The minimum requirement for floral designers is usually a high school diploma. Floral designers traditionally come into the field by applying for work at a local floral shop. After gaining years of practical experience, some branch out and form their own companies.

Florists must be skilled in the three basic types of floristry: Ikebana, English Garden and High Style. Each has it's own distinct look and type of flora, and floral artists should be knowledgable of each. Moreover, they must understand which types of flowers or decorative styles are appropriate for which event, whether it be a funeral or wedding. Furthermore, they must keep current on the latest fashions and trends in floral design in order to meet the needs of their customers.

Of particular importance is the knowledge of the individual attributes of each type of plant species, and when each is in season. This is important so that the floral designer is able to keep the correct plants in stock, maintain them appropriately and know how they will interact with other species. Florists should also know about how long each flower will last, so that they can create arrangements that will last as long as the events in which they are used.