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Phoam is a departure from traditional foam products and provides a truly circular option for floral mechanics as the world's first compostable floral foam. It's a brand new material, made from PLA, an open cell polymer derived from corn. It's plant-based and free from toxic materials. Phoam has launched in the UK with COM:POST members, so it can be collected after use along with green waste and disposed of in industrial composting sites, to be turned into nutrient-rich compost.

Phoam is reassuringly familiar, but has a character all of its own. Phoam is a versatile material that can be used for many applications, though it works best when contained in a vase with a reservoir of water. Unlike traditional foams, Phoam can be resoaked, and it can also be reused by rinsing out and compacting in a vase, then refilling with water. Given its versatility, we recommend two main ways of working with Phoam, though we're always learning new things as more florists get hands-on with it. One consideration to keep in mind: Phoam can be buoyant as it absorbs water, so securing it properly is important.
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Method One: Wedge & Top-Up

No need to pre-soak, add Phoam to your vase or container dry. Wedge it in and secure with tape. Because Phoam absorbs water at a gentler pace than traditional foam, it will be buoyant at first, so it's important to secure it with tape or twine to keep it submerged while it absorbs water. Fill the vase to the top and always use cold water (warm water may affect the foam's texture). Begin arranging after a minute, then top up once your design is complete.

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‍Method Two: Gently Compress

Alternatively, pre-soak the block by gently compressing it underwater for about 20 seconds, or until the bubbles stop. Tease the block back into shape as it absorbs more water, then transfer it into your container and top up with cold water.

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Florists are an inventive bunch, and given that every flower, every commission and every venue is different, there are many ways Phoam can be worked with, with mechanics designed to incorporate a water source and hold Phoam securely while it soaks.

The exciting part for us is seeing how florists work with Phoam, and admiring the beautiful designs they create.

Learn more about Phoam

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