Sangetsu Principles
There are five main guidelines from Okada's philosophy which serve as the foundation of the Sangetsu School.
Conditioning Flowers
- To condition flowers means to help flowers stay fresh as long as possible.
- Cut your stems on a bias, as this will present more surface of the stem for the absorption of water.
- Always cut with a sharp knife or clippers. Sharp blades cut cleanly through without crushing the stem, so the capillaries in the stem are not squeezed shut.
- Remove any leaves that will be underwater, for they will decompose quickly and cause the water to become laden with bacteria which will deteriorate your flowers and leaves.
- Always keep flowers in clean, fresh water.
- If possible soak plants thoroughly before cutting so that the leaves and petals will be full of water when you cut them.
- Place the flowers in water immediately after cutting them. The capillaries in the stem seal off when they hit the air, making it harder for water to be drawn. If you can cut your stems under water the stems will draw water more easily.
The ideal situation is to cut flowers and branches in the cool of the morning when they are full of water and vitality. Cut them and place them in clean, fresh water, and then arrange them right way. When flowers are purchased from a florist, place them in clean water and cut the stems beneath the water as soon as possible. Let the flowers drink before arranging them.
The most important thing is that you appreciate your flowers, even if your arrangement lasts for only a short time. Enjoy the beauty, and as soon as it starts to fade, dispose of it respectfully. Do not keep an arrangement past its prime.
Sangetsu School teaches that the most important thing is arranging flowers with love and respect for their natural beauty.