How Florists Keep Flowers Fresh in Hot Weather

Summer weddings, outdoor events, and sunny days can be magical, but for florists, the hot weather presents a unique set of challenges. Whether it’s scorching temperatures or sweltering humidity, florists are experts at keeping flowers fresh and beautiful despite the heat. As a Portland wedding florist, we know how important it is to keep flowers looking stunning, even when the temperature rises. In this blog post, we’ll share the secrets florists use to beat the heat and keep your flowers vibrant and fresh during hot weather.

Venue: Mt Hood Organic Farms Photographer: NW Film Co

1. Choosing Heat-Tolerant Flowers

The first line of defense against the heat is selecting flowers that can handle high temperatures. Some blooms are naturally more resilient in the heat than others. Florists often opt for flowers that are hardy and can withstand the heat and sunshine. Below are some of our favorite choices.

  • Ball Dahlias: not all dahlias are created equal when it comes to heat tolerance. Ball dahlias specifically are the only ones that will hold up well in the hot summer days
  • Didiscus: a filler flower that adds whimsy to any arrangement holds up incredibly well in the heat
  • Delphinium: does well out of water entirely!
  • Ranunculus: I have had left over stems in my car in the hot summer heat for hours and they have not wilted. Tried and true summer stand by. Too bad it’s a spring flower! (often will be imported in the summer)

By selecting the right flowers, florists can ensure your arrangements stay beautiful, even on the hottest days.

2. Keeping Flowers Hydrated

Hydration is the key to keeping flowers looking fresh, especially when it’s hot outside. Florists use several methods to ensure flowers are well-hydrated, even when they’re being transported or displayed outdoors:

  • Hydration Solutions: Florists often use special hydration solutions that help flowers absorb water and stay vibrant. These solutions are typically mixed with water to create an optimal environment for the flowers.
  • Water Picks: For flowers in arrangements that need extra hydration (like installations) florists use water picks. These small, clear tubes are filled with water and placed into the stems to keep them hydrated.
  • Misting: Florists may use misting systems or a gentle spray bottle to lightly mist flowers before transporting them, adding a burst of moisture without soaking them.

3. Timing the Floral Deliveries

To combat heat during a wedding or event, florists strategically plan the delivery time of the flowers. The goal is to have the flowers arrive as close to the event as possible to minimize exposure to the sun.

  • Optimum Delivery: For outdoor weddings, florists typically try to deliver flowers at just the right time prior to the ceremony. They can’t place them outside in the sun too early or they will wilt before the ceremony begins so they have to time it juuuuuuuuust right. Making sure they have enough time to set everything up and clean up while not leaving too much time for the flowers to become wilted.
  • Shaded Storage: While flowers are waiting to be arranged or placed, florists make sure to store them in shaded or air-conditioned areas. This prevents the flowers from becoming too hot and wilting prematurely.
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4. Proper Handling During Transport

When transporting flowers in hot weather, florists take extra care to ensure the flowers stay as cool as possible:

  • Cooler Transport: Privileged florists use coolers or refrigerated vans to transport flowers. This ensures the flowers are kept at a stable, cool temperature and reduces the stress of high heat.If that is not an option as is the case for many many florists. We instead blast that AC and keep the van as cool as possible during transport

5. Avoiding Direct Sunlight

Once the flowers arrive at their destination, florists make sure that they are not exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. This is especially important for delicate blooms that wilt quickly in the heat.

  • Shaded Display: For weddings or events held outdoors, florists will often place floral arrangements in shaded areas, under tents, or near structures that protect them from direct sunlight.
  • Using Floral Shades: Sometimes, florists will use temporary floral shades to shield arrangements from the harsh midday sun without blocking airflow.

While hot weather can be challenging for keeping flowers fresh, florists have plenty of tricks up their sleeves to ensure that your blooms stay beautiful and vibrant throughout your event. From selecting heat-resistant flowers to strategic timing, hydration techniques, and proper transport, Portland florists know how to beat the heat and keep your flowers looking stunning, no matter the temperature.

Are you planning an outdoor wedding or event during the summer? Contact us today to discuss how we can help you choose the best flowers and keep them fresh, even when the heat is on!

Ready to keep your wedding flowers fresh and vibrant? Contact us for expert floral design and tips on how to keep your flowers looking perfect, no matter the weather!