Summer in Toronto means longer days, sunshine, and patio season, but it can also mean a struggle for fresh flowers and house plants. Whether you've picked up a bouquet, received a stunning vase arrangement, or are tending to your leafy green companions at home, heat and humidity can shorten their lifespan if you’re not careful.
At Oleander, we want your blooms and plants to thrive long after they leave our shop. Here are our top tips for caring for cut flowers and house plants during the warmest months of the year.
Cut Flowers and Bouquets
Trim the stems:
As soon as you get your bouquet home, trim the stems at an angle (about 1–2 cm). This helps the flowers absorb water more easily and prevents the ends from sitting flat against the bottom of the vase.
Use clean, cool water:
Warm or stagnant water speeds up bacteria growth. Fill your (clean) vase with cool, fresh water and change it every two days. Rinse the vase thoroughly each time to remove any residue.
Keep them cool:
Avoid placing your flowers in direct sunlight or near heat sources like radiators, kitchen appliances, or windowsills. Flowers last longest in cool, shaded spots.
Remove wilting blooms:
As some flowers naturally fade, gently remove them. This not only keeps your arrangement looking beautiful but also prevents decay from spreading.
Vase Arrangements: Keeping Them Fresh
Top up water daily:
Heat causes water to evaporate quickly. Check your vase arrangements daily and top up with cool water as needed.
Sumer House Plant Survival Tips
Watch for thirsty plants:
In warmer weather, house plants dry out faster. Check the soil moisture more frequently - most plants like a thorough watering once the top inch of soil feels dry.
Adjust their light:
Sunlight intensifies in summer. If your plants sit near a window, monitor for signs of leaf scorching (crispy edges or yellowing) and consider moving them out of the direct sun.
Increase humidity:
Toronto’s summer heat can still mean dry indoor air, especially with AC running. Grouping plants together or using a small humidifier can help mimic their natural environment.
Keep pests in check:
Heat can encourage bugs like spider mites and aphids. Inspect your plants regularly and wipe down leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap if needed.
Final Tip: Timing is Everything
If you’re picking up flowers from Oleander during a hot spell, try to do so during the cooler parts of the day - morning or late afternoon. If you're gifting flowers or plants, let the recipient know to get them into water or indoors as soon as possible.
Summer is a beautiful time to surround yourself with flowers and greenery, but they do need a little extra care in the heat. Whether you're treating yourself or sending love to someone else, we’re here to help you keep things blooming.
Need a refresh for your space or a summer-perfect gift?
Take a look at our offerings here or stop by our Toronto shop. We're always happy to talk plants and petals!