High Temperatures Flower Care Tips

During hot weather, it can be difficult for flower shops to keep cut flowers fresh and beautiful. High temperatures can cause flowers to deteriorate faster, so it’s important to follow special care practices. Here are some key tips for keeping your cut flowers in top condition during heat waves.

Optimal Storage Conditions

Proper storage is crucial for protecting cut flowers from high temperatures. Keeping them in the right environment will extend their freshness:

• Store cut flowers in a refrigerated space set between 34°F and 38°F (1°C to 3°C). This slows down the respiration and water loss.
• Keep flowers away from direct sunlight, drafts, and heat sources like air vents or appliances. These can cause flowers to wilt quickly.
• Aim for around 90% humidity in the storage area to keep the flowers hydrated and prevent them from drying out.

Proper Hydration

Hydration is essential for cut flowers, especially in hot weather. Ensuring they have enough water can keep them looking fresh longer:

• When new flowers arrive, cut their stems at a diagonal under water to avoid air pockets and place them in clean, cool water with flower food.
• Replace the water every day and ensure it’s clean to prevent bacteria growth, which can shorten the lifespan of flowers.
• Add commercial flower food to the water. It provides nutrients and reduces bacteria, helping to extend the life of the flowers.

Conditioning Flowers

Conditioning prepares flowers for display and maximizes their lifespan:

• Strip any leaves that will be below the water line to prevent decay and fouling of the water.
• Every couple of days, re-cut the stems at an angle to improve water uptake.
• Let the flowers rest in a cool, dark place for a few hours to fully hydrate and regain firmness before display.

Display Techniques

How you display your flowers can significantly affect their longevity and appearance, especially in hot weather:

• Always use clean, sanitized vases or containers to minimize bacterial growth.
• Place flower displays away from direct sunlight, doors, and windows.
• If possible, use fans or air conditioning to keep the display area cool.
• Lightly mist the flowers with water to maintain hydration. This is especially helpful for flowers that prefer high humidity, like Roses and Hydrangeas.

Handling Delicate Flowers

Some flowers are more sensitive to heat and need extra care:

• For heat-sensitive flowers like orchids and lilies, consider using floral coolants or cool water misting systems.
• Reduce the time these flowers spend out of the cooler. Prepare and display them just before they are needed.
• Use delicate flowers in arrangements that are likely to sell quickly or be delivered immediately to minimize their time in a hot environment.

Managing cut flowers in high temperatures requires careful and proactive measures. By controlling storage conditions, ensuring proper hydration, conditioning flowers correctly, optimizing display techniques, handling delicate flowers with care, and educating customers, flower shops can keep their blooms fresh and beautiful, even on the hottest days.

At Holex Flower, we offer high-quality blooms and expert advice to help you keep them fresh, no matter the weather. Visit our product guides for more tips and explore our wide range of cut flowers .