The Martha Stewart Show: Tropical Flower Arranging March 2010

THE MARTHA STEWART SHOW, MARCH 2010

When it comes to arranging tropical flowers, florist Oscar Mora lives by one mantra: Less is more.

Even on massive arrangements, he says, using just a few elements can leave a stronger impact than combining many different types of flowers.

In addition to using fresh flowers and adding flower food to the water, Oscar always adds a touch of bleach to prevent bacterial buildup. But don't use too much, and be careful not to get any on your clothes or furniture.

Suggested Arrangements

Oscar brought a few of his favorite tropical arrangements to "The Martha Stewart Show."

Arrangement 1

  • Sago palm leaves

  • Marantha leaves

  • Lady's slipper orchids

Arrangement 2

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Monstera leaves

  • Cymbidium orchids

Arrangement 3

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Cordyline

  • Croton

  • Lady's slipper orchids

  • Dendrobium orchid

Arrangement 4

  • Bird's nest fern

  • Cordyline

  • Calathea

  • Vanda orchid

  • Dendrobium orchid

  • Carnations

Martha Stewart and floral designer Oscar Mora display a variety of exotic, colorful tropical flowers like sago palms from Asia and the South Pacific
Martha Stewart welcomes guests food writer Cybele Pascal, floral designer Oscar Mora and Chandra Wilson from Grey's Anatomy who makes a decorated quilt.
1casey altman