Vases for every bouquet, branch and single stem

The right vase depends on the flowers. A tall, narrow vase holds branches and long stems upright, a wide bowl suits short, loose bouquets, and a small bud vase gives one stem its own moment. Glass shows the stems, stoneware and ceramic hide them and look good empty.

Our first pieces are on their way. We are choosing them one by one from European workshops and makers. Tell me when they arrive.

Buying guide

How to choose a vase

Vases are worth choosing in a small family of shapes rather than one at a time, so there is always one that suits whatever comes home from the florist or the garden.

Match height to the flowers

As a rule, the flowers should stand about one and a half to two times the height of the vase. Cut stems to suit, at an angle, and remove any leaves that would sit under the water.

Choose the neck for the bouquet

A narrow neck holds a few stems upright without help. A wide opening needs more flowers or a little support, such as a grid of tape across the top. Bottle and bud vases suit one to three stems.

Glass, stoneware or ceramic

Glass shows clean water and stems, so change the water often. Recycled and hand blown glass often has small bubbles, which are part of the material. Stoneware and glazed ceramic hide stems and look good on a shelf when empty. Check that ceramic pieces are glazed inside, since unglazed clay can seep.

Where to place them

Keep arrangements on a dining table low enough to talk over. Tall vases with branches work on the floor, a sideboard or a console. Group two or three of different heights in the same material.

Cleaning

Wash with warm soapy water after each bouquet. For cloudy glass or a narrow neck, leave a solution of white vinegar and water overnight, or shake with a little rice and water.

Frequently asked questions

How tall should flowers be compared with the vase?

Around one and a half to two times the height of the vase usually looks balanced.

How do I clean a vase with a narrow neck?

Fill it with warm water, white vinegar and a spoonful of rice, shake, leave to soak, then rinse.

Are ceramic vases waterproof?

Glazed ceramic is. Unglazed clay can seep, so check the inside is glazed or use a glass liner.