Natural Branches:
Consistently Inconsistent!
When purchasing natural branches such as Manzanita, Curly
Willow and Birch, keep in mind that they are unlike other decorative
branches used for floral design. Each one is an individual shape and
sculpture, and may take on a variety of shapes and variations. Most
professional centerpieces are created using several branches to achieve a
full look, so always consider purchasing additional pieces or fillers.
This needs to be a first consideration when purchasing your branches.
It's best to order your branches all at once.
If you place an order today, and another order in a week, you will
always see a difference in the product. This is because the
harvest areas change every 2-4 days, resulting in changes in the
harvested product. No two harvests are ever the same.
Returns on harvested products (branches): Nearly all floral suppliers will not offer returns on harvested material. We do offer a limited return window. Please see our
return policy for more information.
Adapting Manzanita for Non-Centerpiece Use: Our branches are
harvested specifically for centerpiece use, and our suppliers are
instructed to harvest the most symmetrical pieces available. They are
generally not suitable for hanging on a wall, or placing flat against a
vertical surface. Symmetrical pieces must be CUT OR TRIMMED for other
specific uses. We DO NOT GUARANTEE that any cutting or trimming
techniques will adapt your branches for the intended use.
The following characteristics of manzanita branches are naturally occurring, and are a part of working with the material.
Characteristics of Sandblasted Manzanita:
- Shape: shapes vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year.
- Branches: Sandblasting removes 20% to 30% of
the smaller branches, and the branches are sparse as a result. Remnants
of the bark are sometimes visible, although the finished color is mostly
ivory.
- Size: sizes are approximate and vary with each piece, harvest area, and time of year.
- Bark: the natural red bark is removed in the
sandblasting process, leaving the ivory wood exposed. The ivory color
may appear in different shades depending on the piece, harvest area, and
time of year. Freshly sandblasted branches may have a bright honeydew
shade, which is a remnant of the red bark, and dissipates to ivory
usually within days. Brown or reddish grains and ribbons may or may not
appear in each individual piece, depending on the particular
characteristics of each piece.
Make sure to store in a cool, dry place to avoid
discoloration or mold which may occur in humid or damp conditions.
- Age:
Manzanita branches last indefinitely. Cracks and splits will occur as
the wood naturally cures, however this will not cause them to break in
half, fall apart, etc.
- Leaves: leaves are mechanically or manually removed, depending on the current season, harvest or time of year.
