Question
I would like to do a really special arrangement of calla lilies for my mum's 4oth wedding anniversary . I have a large goldfish bowl shaped vase and would like to bend the lilies around the inside of the bowl. How do I bend the lilies without snapping or breaking the stems? THANX LOUISE

Answer
Hi Louise - I have not done this type of arrangement with callas but I have done with tulips.  How I do it with tulips is to leave the stems out of water until they begin to go floppy, then I quickly recut the stem,  dip the cut end of the stem into boiling water for a couple of seconds and curl them into the vase then carefully pour in the water.
The recut stem and the searing makes them take up water and sets them in the curved position.
Remember if you totally submerge the flowers they will not last as long as if their petals are out of the water (though they will look fantastic as the water magnifies the blooms).
Best wishes
Jane