Forage Foam Facts
Do You Know Foam?
In a digital world where misinformation is so prevalent, it's crucial to get your facts straight from the source. At Smithers-Oasis North America, we're here to provide you with accurate insights into the sustainability, affordability, and usability of OASIS® Forage Foam products.
We believe in empowering florists of all skill levels with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. After all, when it comes to creating stunning floral arrangements, having the right tools and understanding their impact is key.
How long does it take to soak foam?
OASIS® Forage Foam only takes about 30 seconds - 1 minute to fully saturate. Just make sure you let it free soak (don't forcibly submerge the brick in the water), that way you can avoid air pockets in the foam.
Does the Forage foam have Flower Fuel in it?
No! Make sure you add Flower Fuel into the water that you soak your foam in.
Is this the same foam that I see in craft stores?
No way! We invented Floral foam in 1954, and have been perfecting the science behind it since then. OASIS® Forage Foam is made with our carefully curated Maxlife*, and is not sold in craft stores.
How often do I need to add water to my arrangement with Forage Foam?
Great news, OASIS® Forage Foam changes in color as it dries out. As the foam returns to the original lighter brown, add water to your container. Every flower has different needs, so make sure you check on it every few days!
*This product degrades by 75% within 1 year in anaerobic environment (ASTM D5511).
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam is carcinogenic.
FACT
OASIS® Forage Foam is safe and not considered a health or physical hazard based on GHS classification.
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam impacts the air in your home.
FACT
Storage or use of OASIS® Forage Foam does not require additional ventilation in your space.
MYTH
You need to wear gloves when using OASIS® Forage Foam.
FACT
OASIS® Forage Foam is not considered a skin irritant, therefore no gloves are needed. Of course, if wearing gloves is your thing, then go for it.
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam is toxic.
FACT
OASIS® Forage Foam is safe and not considered a health or physical hazard based on GHS classification.
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam is dangerous.
FACT
Forage foam is an article, which is generally defined as a manufactured item that does not release or result in exposure to a hazardous chemical under normal conditions of use.
MYTH
Smithers-Oasis lies about degradable foam.
FACT
Smithers-Oasis bases its information on scientific studies and official classifications.
MYTH
Floral Foam doesn't
degrade.
FACT
Many don’t but OASIS® Forage Foam made with Maxlife does!
MYTH
Floral Foam isn’t sustainable.
FACT
Actually, OASIS® Forage Foam made with Maxlife* is a more sustainable option over other classic floral foams.
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam is bad for the environment.
FACT
Calling all earth-lovers! OASIS® Forage Foam made with Maxlife* is a great option for those seeking a better-for-the-environment foam.
MYTH
Floral Foam has been banned.
FACT
Absolutely not! Professional Designers continue to trust in floral foam to help them make floral design dreams come true!
*This product degrades by 75% within 1 year in anaerobic environment (ASTM D5511).
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam needs to float imprint up.
FACT
Imprint up, or imprint down, OASIS® Forage Foam will saturate either way.
MYTH
You must “foam in” the entire container.
FACT
No way! Not every inch of your container needs to be filled with foam. Use varying stem lengths to avoid cutting that extra piece. Make sure water reaches your stems though!
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam is too hard to design with.
FACT
Using foam is easy when you know the basics. You can boost your foam skills by visiting our social media for tips and tricks on how to design with your foraged florals!
MYTH
Designing in OASIS® Forage Foam takes too long.
FACT
With Forage Foam your arrangement will last longer on average than if you arrange your florals in a vase. Plus you don't need to trim the stem ends after a few days, just add water when the foam lightens in color.
MYTH
Forage Foam is bad if it discolors.
FACT
When foam is exposed to UV light the color could change. No worries through, the foam is still effective.
MYTH
Floral Foam is all
the same.
FACT
Not all floral foam is created equal. Foam is more science than art, which we have been perfecting since 1954. Our high-quality foam passes rigorous testing before making it to your arrangement.
MYTH
Some flowers can’t be used in OASIS® Forage Foam.
FACT
OASIS® Forage Foam is formulated to maximize flower life for all flowers. So go ahead, flower until your heart's content. Remember to utilize the OASIS® Strong Foam if you plan on designing with woody stems!
MYTH
OASIS® Forage Foam doesn’t hold much water.
FACT
Each brick of OASIS® Forage Foam can hold about two quarts of water.
MYTH
Floral Foam texture is inconsistent.
FACT
Our middle name should have been reliable, because that’s what you get with OASIS® Forage Foam. Our foam undergoes over 10 different quality checks before heading out the door.
