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.