ARTICLES

Light, Fresh, and Flexible Arrangements With Sideau®

Discover how the structure allows stems to be placed freely, more organic, more alive – exactly what spring calls for.

By: ELISE RAATELAND | 25-03-2026 | 3 min read
Sustainability Floral Education
Sideau by Agra-Wool International

Spring is the season of renewal. Colors return, stems start to dance again, and floral design shifts toward movement and radiance. It’s the perfect moment to rethink not only what to create, but also how to create it.

With Sideau®, developed by Agra-Wool International, florists can embrace the energy of spring while working with a material that aligns with today’s sustainability needs. A new standard in floral materials, Sideau® proves that natural materials and professional performance can go hand in hand.

Spring Flowers Take the Lead

Tulips stretching toward the light, ranunculus unfolding layer by layer, narcissus adding brightness and fragrance – spring flowers bring their own rhythm into any design.

 

Sideau Arrangements German Garden
Working with Sideau® at @ecofoam_russia

 

Sideau® supports that natural movement. Its structure allows stems to be placed freely, without forcing them into rigid positions. 

 

Bouquet with sideau by hwa scene
Spring bouquet created with Sideau® by @hwa scene

 

Freedom to Shape Your Design

One of the strengths of Sideau® lies in its flexibility. Unlike traditional floral foam, it doesn’t dictate the arrangement’s form. Instead, it offers a stable yet responsive base that adapts to your design. This makes it ideal for spring work, where asymmetry, airy compositions, and natural flow take center stage. Think of arrangements where stems appear to grow naturally out of the piece, where space is just as important as the flowers themselves.

 

Sideau with vandambloemen
Cutting Sideau® in a organic shape by @vandambloemen

 

That freedom opens up new creative directions without adding complexity.

Styling Tips for a Fresh Spring Look

 

Design with Sideau by juttanowak
Pastel colored design with Sideau® by @juttanowak

 

From Block to Bloom

The process itself is refreshingly simple. Sideau® only needs a quick one-second dip in water to reach the right saturation. This precise water uptake ensures that flowers receive consistent hydration without excess pressure in the material. The result is easy stem insertion and a smooth working experience.

 

Sideau in water with vandambloemen
Sideau® in water with @vandambloemen

 

No Waste, Just New Growth

Spring is also about cycles, and Sideau® fits seamlessly into that idea.

Made from 100% natural materials, with basalt as its core, the block contains no plastic or oil-based components and leaves no microplastics behind. After use, it can be repurposed as a plant-growing medium. Small pieces become a base for new roots, turning leftover material into new life. Nothing is wasted. Everything contributes.

 

Sideau blocks by mindfullywed
Sideau® blocks by @mindfullywed

 

A Natural Step Forward

Sideau® shows that sustainable floristry doesn’t require compromise. It offers the stability professionals need, the flexibility designers want, and the environmental responsibility the industry is moving toward.

This spring, let your designs feel lighter. More natural. More intentional.

 

Sideau with ecofoam arussia
Sideau® by @ecofoam_russia

 

Header image by @ecofoam_russia.

 

Banner Agra-Wool Sideau Design Sheet Desktop

FAQ

For who is Sideau®?

Sideau® is perfectly suited for florists and flower arrangers who want to use a fully environmentally friendly base for their creations. Sideau® has the same use characteristics as floral foam. In contrast to floral foam, which is made from oil derivatives and phenol resin, which is plastic, Sideau® is fully biodegradable and made of Earthwool®, a natural product made from basalt, a volcanic igneous rock.

How fast does Sideau® absorb water?

A standard Sideau block can absorb approximately 1.5 liters of water in just 1 second. It’s important not to submerge it longer than that, as over-soaking can cause surface softening. Correct hydration ensures optimal stem support and consistent performance.

 

What is the consists of Sideau®?

It consists of 97% basalt, a natural volcanic stone, bonded with a plant-based binder derived from sucrose (natural sugar). This means Sideau® is entirely natural and can be composted after use. The minerals in basalt enrich the soil, promoting healthy plant growth. Additionally, Sideau® is pH-neutral and free from harmful chemicals, making it suitable for use in natural cemeteries and recognized as a sustainable solution in many countries.

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