Florist Guide: Flowers That Are Not Heat Resistant

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.