What flowers will I work with on the Level 1 Floristry course?

You will typically work with common, commercially available flowers such as roses, carnations, chrysanthemums, lilies, gerberas, and alstroemeria, along with foliage like eucalyptus, ivy, and ferns. The exact selection may vary by centre, but the focus is on species that are easy to condition and widely used in entry-level floristry.

Do I need to buy my own tools for the floristry certificate?

Most centres provide basic tools like secateurs, scissors, and knives for use during class, but you may wish to purchase your own for practice at home. Essential tools include a sharp pair of floristry scissors, a knife, and a stem stripper. Check with your centre for their specific policy.

Can I progress to a Level 2 qualification after this certificate?

Yes, this Level 1 certificate is designed as a foundation for further study. Many students go on to take the ABC Level 2 Certificate in Floristry, which covers more advanced techniques like wedding bouquets, funeral tributes, and larger display designs. It also opens up opportunities for apprenticeships or junior florist roles.

How long do fresh flowers last after conditioning?

With proper conditioning, most cut flowers last between 5 to 10 days, depending on the species. For example, roses may last 5-7 days, while chrysanthemums can last up to 14 days. Factors like temperature, humidity, and ethylene exposure affect longevity. Always use clean water and flower food to maximise vase life.

What is the difference between a hand-tied bouquet and a vase arrangement?

A hand-tied bouquet is designed to be held or given as a gift, with stems spiralled and bound tightly so they can be placed in a vase later. A vase arrangement is constructed directly in a container, using mechanics like floral foam or a pin holder to secure stems. The design principles are similar, but the construction methods differ.

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Q: How is the Level 1 Certificate in Practical Floristry Skills assessed?

Assessment is entirely practical and portfolio-based. You will complete a series of tasks such as preparing flowers, making a hand-tied bouquet, creating a vase arrangement, and constructing a buttonhole. Your work is observed by an assessor who uses criteria like technique, creativity, and safety. There are no written exams.

SKILLS AND EDUCATION GROUP AWARDS

vocational

This element introduces learners to fundamental plant care tasks, including watering, feeding, and identifying signs of pests or disease. It covers safe and effective methods for weed control and emphasizes the importance of following health and safety protocols in a floristry or horticultural setting. Mastery of these skills underpins the creation of healthy, attractive floral displays and ensures a safe working environment.

Learning Outcomes

Assessment Guidance

Key Skills

Key Terms

Assessment Criteria

Assessment criteria

SEG Awards ABC Level 1 Certificate in Practical Floristry Skills

Topic Overview

The SEG Awards ABC Level 1 Certificate in Practical Floristry Skills introduces you to the foundational techniques and creative processes used in professional floristry. You will learn how to handle, prepare, and condition a variety of cut flowers and foliage, understand basic design principles such as colour theory and proportion, and construct simple arrangements like hand-tied bouquets, vase arrangements, and buttonholes. This qualification is ideal if you are starting out in floristry or horticulture, as it builds essential practical skills and knowledge of workplace health and safety.

Floristry is a blend of art and science, requiring both manual dexterity and an understanding of plant biology. By mastering these basics, you will be able to create aesthetically pleasing designs that meet customer needs, while also ensuring the longevity of your arrangements. This certificate forms part of the wider Horticulture & Land Management suite, providing a stepping stone to further study or entry-level roles in floristry shops, garden centres, or event decoration. The practical nature of the course means you will spend significant time working with fresh materials, developing your confidence and creativity.

Key Concepts

Core ideas you must understand for this topic

→Conditioning and preparing flowers: This includes stripping lower leaves, cutting stems at an angle, and using flower food to maximise vase life. Proper conditioning is crucial for professional results.
→Basic design principles: Understand the rule of thirds, focal point placement, and colour harmony (e.g., complementary or analogous colours) to create balanced arrangements.
→Hand-tied bouquet technique: Learn to spiral stems in one direction, add foliage for texture, and bind securely with raffia or tape. This is a core skill for many floristry roles.
→Health and safety: Know how to handle sharp tools (secateurs, knives), avoid slips from wet floors, and identify common allergens or irritants in flowers (e.g., chrysanthemums, lilies).
→Identification of common flowers and foliage: Recognise at least 10-15 species (e.g., roses, carnations, eucalyptus, ferns) and their care requirements, such as whether they are ethylene-sensitive.

Learning Objectives

What you need to know and understand

Be able to assist with maintaining the health of plants., Be able to assist with controlling unwanted plants., Be able to work safely.

Assessment Criteria

Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

Award credit for correctly identifying and demonstrating the appropriate watering technique for a given plant species.
Award credit for safely using hand tools to remove weeds without damaging surrounding plants.
Award credit for selecting and correctly wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for a given task.
Award credit for accurately recording plant health observations and actions taken.

Assessment Guidance

Guidance for achieving higher grades

💡Always read the assessment brief carefully to ensure tasks are completed to the required standard, including evidence of safe working practices.
💡Prepare a photographic or witness account of practical tasks to support your portfolio, clearly showing each step from preparation to completion.
💡Pay close attention to the assessment criteria for each practical task. For example, in a hand-tied bouquet, marks are awarded for stem spiral consistency, secure binding, and clean cuts. Practise these elements repeatedly.
💡Always demonstrate safe working practices during assessments. Examiners look for correct use of tools, tidy workspace, and proper disposal of waste. This can make the difference between a pass and a merit.
💡When asked to evaluate your own work, be honest and specific. Mention what went well (e.g., 'the colour gradient from light to dark works well') and what you would improve (e.g., 'the stems could be more evenly spiralled'). This shows reflective thinking.

Common Mistakes

Common errors to avoid in your coursework

Confusing symptoms of overwatering with underwatering, leading to incorrect watering regimes.
Using herbicides without understanding the label instructions or necessary precautions.
Failing to clean tools after use, risking cross-contamination and disease spread.
Misconception: You can just put any flowers together and they will look good. Correction: Effective floristry relies on design principles like colour theory and proportion. Random combinations often look unbalanced or clash.
Misconception: Cutting stems straight across is fine. Correction: Cutting at a 45-degree angle increases the surface area for water uptake and prevents stems from sitting flat on the vase bottom, which can block absorption.
Misconception: More flowers always make a better arrangement. Correction: Overcrowding can reduce airflow and cause flowers to wilt faster. Good design uses negative space and foliage to create structure and visual interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions students ask about this topic

Before You Start

Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

•No formal prerequisites are required for this Level 1 certificate, but a basic understanding of plant care (e.g., from gardening or school science) will be helpful.
•Familiarity with simple hand tools like scissors or secateurs is beneficial, as you will use them extensively.
•A willingness to work with fresh plant materials and follow hygiene protocols is essential.

Key Terminology

Essential terms to know

Be able to assist with maintaining the health of plants., Be able to assist with controlling unwanted plants., Be able to work safely.

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Assessment criteria

Topic Overview

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Assessment Criteria

Assessment Guidance

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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Assemble basic floral designs