How to Arrange Grocery Store Orchids Like a Pro (and Keep Them Alive)

Yes, you could drop those impulse-purchased orchids into any old pot, or you can give them a pro-level makeover in minutes with our step-by-step tips. To pull off this look, you'll need phalaenopsis orchids (the kind you find in the grocery store), a planter, moss, decorative stems and one or two small, low-light houseplants. This arrangement makes a gorgeous dining table centerpiece or a stunning gift for Mother's Day, birthdays or any other flower-worthy occasion.

For an arrangement that lasts, select orchids with plenty of closed buds left on the stem. Young branches with two or more buds will stay pretty for 2 to 4 months, but if all the buds have bloomed out, the plant will soon start to wilt or shed. Grocery stores will push these bloomed-out plants to the front of the pack because they're big and pretty, but don't be fooled! Sort through and inspect each one before you put them in your cart.

It's also important to take a look at the plant's leaves. Green, firm, glossy leaves indicate a happy, healthy orchid (even when all the blooms have shed). If the leaves are soft, droopy or turning yellow or brown, move on.

A large, low breathable vessel like this pretty terracotta pot is perfect for our arrangement, but you can use any container for this project. Get creative! Upcycled items like tin cans, decorative bowls or baskets are fun, pretty options — plus, they're free.