This guide highlights flowers that are sensitive to high temperatures and thrive in cooler conditions. These blooms are ideal for spring, fall, or indoor arrangements in air-conditioned spaces. Understanding their needs helps florists and customers maintain their beauty and longevity.
1. Tulips
- Description: Tulips are elegant, cup-shaped flowers available in vibrant colors like red, yellow, pink, and white. They bloom in spring and are a favorite for bouquets and centerpieces.
- Heat Sensitivity: Tulips wilt quickly in temperatures above 70°F (21°C). Their petals become soft and droopy in heat.
- Care Tips:
- Store in a cool place (35–45°F or 2–7°C) before arranging.
- Keep in fresh, cool water with flower food.
- Avoid direct sunlight or warm drafts.
- Best Use: Spring weddings, indoor arrangements, or shaded outdoor displays.
2. Hydrangeas
- Description: Hydrangeas feature large, lush clusters of blooms in shades of blue, pink, white, or green. They add volume to arrangements.
- Heat Sensitivity: Hydrangeas dehydrate rapidly in heat above 75°F (24°C), causing wilting petals and browning edges.
- Care Tips:
- Submerge flower heads in cool water for 10–15 minutes to rehydrate.
- Mist petals lightly to maintain moisture.
- Place in a refrigerated display if possible.
- Best Use: Indoor events, shaded garden settings, or cooler climates.
3. Lilacs
- Description: Lilacs are fragrant, cone-shaped clusters of tiny flowers in purple, white, or pink. They evoke a romantic, vintage charm.
- Heat Sensitivity: Lilacs fade and wilt in temperatures above 70°F (21°C), losing their fragrance and vibrancy.
- Care Tips:
- Cut stems at an angle and split woody ends for better water uptake.
- Keep in a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Change water daily to prevent bacterial growth.
- Best Use: Spring bouquets, indoor decor, or evening events.
4. Peonies
- Description: Peonies are lush, full blooms with soft petals in pink, white, coral, or red. They’re a staple for romantic arrangements.
- Heat Sensitivity: Peonies droop and shed petals in heat above 75°F (24°C), especially when fully open.
- Care Tips:
- Store in a cooler at 34–38°F (1–3°C) until use.
- Use a supportive vase to prevent stem bending.
- Keep away from heat sources like radiators or sunny windows.
- Best Use: Wedding bouquets, indoor centerpieces, or cool-season events.
5. Sweet Peas
- Description: Sweet peas are delicate, ruffled flowers with a sweet fragrance, available in pastel shades like lavender, pink, and white.
- Heat Sensitivity: Sweet peas wilt and lose color in temperatures above 65°F (18°C), making them unsuitable for hot climates.
- Care Tips:
- Harvest early in the morning when temperatures are cooler.
- Keep in shallow, cool water to avoid stem rot.
- Display in shaded or air-conditioned spaces.
- Best Use: Garden-inspired arrangements, boutonnieres, or spring displays.
General Care Tips for Non-Heat-Resistant Flowers
- Storage: Store flowers in a floral cooler at 34–40°F (1–4°C) with high humidity (80–90%).
- Hydration: Use clean vases and change water every 1–2 days. Add floral preservative to extend life.
- Placement: Avoid placing arrangements near heat sources, direct sunlight, or fruit bowls (which release ethylene gas, accelerating wilting).
- Transport: Use insulated coolers with ice packs for delivery in warm weather.
When to Use These Flowers
These flowers are best suited for:
- Cool Seasons: Spring or fall when temperatures are moderate.
- Indoor Events: Weddings, parties, or corporate events in air-conditioned venues.
- Shaded Outdoor Settings: Gardens or patios with ample shade and cool breezes.
By selecting these flowers for appropriate settings and following proper care protocols, florists can ensure stunning, long-lasting arrangements that delight customers.