Potting & Shaping Your Silk Plants

Once your new silk plants or artificial trees have arrived, they will need some shaping done to give it a nice looking presentation.  Remember, the most important thing is that the plants or trees look good to you and for your particular setting or application.  Whichever method accomplishes this objective is the correct one!  The shaping your silk plants and trees is the most important step in getting the best look possible.
 
POTTING

Fill your non-decorative container 3/4 full with floral foam or plaster (found at most home improvement stores). Use plaster for trees with large diameter trunks or if you prefer a heavier base. If using floral foam, simply push the bottom of the tree trunk or silk plant stem deep into the floral foam, making sure it is straight up and down.  If using plaster, mix according to instructions from manufacturer, then pour into non-decorative container, and let “set up” until you can insert your silk plant stem or tree trunk, and the semi-hardened plaster will hold the plant or tree upright until completely hardened.  Tap the side of the container to ensure plaster is thoroughly up against the trunk/stem.  Once the silk tree is potted, insert your non-decorative container into your decorative planter, basket, etc.

Your silk plants or silk tree may require some simple assembly.  Most come with fronds, and a trunk with frond openings.  As a general rule, smaller fronds go towards the bottom, and larger (longer) fronds will go towards the top areca palms,bamboo palm,kentai palms, etc.)  Some silk plants and trees, such as Phoenix Palms, may have a single frond “head” which simply plugs into the top of the tree trunk.  It’s a great idea to refer to original product picture when assembling your artificial tree for reference. 

SHAPING

When receiving your silk tree or plant there may be some leaves that are misshaped due to the journey it has taken. Steam works well to get the wrinkles out of the leaves, you can set it in your bathroom with the shower on hot and then work the wrinkles out of the leaves or a portable steamer for clothes works well (make sure you do not hold the steamer to close to the leaf). For the branches to look natural we recommend the directional shaping method, which will maximize fullness and create a better silhouette for your silk plants. Starting near the trunk or main stem, work your way to the end of the frond or leaf, gently bending as you go, creating a slight downward curve on the lowest branches of the plant to a slight upward angle toward the top branches.  By slightly staggering the tips around the branch of your tree it will give it a fuller look.  Again, referring to the original item picture will help greatly in this process.