Page:Japanese flower arrangement.djvu/135

 point forward and others backward. Do this also with the Earth sprays.

Let the Midzu-giwa—the place at the base where all the stems must unite and appear as one stalk—be short, about three inches or so in length. The shortening of this part of the arrangement makes it look full and spreading, as all plant life is at that season. The amount of water put into the vase is regulated according to the season. In spring, when the streams are full to overflowing, vases are filled to the brim. The Japanese put wax on the edges of the vase, so that the water can go over the rim at this season and look as if it were overflowing, yet not actually spill.

In summer use young green leaves in great abundance. Cut leaves off near the water in order to give a cool effect. Make the Midzu-giwa shorter than at any other season, about two inches in length and make your arrangement very full and [129]