Video tutorial on how to make a big vintage rose out of Salal leaves

One of the most important cut greens used in the industry is Salal aka lemon leaf. It is used for all occasion designs from birthdays to anniversaries weddings funerals etc. This video tutorial featuring floral designer JR Nocon gives a quick guide on how to make a big vintage rose out of Salal leaves. 

HOW JR NOCON CREATES THE ROSE
The designer starts off by cutting the leaves from the stems; putting in mind the size of each leaf to ensure uniformity. He then separates them according to size. He then rolls the leaf tightly, then pierces through a medium gauge florist wire at the bottom to stop the leaf from unfolding. JR the folds the wire so it can serve as a handle

He then includes another leaf and another to create a sturdy and firm center and base for the creation. He adds more leaves and uses the florist wire to hold them in place for and even thicker handle.

In his arrangement the top of the leaf is facing in and up. Using glue spray, he sprays the cut area of the leaf and makes sure the smaller leaves are placed first in the layering process, followed by the medium sized leaves then consequently the large ones for consistency.

He begins the layering process by holding the bottom as he adds more leaves to it… while at the same time allowing the leaf to ‘open’ gradually on the top.

The larger leaves are put in last. You will know it is done when the leaves are completely horizonatal to the wire handle. The bigger the leaves.. the larger the rose can be.

The designer then wraps the bottom with another florist wire for additional security and covers the bottom with florist tape for a better look. 

Check out the end result

About the designer
JR Nocon is a multi-awarded world class floral artist based in San Diego CA. He is AMERICAS CUP Competition Grand Champion and Medal Winner at the INTERFLORA WORLD CUP Design Competition. He is an international industry judge & educator. His other achievements include: 

• Interflora Stockholm World Cup medalist
• Interflora Tokyo Wordl Cup FTDA Natinal selection finalist
• 2 time FTDA America’s Cup regional winner
• Carlifornia state best designer
• Southern carlifornia top ten winner
• FTDA Lifetime tribute – the JR NOcon cup – designer of the year awards
• Bayaning Filipinio in America medal recipient
• ABS CBN television international network Filipino channel
• Accredited and certified by the American institute of Floral designers since 1984