Sustainability goes beyond being a trend; it represents a dedication to improving practices and utilizing better materials. One area where this commitment is essential is the use of floral foam, which is frequently misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions. Thankfully, our partner Smithers-Oasis has introduced the Know Foam initiative to clarify the facts about their OASIS® Floral Foam. Let’s explore some common myths that they have tested and debunked!
There are several common misconceptions about OASIS® Floral Foam that need clarification. First, contrary to the belief that OASIS® Floral Foam is carcinogenic or toxic, it is actually safe and not considered a health or physical hazard based on GHS classification. Another myth suggests that floral foam, in general, is dangerous, but as an article states, floral foam doesn’t release or expose users to hazardous chemicals under normal use. The concern about biodegradability is also addressed with OASIS® Floral Foam Maxlife, which degrades by 75% within a year in an anaerobic environment, making it a more sustainable option than traditional floral foams. Some might believe floral foam is bad for the environment, but for those conscious of its environmental impact, OASIS® Floral Foam Maxlife provides an eco-friendly choice.
The idea that floral foam is difficult to work with is also untrue; designing with foam is easy once you learn the basics, and you can enhance your skills through Oasis University’s SKILLS SERIES. Another misconception is that every container must be entirely filled with foam, but that’s unnecessary—varying stem lengths and proper watering techniques ensure effective use. Not all floral foam is the same; OASIS® Floral Foam undergoes rigorous testing to ensure top quality, unlike other foams.
Lastly, there’s the myth that some flowers can’t be used in floral foam, but OASIS® Floral Foam is specially formulated to maximize the life of all flowers, making it versatile for all kinds of arrangements. If you want to learn even more about OASIS® Floral Foam and other design foundations they provide, check out this blog!
Smithers-Oasis’s Know Foam initiative promotes accurate information about floral foam. For more debunked myths, check out the Know Foam page here. By clarifying these misconceptions, we can help florists make informed choices while embracing sustainable practices. As the industry continues to innovate, staying educated on the tools we use to craft our floral designs is crucial. So, the next time you reach for floral foam, you can do so with confidence and knowledge!
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About Smithers- Oasis
Since our start in 1954, when V. L. Smithers revolutionized the floral industry by creating water-absorbing foam for florists, Smithers-Oasis has grown into a leading global manufacturer and marketer of floral foam, floral accessory products, cellular growing media, postharvest products, temperature-controlled packaging, and specialized foams.
Florists and growers worldwide can rely on OASIS® branded items to produce their designs and build their businesses thanks to their distribution partners, including wholesalers and distributors. FloraLife® Post-Harvest Products provide the industry with a full range of care and handling options. This took more than 70 years of research and development to perfect!