouquets
How is the handle of a circular - round bouquet designed?
Handle is straight and pointing downward keeping the weight and balance on top of the bride's hand and not front heavy and uncomfortable.
bouquet design when the bridal gown is formal with a full skirt and train
cascade bouquet
How is a cascade bouquet designed?
combination of the center circular grouping (unit 1) and the lower garland (unit 2)
How is the cascade garland portion of a cascade bouquet designed?
Stems are taped, not twisted together, to a taped No. 18 or 20 wire, which will serve as the backbone of the cascade.
act of pushing a wire or corsage pin crosswise through the flower stem once it is deep in the foam
cross-pinning
bouquet design that is lovely for almost any type of girl and ideal for when bridesmaids in a bridal party are of various heights
crescent bouquets
How is the crescent bouquet used when the bridal party is of various heights?
bouquet is almost vertical in the hands of a short girl by adding line to appearance and is carried horizontally by taller girls with points of design pointing downward softening the line of height
How the crescent bouquet designed?
center circular grouping and two curved garlands (same as a cascade bouquet with addition of unit 3)
bouquet design for the large, formal cathedral wedding
triangular cascade bouquet
How is the triangular cascade bouquet assembled?
consists of a center circular grouping and 3 garland sections (assembled like the crescent bouquet design adding unit 4 to the opposite side to form the triangle)
How are pages in a prayer book marked to be read in the wedding ceremony?
streamers
Points to remember when designing baskets (3)
-use approximately one-fourth of the material behind the handle of the basket to prevent arrangement from being front heavy and falling forward
-flower establishing height should be 6 inches or more above the handle
-focal point of design should be at the upper edge of the basket rim where all stems converge and not on the handle of the basket
3 Basic Methods for Designing Funeral Sprays
1. tied
2. picked
3. wet foam
Disadvantage of tied sprays
requires a special display rack and most funeral homes do not have these display stands
Advantage of tied sprays
quick and economical to make
Advantages of wet foam sprays
provision of water and elimination of labor-intensive picks
sprays that are mounted on easels
standing sprays
Points to remember about easels (2)
-lifts design for better display
-be sure it is strong enough to support the size and weight of the spray
2 Sections of a Wreath
1. cluster which is the focal point
2. remaining portion of the circle
shape of the cluster on wreaths
mound-shaped, not flat
What is the general size of easels?
3 times the size of the wreath; wreath will cover 1/3 to 1/2 of its stand
How should lettering be incorporated in sympathy designs?
letters should be secured to a piece of ribbon with glue or staples and used as a streamer flowing out of the focal point where it would be attached with a pick or lettered ribbon can be stretched across the center and held in place with pins if the design permits
focal point of the latin cross
place where the arms cross
focal point of pillow designs
usually designed on the upper left side
six-pointed star consisting of two equilateral triangles, one pointing up and the other pointing down
Star of David
five-pointed star with one point facing downward and never varying from this position
Eastern Star
design made of a carpenter's square with ends of arms pointing upward and shape of a compass is placed on top of the square directed downward overlaying the arms of the square with a letter "G" centered in the design
Masonic Emblem
emblem made of a Maltese cross on which a shield is superimposed
Knights of Columbus
placed on the entrance of a home or business established of the deceased to signify that a death has occurred
door spray
most prominent design floral arrangement at a funeral
casket cover
How are casket covers generally designed?
fashioned to soften lines of the casket
size of flowers in casket covers
not be over 10 - 12 inches above the casket so they will easily fit into the funeral car
What is the size of a single casket spray?
covers one-half or three-fourths of a casket
Where is the focal point of a single casket spray?
either centered or placed to one end of the design toward the head of the casket
When the casket is opened, where should the single casket spray be placed?
placed on the lower half with the focal point closer to the opening with flowers/foliage/accessories not extending down into the casket but do cover the edge of the opening
Where is the focal point of a double casket spray?
center with flowers flowing out equally to either side
When the casket is opened, where is the double casket spray placed?
the lower half placed on the casket and the other portion is placed on a stand at the head of the casket
foundations made of wire or hard plastic where all casket sprays are constructed, which are made with curved legs that have rubber pads to prevent from slipping or scratching the casket
saddles
What generally makes up the base of casket sprays?
flat fern or Chamaedorea used as the foundation green
Steps to make a traditional casket spray (3)
1. foliage and skeleton flowers placed first
2. mass flowers added to framework to give volume
3. filler flowers and secondary foliages added
How is a casket blanket constructed? (7)
-cut a layer of burlap
-place layer of two inch mesh chicken wire over it
-add second layer of burlap
-sew layers together with No. 28 spool were or green florist thread
-place layer of waterproof sheeting over foundation
-add layer of fern or foliage flowers that are wired using the single-prong or double-prong method
-sew or glue felt or other soft, substantial fabric to the underside of the foundation after all flowers have been added and wires checked for protrusions
How is the casket in a military service designed?
casket is covered with an American flag and no flowers are ever placed on the flag as long as it is covering the casket
How many members are in the Horticulture Commission of Louisiana?
13
When is the licensed retail florist appointed as a member of the of the Commission?
appointed during the second year of each administration from a list of 3 persons nominated by the LA State Florists Association, Inc. and will serve a term of 4 calendar years beginning with the year of appointment
document issued by the commissioner authorizing the holder to engage in the profession indicated thereon
license
container or means of conveyance from which cut flowers or nursery stock are sold
mobile unit
mobile unit or place of business
outlet
document issued by the commissioner authorizing the holder to engage in the occupation indicated thereon
permit
any climate controlled mechanical, electric, or electronic self-service device which, upon insertion of money, credit card, token, or any other form of payment, automatically dispenses merchandise
vending machine
What job is an occupation and what job is a profession?
profession: retail florist
occupation: cut flower dealer
What is the license fee issued or renewed by the commissioner?
$100/license
What is the late fee for renewing a license or permit more than 15 working days after it has expired?
$25/late application
Who compiles the questions for the retail florist examination? (3)
Louisiana State Florists Association, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry
When is a renewal considered delayed?
fails to renew license for 3 successive years
What is the fee for a delayed renewal of a license?
not exceed 3 times the normal renewal fee, which is in addition to the late renewal registration fee
Maximum number of vending machines that can be operated by a licensed florist
5
What should be displayed inside the vending machines?
name of licensed florist and address and telephone number
How are vending machines monitored?
at least once each business day by licensed florist or someone under direct supervision
How far can a licensed florist operate a vending machine?
not more than 25 miles beyond their place of business
When does a license or permit expire?
January 31st each year
Examples of violations of the Chapter (8)
-working in the occupation/profession, receiving income, and advertising without a license or permit
-failing to abide by cease and desist orders or stop orders
-performing fraudulent practice or intentionally misrepresenting any matter related to work
-altering, forging, counterfeiting, or using without authority any license or permit or document
-knowingly permitting any person under direct supervision to violate any provision
-failing to comply with continuing education requirements
-failing to pay a timely fee, penalty, or cost
-failing to meet appropriate standards of practice
Under what provisions are adjudicatory proceedings held?
Administrative Procedure Act
civil penalty for each violation when the person has not been found guilty in a prior adjudicatory proceeding
not more than $250 each
civil penalty for each violation when the person has been found guilty in a prior adjudicatory proceeding
not more than $500 each
civil penalty for each violation when the person has been found guilty in two or more prior adjudicatory proceedings
not more than $1000 each
Amount of time upon notice of license revocation or suspension that a license should be returned to the commission
15 days
How long can a retail florist operate after losing the services of a full-time licensed florist?
90 day grace period
When a retail florist shop loses its licensed retail florist, how often can they use the grace period?
once in a 12-month period
Can retail florists rent potted ornamental plants for special events?
yes, if normally and customarily sold by florists and do not require maintenance other than normal watering
establishes pattern if spray designs
placement of first 8 blossoms
desirable shape when placing the first 6 blossoms in spray designs
oval or arrow-shape
shape to avoid when placing the first 6 blossoms in spray designs
round, "bunched" designs or long, narrow ones
What does a bow represent in spray designs?
tie: all lines of foliage and flowers radiate from this point and give the appearance that the ribbon is tying them together
When there are few blossoms used in a spray, how much greenery should be used?
proportional to the quantity of blossoms so it will not overwhelm the flowers
What color should the bow be in sprays with few blossoms?
same color as the flowers because a contrasting color will reduce the impact on the eye
Content preview
LA Retail Florist Exam Content Actual Updated
2024/2025 Questions and Answers with complete solution
first and foremost basic need of cut flowers
water
second basic need of cut flowers
food
factors affecting quality of cut flowers (7)
1. production
2. transpiration
3. floral food
4. temperature
5. humidity
6. ethylene
7. microbial activity
effect of harvesting flowers too soon/cutting flowers prior to harvest stage
flowers will have difficulty opening and maturing properly and tight buds will never
open
effect of harvesting flowers too late/cut past their prime harvest stage
reduced vase life because flowers are too mature
natural loss of water in plants and flowers through stomata
transpiration
energy source for the flower
commercial floral food; sugar
temperature that would accommodate most flowers
36 - 40 degrees
recommended amount of humidity for most flowers stored in the refrigerator
90%
ways to minimize ethylene damage (6)
1. STS pre-treatment
2. ethylene block treatment
3. removal of damaged and unhealthy tissue
4. keep refrigerator clean from old flowers and foliage
5. do not store fruits, vegetables, or evergreens in the refrigerator
6. cooler temperatures of 40 degrees F and below
How does microbial activity reduce vase life of cut flowers?
plugging the stem of flowers reducing the water intake capacity
ways to prevent and keep microbial activity damage to a minimum (2)
1. good sanitation: washing buckets after each use with bleach or bucket wash,
washing refrigerator floor once per week, removing foliage from lower stem that
would be underwater in the storage container
2. proper use of commercial floral food
3 main ingredients of commercial floral food
1. sugar
2. bio-inhibitor
3. acidifier
2 commonly used bio-inhibitors in commercial floral food
8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (HQC) and Physan
,ideal pH of acidic water
3.5 - 5.0
Why use and invest in commercial floral food? (3)
1. commercial floral food is scientifically blended to the correct proportions of sugar,
bio-inhibitor, and acidifier
2. commercial floral food is 40-80% more effective in extending vase life
3. commercial floral foods are much less expensive, especially when used on a large
scale
Why use commercial floral food if turnover of flowers is rapid?
keeping customers satisfied and providing an excellent product
procedure used prior to the normal usage of floral food
pre-treatment
procedure used after the flowers are already processed in a floral food
solution
post-treatment
What is STS?
silver thiosulfate
environmentally friendly treatment that prevents negative effects of ethylene
gas that comes in a powdered form and released as a gas and can treat large
quantities of flowers at one time
MCP (1-methyleopropene); EthylBloc
lowers pH of water without creating a toxic environment for the flower
citric acid
What does rapid hydration/water uptake using citric acid pre-treatment
accomplish? (2)
1. flowers will be completely turgid (full of water) in the shortest time possible
2. completely saturated flowers creates a clean, unobstructed pathway for the follow-
up procedure using floral food
How long does the first type of treatment procedure for citric acid take?
1 hour
What is the procedure for the first type of citric acid treatment?
Place freshly cut stem in citric acid solution and stand at room temperature for an
hour and then place in high quality floral food solution and put in refrigerator. Do not
recut stems prior to placing in the floral food solution.
What is the procedure for the second type of citric acid treatment (quick dip)?
Dip freshly cut stems into the quick dip citric acid solution for 1-2 seconds and then
transfer to floral food solution without recutting stems.
act of preparing flowers and foliages for use in designs
processing
Types of flower and foliage processing procedures (6)
1. regular processing
2. underwater cutting processing
3. soaking and submerging processing
4. woody stem processing
5. foliage processing
6. forcing processing
Regular Processing of Flowers steps (5)
1. open floral shipping box or wrapping to assess quantity of buckets/containers
needed and prepare floral food solution filling about 1/3 fill
2. process flowers needing citric acid hydration first
, 3. de-bunch and loosen or remove sleeve or wrapping which may not allow flowers
to expand
4. conditioning: all flowers remain in tepid water/floral food solution outside the
refrigerator for a period of time until they become turgid
5. hardening: place in refrigerator after absorbing maximum amount of water or
reached preferred stage of maturity
What is underwater cutting processing?
place stem ends in a bowl or something that is filled with water and slant cut 1 inch
of stem off underwater to prevent air from entering the stem when a droplet of water
forms over the stem end when transferring to a holding container
What is the soaking and submerging process of flowers?
stem ends are cut underwater and then entire flower is submerged underwater for 15
to 30 minutes
Woody stem processing of flowers steps (3)
1. slant cut stem ends with sharp pruning shears
2. place in warm water with floral food
3. sometimes an "x" or "t" cut is made with a knife in the stem end to help open the
vascular system
What are the two methods of foliage processing and what types of foliage
should follow each method?
Method 1: treat foliage as a cut flower and place in buckets of tepid floral food
solution; used for round, fluffy types of foliage
Method 2: moisten thoroughly and place in plastic bags or waxed boxes in the
cooler; used for flat types of foliage
What is the ideal/optimal atmosphere for force processing of flowers?
warm floral food solution, high humidity, and light
Force processing of flowers steps (3)
1. Place materials that are to be forced in clean buckets containing warm floral food
solution
2. Mist with plain water and cover with a clear plastic bag
3. Place in bright, indirect light at room temperature until desired stage of opening
elements of design (7)
1. line
2. form
3. space
4. texture
5. pattern
6. color
7. size
visual path the eye follows to produce motion
line
shape or contour of the individual components in a composition; overall 3
dimensional configuration or shape of a design or composition
form
entire area occupied by the composition itself
space
areas occupied by materials
positive space
part of the composition NOT occupied by materials; open space
negative space