Keep Your Blooms Fresh in the Heat

 
When the temperature rises, fresh flowers can wilt fast. Especially if you’re preparing wedding installations, shop displays, or sympathy arrangements. These expert florist tips will help your stems stay hydrated and looking beautiful, no matter how hot it gets.
 

1. Revive Woody Stems with a Quick Heat Treatment

 
Flowers like hydrangeas and roses often droop in hot weather. To perk them up, place freshly cut stems into a few inches of boiling water for about an hour. Always cut stems at a sharp angle with a clean knife. It opens up more cells and helps draw water efficiently up the stem.
 

2. Strip Away Excess Foliage

 
Too much greenery can rob hydration from the flower head. Remove as many leaves as possible, especially those below the waterline. This simple step ensures moisture goes straight to the petals, helping your flowers last longer in warm conditions.
 

3. Avoid Overcrowding in Buckets

 
Give each stem space to breathe. Overcrowded containers can lead to rot and overheating, especially when it’s warm. Always use clean buckets, and give each stem a clean, angled cut to improve water uptake.
 

4. Choose Heat-Friendly Flowers

 
Some flowers handle heat better than others. Nigella, for example, dries beautifully and works well in loose, summery arrangements. Look for flowers with a naturally ‘dried’ look to avoid heat stress during transport or setup.
 

5. Try the Overnight Soak Trick

 
If your blooms are starting to droop, flip them upside down and submerge the heads in a bucket of clean, tepid water overnight. This trick can breathe new life into wilting stems and is especially useful for last-minute wedding prep.
 

6. Finish with a Floral Sealant Spray

 
For event work (not vase arrangements), try using a finishing spray. It creates a fine mist that seals the petals – ideal for heat-sensitive blooms like hydrangeas. A quick spray can help your designs stay fresh throughout long, hot days.