Blooming Beauties Summer Survival Guide for Florists

Author : Aliano Harris | Published On : 16 Apr 2024

As the warmth of summer envelopes us, florists find themselves in the midst of bustling activity, crafting beautiful arrangements to match the season's vibrant energy. However, as temperatures rise, so do the challenges in preserving the freshness and beauty of delicate blooms.

Fear not, fellow florists, for we have curated a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the summer months with grace and ensure your floral creations continue to captivate your customers. Let's delve into the enchanting world of garden roses, peonies, hydrangeas, and carnations, exploring their unique characteristics and offering expert tips on maintenance during the summer heat.

Garden Roses: Timeless Elegance

Garden roses epitomize romance and sophistication, boasting lush petals and enchanting fragrance. These timeless blooms are a staple in floral arrangements, adding a touch of luxury to any bouquet. To keep garden roses fresh during the summer, follow these simple steps:

1. Hydration is Key: Ensure your garden roses receive an ample water supply to combat dehydration in the scorching heat. Submerge the stems in clean water immediately upon receiving them and regularly change the water to prevent bacterial growth.

2. Cool Environment: Store your roses in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight and drafts. Consider refrigeration if available, as colder temperatures can prolong their vase life.

3. Trim and Refresh: Trim the stems at an angle before arranging them in a vase filled with fresh water. Remove any foliage that may sit below the waterline to prevent bacterial contamination. Refresh the water every couple of days to maintain optimal hydration.

4. Petal Care: Garden roses are delicate blooms, and their petals can be prone to bruising. Handle them with care during processing and arranging to avoid damage. Additionally, gently spritzing the petals with water can help maintain their freshness and prevent wilting.

Peonies: Whispers of Romance

Renowned for their ethereal beauty and soft, billowing petals, peonies exude an air of romance and charm. These exquisite blooms are cherished by florists for their versatility and delicate allure. To preserve peonies' splendor throughout the summer, adhere to these guidelines:

1. Early Harvest: Source peonies that are harvested at the bud stage or just beginning to open. This ensures longevity and allows the blooms to unfurl gradually, extending their vase life.

2. Cool Storage: Store peonies in a cool environment away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Consider placing them in the refrigerator overnight to prolong their freshness, especially during peak summer temperatures.

3. Minimal Handling: Handle peonies with care to avoid bruising or damaging the delicate petals. Use clean, sharp floral shears to trim the stems at an angle and remove any foliage below the waterline to prevent bacterial growth.

4. Watering Technique: When watering peonies, aim to keep the blooms hydrated while avoiding excess moisture on the petals, as this can lead to botrytis or fungal issues. Water the soil around the base of the plant rather than directly onto the flowers to prevent waterlogged conditions.

Hydrangeas: Abundant Elegance

Hydrangeas captivate with their lavish clusters of blossoms and vibrant hues, making them a popular choice for summer arrangements. These bountiful blooms exude an air of understated elegance and lend a touch of whimsy to any bouquet. To maintain hydrangeas' allure in the summer heat, implement these strategies:

1. Water Retention: Hydrangeas are thirsty blooms that require ample hydration to thrive. Submerge the stems in lukewarm water for approximately 30 minutes to ensure thorough hydration before arranging them in a vase filled with fresh water.

2. Misting Ritual: Mist hydrangea blooms with water to mimic their natural habitat and prevent wilting. Pay special attention to the petals, ensuring they remain plump and hydrated throughout the day.

3. Rehydrate Regularly: Check the water level in the vase daily and replenish as needed to keep the hydrangeas hydrated. Remove any wilted blossoms promptly to maintain the overall freshness of the arrangement.

4. pH Balance: Hydrangeas are sensitive to soil pH, which can affect the color of their blooms. To maintain or alter the color of hydrangea blossoms, consider adjusting the soil pH by adding amendments such as aluminum sulfate for blue blooms or lime for pink blooms.

Carnations: Versatile Delights

Carnations are beloved for their durability, affordability, and diverse color palette, making them a staple in floral design. These resilient blooms are perfect for adding texture and depth to arrangements, offering endless creative possibilities. To ensure carnations withstand the summer heat with grace, consider the following tips:

1. Proper Conditioning: Condition carnations upon arrival by trimming the stems at an angle and removing any foliage that may sit below the waterline. Place them in a clean vase filled with fresh water and floral preservative to enhance longevity.

2. Cool Environment: Keep carnations in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid placing them near ripening fruits or appliances that emit heat, as this can accelerate wilting.

3. Hydration Maintenance: Monitor the water level in the vase and replenish as needed to keep the carnations hydrated. Trim the stems every few days to promote water uptake and prolong their vase life.

4. Ethylene Sensitivity: Carnations are sensitive to ethylene gas, which is emitted by certain fruits, vegetables, and other flowers as they ripen. To prevent premature wilting, store carnations away from ethylene-producing items and consider using ethylene inhibitors in your storage area.

In conclusion, navigating the summer season as a florist comes with its unique set of challenges, but with the right knowledge and care, you can ensure your floral creations continue to enchant and delight customers.

By implementing proper hydration, storage, and maintenance techniques, you can preserve the beauty of garden roses, peonies, hydrangeas, and carnations throughout the summer months, allowing their natural splendor to shine bright in every arrangement.

Embrace the beauty of these blooms and let your creativity flourish as you craft stunning creations that capture the essence of summer's allure. With these expert tips at your fingertips, you're ready to conquer the summer season and create unforgettable floral masterpieces that leave a lasting impression.