As summer cranks up the heat, we all find ways to keep cool. But what about the colorful flowers that brighten up our homes and events? They also need a little extra care in the summer months.

If you're unsure how to keep your flowers looking fresh and vibrant in the summer heat, you're in the right place. We've got some expert advice from the team at Barbara's Flower Shop in Brooklyn, NY to help you out.

 

Watering Wisdom: Strike the Perfect Balance

When it comes to watering your flowers in the summer, the golden rule is to strike a balance. Both over-watering and under-watering can be detrimental to your floral friends.

Generally, flowers need more water in summer than in cooler months due to increased evaporation. But how much water exactly should you give them? Well, this can depend largely on the type of flower and its specific requirements. Succulents, for instance, will need far less water than a rose or lily.

A good rule of thumb is to check the soil. If it's dry to the touch an inch or so down, it's usually a good time to water. Watering in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler can help prevent water loss through evaporation.

When watering, aim to do so thoroughly but infrequently. This encourages the plants to grow deep roots, making them more resilient and better equipped to find water sources. Just ensure that your flower containers have good drainage to prevent water from stagnating and causing root rot.

And what about cut flowers in vases? They need attention too. Make sure to change the water every two days or so, and give the stems a fresh cut on an angle to facilitate better water uptake.

 

Location, Location, Location: Sunlight and Your Blooms

Most indoor plants prefer bright, indirect light in a well-lit room, but out of the harsh rays of the sun. Direct midday sunlight, in particular, can scorch their leaves and cause their flowers to wilt prematurely. Consider positioning your flowers near an east or west-facing window. These spots usually get a good amount of light without the intensity of midday sun. If you notice the leaves starting to yellow or the flowers wilting despite adequate watering, they might be getting too much light and it may be a good idea to move them a little further away from the window.

For cut flowers, the rules change slightly. Cut flowers aren't engaging in photosynthesis, so they don't need sunlight to survive. In fact, placing cut flowers in direct sunlight can cause them to wilt quicker due to the heat. A spot with indirect light is best for extending the life of your cut flowers.

 

Climate Control: Comfort in the Cool

Flowers and humans have something in common during the hot summer months - both enjoy a bit of a cool down! Just as we humans find relief in the cool breeze of an air conditioner, flowers, too, can benefit from a cooler environment.

While it's easy to assume that flowers are impervious to temperature changes due to their outdoor origins, they actually can be quite sensitive. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause dehydration and wilting, making your blooms look less than their best.

So, how can you maintain the right temperature? Ideally, try to keep your home at a comfortable 70-72°F (21-22°C). This range is often considered the 'sweet spot' for a variety of indoor plants and flowers, allowing them to thrive without the risk of heat stress.

Bear in mind, not all flowers have the same temperature preferences. Some might need cooler or warmer conditions.

 

Humidity Help: The Balance of Moisture in the Air

Many houseplants and flowers originate from tropical or subtropical regions, where humidity levels are naturally high. When the air in our homes is too dry, these plants can struggle.

Signs of low humidity in plants can include brown leaf tips, wilting, or even slowed growth. So, how can you maintain an adequate humidity level for your floral friends?

One of the easiest ways to increase humidity is by misting your flowers. Use a spray bottle to lightly mist your flowers, mimicking the humid environment of a tropical rainforest. Make sure you only mist in the morning, though, to give your plants time to dry out during the day and prevent fungal diseases.

Another method to increase humidity is by using a humidifier. These machines emit water vapor to increase the moisture level in the air. This can be especially helpful if you have a large collection of flowers in one room.

Lastly, you can also create a humidity tray. Fill a shallow tray or dish with pebbles, and add water until it's about halfway up the pebbles. Then, place your plant pot on top of the pebbles, ensuring the bottom of the pot isn't submerged in water. As the water in the tray evaporates, it will increase the humidity around the plant.

 

Nutrient Nourishment: Feeding Your Floral Friends

Cut flowers need food, too! Most florists provide small packets of flower food along with their bouquets. This food is a mix of sugar (for energy), an acidifier (to maintain the water's pH), and a biocide (to kill bacteria). If you run out, you can make a simple homemade version with 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1/2 tablespoon of bleach per quart of water.

The summer heat doesn't have to wilt your floral fun. With these expert tips, you can keep your bouquets fresh, vibrant, and as captivating as the day you brought them home.

At Barbara's Flower Shop, we have a variety of summer flowers that can resist the heat and continue to bring joy to your homes and events. We also have a wide selection of flowers and plants for birthdays, anniversaries, new babies, or even just to make someone smile .

Still have questions about summer flower care? Our friendly team would love to help you. Give us a call at (718) 773-6644 or our shop located at 1096 Bergen St, Brooklyn, NY 11216.