New on the Blog: Symbolism and Significance of July Flowers

As the summer sun bathes Los Angeles in its golden glow, we at The Hidden Garden are excited to introduce you to the stunning array of flowers that grace our shop this July. Each bloom tells a story of natural beauty, cultural significance, and historical intrigue. Join us on a journey through the vibrant world of July's seasonal flowers and discover how you can bring their elegance into your home or special events. 

Sunflowers: Radiant Rays of Summer

Originating from North America, sunflowers have been cultivated for over 4,500 years. These cheerful blooms were initially grown by Native Americans for their seeds, oils, and dyes. The Aztecs even worshipped these flowers, crowning their priestesses with sunflower garlands. Today, sunflowers symbolize adoration and loyalty, making them perfect for brightening any space with their warm, sunny disposition. 

Lisianthus: Prairie Gentians of the New World

Lisianthus, also known as Texas bluebells or prairie gentians, are native to the warm grasslands of the southern United States and northern Mexico. These delicate flowers were first discovered in the 19th century and quickly gained popularity for their rose-like appearance and long-lasting blooms. In the language of flowers, lisianthus represents appreciation and charisma. Their elegant, layered petals come in various colors, from pure white to deep purple, making them versatile additions to classic and contemporary arrangements.

Snapdragons: Whimsical Blooms with Ancient Roots

Scientifically known as Antirrhinum, Snapdragons have charmed gardeners for centuries with their unique shape and vibrant colors. Originally native to Europe and North Africa, these flowers have a rich history dating back to ancient times. The Romans believed snapdragons had protective powers and often planted them around their homes. In medieval times, they were thought to guard against witchcraft. The flower's name comes from the snap-like motion of the blossoms when gently squeezed, delighting children and adults alike. Symbolizing grace and strength, snapdragons add a playful yet sophisticated touch to any floral composition. 

Dahlias: Mexico's Floral Jewels

Dahlias, native to Mexico and Central America, were once considered more valuable for their edible tubers than their flowers. Named after Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, these stunning blooms have been cultivated since the time of the Aztecs. With their intricate petal arrangements and vast color palette, dahlias add a touch of sophistication to any bouquet or garden. In the Victorian language of flowers, dahlias represent dignity and elegance.

Gladiolus: Sword Lilies of Ancient Rome

The gladiolus, also known as the sword lily due to its long, pointed leaves, originates from Africa and the Mediterranean. Its name comes from the Latin word "gladius," meaning sword. In ancient Rome, gladiators wore gladiolus corms around their necks as amulets for protection and strength. These tall, striking flowers symbolize strength of character, faithfulness, and honor, making them a powerful addition to any floral arrangement.

Lilies: Timeless Symbols of Purity

Lilies have been revered for millennia, tracing their history to ancient Greece and Rome. These elegant flowers are often associated with motherhood, purity, and rebirth. In Chinese culture, lilies are considered good luck and are often given at weddings. Their intoxicating fragrance and striking appearance make them a favorite for indoor and outdoor settings.

Hydrangeas: Chameleons of the Garden

Native to Asia and the Americas, hydrangeas have been cultivated in Japan for centuries. Their ability to change color based on soil pH has earned them the nickname "chameleons of the garden." In Japanese culture, hydrangeas symbolize gratitude, grace, and beauty. These lush, clustered blooms add volume and softness to any arrangement, creating a sense of abundance and luxury.

Lavender: The Herb of Tranquility

While primarily known for its soothing fragrance, lavender also produces delicate purple flowers that are perfect for both fresh and dried arrangements. Originating from the Mediterranean, lavender has been used for centuries in perfumes, medicines, and culinary applications. The ancient Egyptians used lavender in their mummification process, while the Romans added it to their baths for its calming properties.

Bringing July's Blooms to Your Doorstep

As we bask in the beauty of these July flowers, each with its own rich history and cultural significance, we invite you to experience their splendor firsthand. At The Hidden Garden, we carefully select the finest blooms to create stunning arrangements that capture the essence of summer in Los Angeles.

Whether you're looking to add a touch of elegance to your home decor, searching for the perfect centerpiece for a summer soirée, or simply want to brighten someone's day, our July selection offers something for every occasion. From the cheerful radiance of sunflowers to the sophisticated charm of dahlias, each arrangement is crafted with care to bring joy and beauty into your life.

Take advantage of our same-day delivery service and let the magic of July's flowers transform your space today. Visit The Hidden Garden online and order before 1 pm for same day, or explore the in-store seasonal offerings and let our expert florists help you create the perfect floral expression for your needs. Embrace the beauty of summer with a bouquet that tells a story as rich and vibrant as the flowers themselves.

How to Keep Your Flowers Fresh in the Summer:

Tips for Keeping Cut Flowers Fresh in the Los Angeles Heat

While the sun is a warm welcome to other places, (you finally OK, PNW?), the ever-present Los Angeles sun beats down. It’s essential to take extra care when it comes to keeping your fresh-cut flowers vibrant during the summer months. While we understand that as the summer months invite everyone to bask in the outdoors and seek solace near cooling waters, we question…why not bring the refreshing essence of nature inside and keep spreading joy with vibrant summertime bouquets? While the heat can pose a challenge, with the right knowledge and techniques, you can ensure that your floral arrangements continue to bring joy and beauty to your space for longer. 

Understanding the Needs of Cut Flowers

Before delving into the specific tips for preserving cut flowers in hot weather, it’s important to understand the basic needs of these delicate blooms. Cut flowers require water, nutrients, and proper temperatures to thrive. When they are no longer attached to their roots, they rely solely on the water and nutrients provided to them through their stems.

Tips for Preserving Cut Flowers in the Los Angeles Heat

1. Choose the Right Flowers:

Opt for heat-resistant flowers such as spray roses, zinnias, marigolds, lilies, and later, sunflowers. These varieties are better adapted to withstand high temperatures and will last longer in your arrangements (but don’t forget your preferences and align those with what’s currently in bloom! Read HERE on what’s currently in bloom and where their historic symbolism comes from.

2. Prepare the Water:

When filling your vase, use lukewarm water, as this will help the flowers absorb the water more easily. Add flower food to the water to provide essential nutrients and extend the life of your blooms.

3. Trim the Stems:

Cut the stems of your flowers at an angle before placing them in the vase. This allows for better water absorption and helps prevent the stems from sitting flat at the bottom of the container.

4. Change the Water Regularly:

In hot weather, water tends to evaporate more quickly, so be sure to check the water level in your vase daily and top it up as needed. While adding to the water is important, it’s also important to completely change the water every 2-3 days to prevent bacteria from building up and clogging the stems.

5. Avoid Direct Sunlight:

Place your floral arrangement in a spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as air vents or radiators. Direct sunlight can cause the flowers to wilt more quickly and lose their vibrant colors.

6. Mist the Petals:

Spritzing the petals of your flowers with a fine mist of water can help keep them hydrated and fresh. Be sure not to mist the blooms too close, as droplets of water can cause damage to certain flower varieties.

7. Prune Fading Blooms:

As flowers start to wilt and fade, remove them from the arrangement to prevent them from draining nutrients and water from the remaining blooms. This will also keep your display looking fresh and vibrant for longer.

By following these simple yet effective tips, you can prolong the beauty of your cut flowers and enjoy their colorful presence in your home or workspace throughout the summer heat in Los Angeles. With proper care and attention, your floral arrangements will continue to bring a touch of nature’s beauty into your surroundings, brightening your days and lifting your spirits.

Embrace the summer spirit and elevate your indoor space with exquisite summertime bouquets. For a professional touch and stunning floral arrangements, consider ordering from The Hidden Garden, your Los Angeles local luxury florist. Bring the beauty of the season indoors and brighten your surroundings with the artistry of The Hidden Garden's floral creations.

How to Celebrate The Fourth Of July With The Hidden Garden

The Fourth of July weekend is a time for celebration, and what better way to infuse color, beauty, and a touch of nature than by incorporating flowers into your décor? From vibrant centerpieces to striking floral arrangements, here are some ideas and tips to help you celebrate Independence Day with floral splendor.

Decorate with Red, White, and Blue Flowers (of course!)

The patriotic color scheme of red, white, and blue adds flair and symbolism to your Fourth of July decorations. Here are a few ways to incorporate these colors into your floral arrangements:

• Bouquets and Centerpieces: Create stunning bouquets and centerpieces using red roses, white daisies, and blue delphinium. Arrange them in mason jars, vintage pitchers, or patriotic vases for rustic charm.
• Wreaths and Garlands: Adorn your front door, mantel, or staircase with festive wreaths and garlands. Combine red, white, and blue carnations, baby's breath, and mini American flags for a patriotic touch.
• Table Settings: Elevate your outdoor dining experience by decorating each place setting with a small bundle of flowers tied with ribbon. Use single stems or mix and match different flowers, such as zinnias, snapdragons, and agapanthus.
• Outdoor Space: Don't forget to add floral accents to your outdoor space. Hang red, white, and blue flower garlands along railings and fences, or place potted red geraniums, white petunias, and blue lobelia on tables or steps to create a welcoming atmosphere.

Here are a few more flowers that are specifically in bloom, which you could mix and match with your patriotic color scheme!

• Red: Red roses, red gerbera daisies, red carnations, red zinnias, red tulips, red gladiolus.
• White: White daisies, white roses, white hydrangeas, white snapdragons, white baby's breath, white lilies.
• Blue: Blue delphiniums, blue hydrangeas, blue bachelor's buttons, blue cornflowers, blue agapanthus, blue salvia.

Tips for a Lasting Floral Display

To ensure your floral arrangements last throughout the holiday weekend, keep these tips in mind:

• Proper Hydration: Check the water levels daily and replenish if necessary. Flowers can drink a lot, especially during hot summer days.
• Trim and Refresh: Trim the stems of your flowers at an angle before placing them in water. This helps with water absorption. Additionally, change the water in your vases every few days to prevent bacteria growth and ensure your flowers stay fresh.
• Avoid Sun and Heat: Display your flowers away from direct sunlight or other heat sources. This will prevent wilting and prolong their longevity.

Additional Ways to Celebrate with Flowers

While incorporating flowers into your decorations adds a touch of natural beauty, there are other ways you can celebrate the holiday with these vibrant blooms:

• Floral Accessories: For a festive touch, adorn your hair with flower crowns in red, white, or blue hues, or add a lapel pin made with fresh flowers.
• DIY Potpourri: Dry red rose petals, white lavender, and blue cornflower petals to create patriotic potpourri. Display them in decorative dishes or sachets for a fragrant and visually appealing addition to your holiday decor.
• Floral Ice Cubes: Add an elegant touch to your Fourth of July beverages by freezing edible red or blue flower petals in ice cubes. Drop these beautiful ice cubes into bowls, punch bowls, or individual glasses for a stunning and refreshing look.
• Nature-Inspired Crafts: Get creative with flower presses or create DIY pressed flower artworks using red and blue blooms. These can be displayed on your walls or used as table decor during your holiday celebrations.

Don’t have the time? The Hidden Garden has you covered!

If you're short on time or looking for a professional touch, The Hidden Garden is here to help create the perfect floral arrangements for your Fourth of July celebrations. Our team of experienced designers can help you select the perfect flowers for your style and budget and create gorgeous arrangements that capture the spirit of the holiday.

Whether you want to emphasize the red, white, and blue color scheme or try something a little different, we can customize our designs to meet your specific needs. Plus, we offer a range of delivery and setup options so that you can enjoy a stress-free holiday weekend with your friends and family.

At The Hidden Garden, we take pride in crafting unique, elegant, and striking floral arrangements that add a touch of natural beauty to your celebrations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help make your Fourth of July weekend truly memorable.