Arrangements such as this one created by Vancouver florist McKenzie Miller can make for eye-catching pieces for garden gatherings, but it’s important to make sure what you get can last through the heat.
‘Tis the season for getting outside, whether for recreation, entertainment or solemn ceremonies.
Although the heat wave earlier this month made outside activities uncomfortable if not dangerous, on cooler days hosting get-togethers outside can let homeowners take full advantage of their open space. Those looking to add some elegance or color to their soirees can use flower arrangements to bring a natural flair, but not just any flower will do in the heat.
Weddings and garden parties were the main outdoor events seeking arrangements, Vancouver-based florist McKenzie Miller said, unlike other summer staples such as barbecues that typically don’t end up with a need for floral decorations.
In terms of good flowers for long-lasting arrangements, Miller said hardier, if not quite as flashy, flowers such as carnations can take some of the elements. She also mentioned stargazer lilies as being fairly resilient.
Although Miller has only been out on her own for a few years, her experience dates back nearly her entire life, she said. Growing up being babysat by her grandmother, herself a florist for decades, Miller picked up the trade to a point where she said it was “second nature” to her.
Once the party’s over and the flowers come back inside, general practices of longevity apply, such as changing water and recutting stems every few days, though Miller added that those with air conditioning have an advantage in beating the heat.
For those looking for flowers that last, Miller said the fresher the better. In some instances, bigger chain stores may have flowers that have been frozen, which keeps them intact during transport but not so much when home.
“You put them in water and they die in a couple of days because they are not fresh,” Miller said.
Regarding quintessential summer flowers for seasonally-themed events, the answer might be obvious — sunflowers. The plant with “sun” in its name is a favorite, Miller said, and it has the hardiness to stay strong in the heat.
A big mistake? Soft-leaved flowers out in the heat, Miller said. She mentioned that those looking to throw something like peonies in their bridal bouquets should probably rethink their plans.
“If you are going to have flowers outside and you want them to look OK for more than 15 minutes, you don’t want soft-petaled flowers, because they will die so fast,” Miller said.
