Sending flowers is an easy way to cheer up a loved one, to commemorate a friend's housewarming, or to congratulate a colleague on a meaningful event. Flowers come in all shapes and colors, and there is no limit to arrangement possibilities. So what is the difference - a bouquet or a basket?

The main distinction between the two lies in the way the flowers are assembled. In the case of a bouquet, the flower stems are usually tied or otherwise fixed together at one joining spot, which allows them to be put into a vase or another vessel with water to nourish them, but usually only for a few days. In a way, this formation limits the possibilities of the arrangement. Flower baskets, alternatively, contain either live flowers with soil to feed on, or an arrangement of cut blossoms that is set by fixing the stems into floral sponge or "oasis" - a special kind of fine sponge which retains water and nutrients. The oasis allows for significantly more inventive arrangements and decorations of the flowers, creating an environment for inspirational designs without the limitations of the bouquet but retaining the same beauty and freshness of blossoms. Live flowers and flowers arranged in floral sponges also tend to last longer than cut flowers in vases. Also, flower baskets are more stable in transportation, since the basket provides a safe structure while they're being shipped. Finally, since they usually have a handle they are hassle-free when they arrive - the recipient can simply set them out at once without having to find an appropriate vase.