Toronto Condo Living? Here Are the Best Flowers and Plants for Small Spaces
Living in a Toronto condo often means getting creative with your space, and that includes your indoor greenery. Whether you’re nestled in a downtown high-rise or living in a boutique building in Leslieville, bringing nature indoors can make your condo feel vibrant, welcoming, and full of life.
At Willem & Jools, we believe that no space is too small for flowers or plants. In fact, with the right varieties, even the tiniest corner can flourish. In this blog, we’re sharing the best flowers and plants for small-space living in Toronto that thrive indoors, look beautiful year-round, and won’t take over your home.
Why Plants and Flowers Belong in Every Condo
Toronto’s fast-paced urban lifestyle can be stressful, and incorporating greenery into your condo is a simple way to add calm, colour, and a touch of nature. Beyond aesthetic appeal, indoor plants also offer proven benefits:
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Improve air quality by filtering toxins
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Boost mood and creativity
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Create visual interest in neutral or minimalist interiors
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Make your space feel fresh, clean, and alive
Whether you’re a plant lover or a condo-dweller looking for low-maintenance options, there’s something on this list for you.
Best Indoor Plants for Small Spaces
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
A classic for condo living, the snake plant is upright, architectural, and takes up very little floor space. It’s known for purifying air and thriving on neglect, perfect for busy Torontonians.
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Needs: Low to bright indirect light
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Water: Every 2–3 weeks
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Ideal for: Corners, entryways, and beside bookshelves
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
This glossy, dark green plant is practically indestructible. It grows slowly and doesn’t need much light, making it ideal for condos with limited natural sunlight.
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Needs: Low light, minimal care
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Water: Every 2–3 weeks
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Ideal for: Bedroom dressers, desktops, or floating shelves
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
If you want trailing vines that grow quickly and look lush, pothos is your best bet. It’s beautiful in hanging planters or cascading off a shelf.
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Needs: Medium light, but tolerates low light
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Water: Once a week
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Ideal for: Wall planters, window sills, or kitchen shelves
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Elegant and flower-producing, peace lilies offer lush green leaves and occasional white blooms. They also help filter indoor air.
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Needs: Low to medium light
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Water: Once the soil is dry
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Ideal for: Bathroom or bedroom corners
5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Compact, colourful, and low maintenance, this plant has speckled or patterned leaves that add personality to small spaces.
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Needs: Indirect light
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Water: Every 10–14 days
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Ideal for: Office nooks or console tables
Best Flowers for Condo Living
Cut flowers are a quick way to brighten your space without the long-term commitment of plants. But not all flowers are ideal for condos. The best ones are long-lasting, require little maintenance, and suit small arrangements.
1. Orchids
Elegant and exotic, orchids are perfect for small spaces. With proper care, they bloom for weeks and add instant sophistication to any condo interior.
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Placement: Bright, indirect light
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Best for: Side tables or bathroom counters
2. Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lilies)
Known for their longevity, these flowers can last up to two weeks in a vase and come in a wide range of colours. They're ideal for weekly floral refreshes.
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Placement: Dining table or kitchen island
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Best for: Budget-conscious beauty
3. Tulips (in season)
In springtime, tulips are a top choice for condo dwellers. They’re vibrant, elegant, and look beautiful in a single-stem vase or a tight bundle.
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Placement: Living room shelves or windowsills
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Best for: Seasonal decorating
4. Miniature Roses
If you’re looking for a potted flowering plant, miniature roses offer a lush feel without taking up too much room.
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Placement: Balcony or sunny windows
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Best for: Transitional indoor-outdoor styling
5. Dried or Preserved Flowers
Perfect for long-term décor, dried arrangements require no care and take up very little space. At Willem & Jools, we offer handcrafted dried floral arrangements that work beautifully in condo settings.
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Placement: Entryway, vanity, or open shelving
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Best for: Zero-maintenance style
Space-Saving Tips for Condo Greenery
Even in a small condo, you can work plants and flowers into your décor without sacrificing living space. Here’s how:
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Use vertical space: Wall-mounted planters or vertical shelves let you go green without cluttering surfaces.
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Choose compact containers: Avoid oversized pots. Choose modern, minimalist containers to keep the space visually light.
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Group in odd numbers: Three small plants together often look better than one large one.
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Mix textures: Combine leafy greens, succulents, and trailing vines to create contrast in a small arrangement.
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Add mirrors: Mirrors placed behind plants can double the visual impact while bouncing light into darker corners.
How to Choose the Right Plants for Your Condo
When choosing plants or flowers for a small Toronto condo, consider:
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Lighting: South-facing condos get more sun; north-facing ones may need low-light plants.
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Lifestyle: Travelling often? Stick with low-maintenance plants like ZZ or snake plants.
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Pets: Some plants (like lilies or pothos) are toxic to cats or dogs. Ask your florist or plant shop for pet-safe options.
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Humidity: Bathrooms are great for tropical plants like ferns or orchids.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’re here to help. At Willem & Jools, we offer expert advice and handpicked florals tailored to your home and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Living in a Toronto condo doesn’t mean sacrificing the joy of plants and flowers. With the right choices, even a modest floor plan can feel like a green oasis. Whether you prefer a single elegant orchid, a cluster of lush potted greens, or fresh-cut flowers delivered weekly, you can easily bring beauty and life into your condo without taking up precious space.
Let Willem & Jools help you transform your condo into a vibrant, plant-friendly sanctuary. From curated arrangements to long-lasting potted plants, we’ll help you choose florals that fit your space, light, and lifestyle.
FAQs: Condo Plants and Flowers in Toronto
What plants are best for low-light Toronto condos?
ZZ plants, snake plants, and pothos all do well in low-light conditions. They’re low maintenance and ideal for busy lifestyles.
Are orchids hard to care for in a condo?
Not at all. Orchids need bright, indirect light and minimal watering, making them a great option for Toronto condos.
Can I grow herbs in a condo kitchen?
Yes! Basil, mint, and parsley grow well in small pots near a sunny window. They’re perfect for cooking and add a fresh scent to your kitchen.
How long do fresh-cut flowers last in a condo?
With proper care, cut flowers like alstroemeria or tulips can last 7–14 days. Change the water every few days and trim stems regularly.
Do you deliver flowers or plants in Toronto?
Yes, Willem & Jools offers flower and plant delivery throughout Toronto and the GTA. We specialize in handcrafted, seasonal arrangements perfect for condo living.
Wedding Flowers on a Budget in Toronto: What You Can Save On
Planning a wedding in Toronto is exciting, but it can also be expensive. From the venue to the dress, costs can quickly add up, and floral arrangements are often one of the more surprising budget busters. But beautiful wedding flowers don’t have to break the bank. With smart choices and a little flexibility, you can have stunning floral décor that reflects your style, without overspending.
At Willem & Jools, we believe that every couple deserves garden-fresh, handcrafted arrangements, no matter their budget. In this blog, we’ll share expert tips on how Toronto couples can save on wedding flowers, which floral elements to prioritize, and where it’s safe to scale back, without sacrificing beauty.
Why Wedding Flowers Cost So Much
Before we get into budget-saving strategies, it’s helpful to understand what you’re paying for with wedding flowers:
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Seasonal availability: Some blooms are only available at certain times of the year and may need to be imported if not in season.
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Labour and design: Each bouquet, boutonnière, and arrangement is handcrafted with attention to colour, texture, and proportion.
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Setup and delivery: Toronto venues vary in accessibility, timing, and floral guidelines. Setting up logistics can increase costs.
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Floral lifespan: Flowers are perishable. Keeping them fresh from farm to wedding day requires expertise and care.
That said, there are plenty of ways to have beautiful wedding flowers in Toronto without spending a small fortune.
What You Can Save On
1. Non-Essential Floral Décor
Large installations like floral arches, aisle petals, or elaborate centrepieces can be showstoppers—but they’re also budget eaters.
Where to save:
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Repurpose ceremony flowers at the reception.
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Skip fresh floral aisle markers and opt for candles or greenery instead.
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Consider minimalist bud vases or potted plants for guest tables.
Pro tip: Ask your florist which arrangements can be moved between locations. At Willem & Jools, we often design with a dual purpose in mind.
2. Imported or Out-of-Season Flowers
Toronto couples often dream of exotic blooms, but importing peonies in winter or orchids from Asia comes at a premium.
Where to save:
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Stick with in-season, Ontario-grown flowers like dahlias in summer or ranunculus in spring.
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Ask your florist to substitute high-cost blooms with lookalikes (e.g., lisianthus instead of roses, or carnations instead of peonies).
Pro tip: Locally-grown flowers are not only more affordable, they’re fresher and more sustainable.
3. Overstuffed Bouquets and Arrangements
It’s a myth that bigger equals better. In reality, thoughtful composition and colour coordination make a bigger impact than size.
Where to save:
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Choose airy, asymmetrical designs that use fewer stems.
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Incorporate more greenery or textured fillers like amaranthus or waxflower.
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Go for hand-tied bouquets instead of tightly packed ones that require more blooms.
Pro tip: Our Dutch-inspired arrangements at Willem & Jools focus on form, balance, and movement, not just quantity.
4. Multiple Boutonnières and Corsages
Corsages and boutonnières can quickly multiply when extended to every parent, grandparent, and sibling.
Where to save:
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Limit personal flowers to the wedding party and key family members.
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Swap wrist corsages for simple nosegays or skip them entirely.
Pro tip: If your style is modern or minimalist, you might skip boutonnières altogether and still keep things elegant.
5. Overly Elaborate Centrepieces
Towering floral centrepieces look stunning in photos, but they often cost hundreds each.
Where to save:
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Mix high and low arrangements for a dynamic tablescape.
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Alternate floral centrepieces with candles, lanterns, or fresh greenery.
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Focus on the head table and keep guest tables simpler.
Pro tip: In smaller Toronto venues, tall arrangements can block views and feel overpowering. Simpler often works better in intimate spaces.
Where to Invest
Knowing where to save is important, but it’s just as critical to know where flowers really matter.
Bridal Bouquet
Your bouquet will be photographed more than anything else. It’s worth making this arrangement personal and picture-perfect.
Ceremony Focal Point
Whether it’s a floral arch, chuppah, or statement urns, the ceremony backdrop is a key photo moment. Choose one strong focal point rather than spreading flowers thin.
Reception Welcome Area
The first impression matters. A small statement piece at your welcome table or seating chart can elevate the space without a huge investment.
Budget-Friendly Flower Options in Toronto
If you’re looking for value, consider the following options that are both beautiful and cost-effective:
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Daisies, chrysanthemums, and carnations – Affordable, long-lasting, and available year-round.
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Seasonal greenery – Eucalyptus, ferns, salal, and ruscus add texture and volume at a low cost.
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Ontario-grown blooms – Support local flower farms and reduce shipping costs by choosing locally sourced florals.
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Dried or preserved flowers – On-trend and reusable, especially for fall or winter weddings.
Additional Tips for Stretching Your Floral Budget
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Be open to colour palettes: Flexibility lets florists use what’s freshest and most affordable.
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Book early: Toronto’s best florists book up quickly. Lock in your date and budget range early for the best selection.
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Limit setup locations: One venue = fewer delivery charges and less setup time.
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Reuse everything: Ceremony florals can become sweetheart table décor or bar arrangements.
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Trust your florist: Give a general style and budget, and let the designer work their magic within those limits.
Final Thoughts
Toronto couples don’t need to sacrifice floral beauty to stay within budget. With strategic choices and a bit of creativity, you can enjoy fresh, handcrafted wedding flowers that reflect your unique style, without overspending. At Willem & Jools, we specialize in helping couples create stunning garden-style arrangements tailored to both vision and budget.
FAQs: Wedding Flowers on a Budget in Toronto
How much should I budget for wedding flowers in Toronto?
Most couples in Toronto spend between $1,500 and $3,000 on wedding flowers. Budget-friendly options can start around $800 for essential items only.
When is the best time to book a florist?
Ideally, 6–9 months before your wedding. Spring and summer weddings book out fastest.
Are locally-grown flowers cheaper?
Yes, Ontario-grown flowers are typically more affordable and fresher than imported options.
Can I DIY my own wedding flowers?
While possible, DIY florals require time, space, and proper handling. For most couples, it’s less stressful to work with a professional.
Do florists offer wedding flower packages?
Some florists, including Willem & Jools, offer curated wedding packages for elopements or intimate ceremonies. These are ideal for budget-conscious couples.
Looking for affordable wedding flowers in Toronto?
Get in touch with us at Willem & Jools for seasonal, handcrafted floral designs that honour your style and your budget. Let’s bring your floral vision to life, beautifully and affordably.
Best Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants for Busy Toronto Lifestyles
You don’t need a green thumb (or hours of free time) to enjoy the beauty of indoor plants. Whether you live in a cozy condo or a bustling downtown home, the right greenery can bring calm, style, and fresh air into your space with minimal upkeep.
If you’re juggling a busy schedule or just starting your plant journey, here are our favourite low-maintenance indoor plants perfect for Toronto living.
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why it works for you: Practically indestructible, the ZZ plant thrives in low light and only needs watering every 2–3 weeks. Its thick, glossy leaves add an elegant, sculptural vibe to any space, from minimalist condos to classic brownstones.
Toronto tip: Perfect for north-facing rooms or offices with little natural light.
2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Why it works for you: Also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue,” this hardy plant tolerates low light, dry air, and irregular watering. It even improves air quality while you sleep.
Watering: Once every 2–3 weeks. Let the soil dry out fully.
Bonus: It’s pet-safe if placed out of reach, mildly toxic if chewed.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why it works for you: Fast-growing and forgiving, pothos is perfect for plant newbies. They trail beautifully from shelves or hanging planters and thrive in all types of light (though they love bright, indirect light best).
Care tip: Water the plant once the top of the soil feels dry, usually every 1–2 weeks. Trim vines to keep them full and lush.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why it works for you: Elegant and expressive, the peace lily tells you exactly what it needs, it’ll gently droop when thirsty, then perk up dramatically after a drink. It also blooms indoors with little effort.
Care tip: Loves medium to low light and weekly watering. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why it works for you: Gorgeous patterned foliage and serious tolerance for low light and inconsistent watering? Yes, please. It’s a favourite for high-rise living in Toronto, where lighting can be unpredictable.
Fun fact: It’s known to purify the air, a major plus during winter when windows stay shut tight.
6. Succulents (Various Types)
Why it works for you: If you really forget to water, succulents might be your soulmate. They come in endless shapes and colours and need very little attention — just bright light and a light watering every few weeks.
Caution: Succulents can be sensitive to overwatering, especially in humid summer months. A sunny windowsill is ideal.
7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Why it works for you: True to its name, this plant is almost unkillable. It handles neglect, dust, low light, and temperature swings, all common in downtown apartments.
Watering: Once the soil dries out, typically every 10–14 days.
8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Why it works for you: This nostalgic ‘70s favourite is making a huge comeback. It grows fast, produces cute “babies,” and is non-toxic to pets. Perfect for hanging baskets or tall shelves.
Toronto tip: Spider plants love humidity, so they’re ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.
Plant Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
The key to indoor plant success in a busy city like Toronto? Choose the right plants, set reminders for watering, and don’t overthink it. Most low-maintenance plants actually prefer being left alone a little.
At Willem & Jools, our curated plant collection includes the best low-fuss greenery that works with your lifestyle, not against it. Whether you're a plant lover short on time or buying a gift for someone who needs more calm in their space, we’ve got the right fit.
FAQs: Low-Maintenance Plants in Toronto
Q: How often should I water low-maintenance indoor plants?
A: Most low-maintenance plants need watering every 1–3 weeks, depending on light, temperature, and pot size. Always check the soil first, if it’s dry an inch below the surface, it’s usually time.
Q: Can I keep indoor plants in a condo with little natural light?
A: Absolutely. Look for plants like snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, and Chinese evergreens; they all do well in low-light conditions.
Q: Are any of these plants safe for pets?
A: Spider plants and certain succulents (like Haworthia) are non-toxic. But plants like peace lilies and snake plants can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach.
Q: What’s the easiest indoor plant for beginners?
A: The ZZ plant is often called the “set-it-and-forget-it” plant. It’s incredibly hardy and stylish — perfect for beginners.
Q: Do indoor plants really help with air quality?
A: Yes, many indoor plants, including peace lilies, snake plants, and Chinese evergreens, are known for their air-purifying abilities, especially helpful during winter months indoors.
How to Keep Flowers and Plants Fresh During a Toronto Heatwave
There’s nothing quite like a fresh bouquet or thriving plant to brighten up your home, but in the middle of a Toronto heatwave? That’s another story. With soaring summer temps and sticky humidity, keeping your flowers and plants fresh can feel like a full-time job.
Luckily, with a few expert tips (and a little love), you can keep your blooms looking beautiful and your plants perky, no matter how high the mercury climbs.
1. Keep Them Cool (But Not in the Fridge)
While you might be tempted to pop your bouquet in the fridge, drastic temperature changes can shock delicate blooms. Instead, place arrangements in a cool, shaded spot away from direct sunlight, AC vents, and heat sources like stoves or electronics.
For indoor plants, consider moving them away from windows during peak afternoon heat. Toronto apartments and condos with big south-facing windows? Try sheer curtains or a plant stand a few feet back.
2. Refresh the Water Daily
Hot weather = faster water evaporation. In the summer, your bouquet will thank you for a fresh water change every day. Rinse the vase, refill it with cool water, and re-trim the stems by about ½ inch to help your flowers absorb more water.
Pro tip: Add a floral preservative or a DIY mix (a pinch of sugar, lemon juice, and a drop of bleach) to keep bacteria at bay.
3. Mist Gently and Often
Humidity isn’t all bad; many flowers and tropical plants love a light mist. Spritzing your bouquet and leafy plants with water (especially in the morning) helps boost hydration. Avoid misting succulents or anything with fuzzy leaves, as moisture can lead to mold.
4. Watch for Wilting and Rotate Often
In a Toronto heatwave, even the hardiest blooms can start to fade. Check your arrangements daily and remove any wilting petals or browning stems to keep the rest of the bouquet fresher longer. For potted plants, rotate them every few days to prevent uneven sun exposure.
5. Choose Summer-Strong Flowers
Want blooms that last longer in the heat? Go for summer stars like zinnias, sunflowers, lisianthus, and alstroemeria. These flowers hold up better in high temperatures, and they look amazing in vibrant, garden-style arrangements.
When you order from Willem & Jools, we always choose seasonal, heat-hardy blooms that can handle the Toronto summer (and still look stunning).
6. Don’t Overwater Your Plants
It might feel counterintuitive, but more sun doesn’t always mean more water. Overwatering during a heatwave can drown your plants and lead to root rot, especially for indoor greenery. Stick to a schedule, use well-draining soil, and always check the top inch of soil before watering.
7. Go Green with Placement
For plants on your balcony or porch, group them together to create a microclimate. This helps retain humidity and protects delicate leaves from drying out. You can also place containers inside larger pots with mulch to insulate them from extreme heat.
Your Summer Blooms, Delivered Fresh
At Willem & Jools, we handcraft every bouquet with fresh, seasonal flowers chosen for beauty and durability. Whether you're sending love across the GTA or picking up something special for yourself, we’ll make sure your blooms arrive garden-fresh, even in the middle of a heatwave.
Looking for long-lasting flowers or low-maintenance indoor plants that can handle the heat? Shop our summer collection today, and let the sunshine in.
Planning a Toronto Wedding? Here Are 2025’s Trending Wedding Flowers
Planning a wedding is an exciting journey with so many choices to make, and choosing the right flowers is one of the big ones. Whether you’re aiming for a grand affair or an intimate gathering, the right floral arrangements can set the tone for your entire celebration. From lush, cascading bouquets to minimalist, modern designs, the possibilities are endless. To help you stay on trend, here’s a guide to 2025’s most popular wedding flowers, perfect for Toronto’s vibrant wedding scene.
How Flowers Transform Your Wedding Atmosphere
Flowers do much more than just add colour and fragrance to your wedding day. They help set the mood, tell a story, and create unforgettable moments. Here’s how:
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Flowers add romance, colour, and personality to your big day.
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They create memorable backdrops for photos, adding texture and dimension that reflect your personal style.
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The right blooms can evoke powerful emotions, from the soft elegance of peonies to the bold passion of red roses.
Top Flower Trends for Toronto Weddings in 2025
Dutch-Style and Garden-Style Arrangements
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Inspired by the lush, layered look of traditional Dutch still-life paintings, these arrangements feature a mix of bold, oversized blooms and delicate filler flowers for a natural, flowing appearance.
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Hand-tied bouquets inspired by the Dutch tradition are perfect for couples seeking a classic yet organic aesthetic, often incorporating flowers like peonies, garden roses, and trailing greenery for a timeless look.
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These arrangements work beautifully in garden venues, historic estates, and rustic barn settings, adding a touch of European elegance.
Locally Sourced Blooms
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More couples are choosing eco-friendly flowers to reduce their carbon footprint.
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Toronto’s local farms offer beautiful, seasonal options like dahlias, sunflowers, peonies, and locally grown roses.
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Supporting local farms not only reduces your wedding’s environmental impact but also ensures fresher, more vibrant blooms.
Bold, Moody Palettes
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Deep hues like burgundy, plum, navy, and even black are making a comeback for dramatic, romantic themes.
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These colours pair beautifully with lush greenery and metallic accents for a modern, moody vibe.
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Consider pairing dark blooms with lighter, contrasting colours for added depth and visual interest.
Dried and Preserved Flowers
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Dried florals are becoming a major trend for their unique texture, long-lasting nature, and vintage charm.
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Pampas grass, preserved roses, and dried lavender add a rustic, boho vibe, perfect for couples who want something a bit unconventional.
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These arrangements are also great for keepsakes, allowing couples to preserve a piece of their special day.
Unique Floral Installations
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Hanging arrangements, floral arches, and aisle runners are popular for adding dramatic, memorable touches to your ceremony and reception spaces.
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Personalized floral chandeliers, suspended blooms, and floral walls are becoming must-haves for statement-making decor.
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For a dramatic effect, consider oversized installations that blend flowers, greenery, and even dried elements.
Classic Elegance with Modern Twists
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Timeless flowers like roses, hydrangeas, and lilies remain popular, but with unexpected colour pairings and artistic, asymmetrical designs.
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Mixing classic blooms with modern, minimalistic accents like structured vases and metallic stands adds a contemporary feel.
Seasonal Flower Favourites for Toronto Weddings
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Spring: Tulips, lilacs, and ranunculus for fresh, vibrant looks.
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Summer: Peonies, garden roses, and sunflowers for lush, full arrangements.
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Fall: Dahlias, marigolds, and chrysanthemums for rich, warm tones.
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Winter: Amaryllis, hellebores, and evergreens for a cozy, classic feel.
Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Flowers
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Consider your venue’s style and colour scheme to ensure your flowers complement the overall aesthetic.
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Work closely with a florist in Toronto, like Willem & Jools, to find blooms that match your theme, budget, and personal taste.
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Think about your bouquet shape – cascading, round, hand-tied, or structured?
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Don’t forget to include personal touches like family heirlooms, meaningful blooms, or symbolic flowers that represent your love story.
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If you’re a Toronto couple, consider visiting Willem and Jools Flowers for personalized consultations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flowers for your Toronto wedding can transform your celebration into a truly unforgettable event. Whether you opt for sustainable, locally sourced blooms or dramatic, moody palettes, make sure your floral choices reflect your unique love story. For personalized, high-quality arrangements, consider working with Willem and Jools Flowers, Toronto’s trusted florist for bespoke wedding designs.
FAQs
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What are the most popular wedding flowers for 2025?
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Expect to see a mix of classic favourites like roses and peonies, alongside trendy choices like dried florals and bold colour palettes.
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Can I use locally grown flowers for my wedding in Toronto?
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Yes, many beautiful flowers like tulips, sunflowers, and peonies are locally available in season.
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How do I choose the right bouquet style?
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Consider your dress, venue, and overall wedding theme when selecting your bouquet shape.
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Why should I consider professional floral design for my wedding?
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Professional florists like Willem and Jools Flowers can guide you in selecting the perfect blooms, creating bespoke designs that capture your wedding’s unique style and atmosphere.
Best Summer Flowers That Can Handle Toronto Heat
Toronto’s summers can be hot and humid, which can be a challenge for fresh flowers. However, with the right selections, you can still enjoy vibrant, long-lasting blooms all season. Whether you’re planning a summer wedding, decorating your patio, or simply adding some colour to your home, choosing heat-tolerant flowers is the key. Here’s a guide to the best summer flowers that can handle Toronto’s heat while adding beauty and colour to your space.
Why Choose Heat-Tolerant Summer Flowers?
Heat-tolerant flowers are a practical choice for Toronto’s often unpredictable summers. They can thrive in full sun, resist drought, and stand up to high humidity without wilting. These resilient blooms not only add vibrant colour to your garden but also reduce the time and effort needed for maintenance. Plus, many of these flowers are pollinator-friendly, helping to support local bee and butterfly populations. Choosing heat-tolerant flowers can transform your garden into a low-maintenance oasis that blooms all summer long.
Top Heat-Tolerant Summer Flowers for Toronto Gardens
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a summer staple known for their bold, cheerful blooms that thrive in full sun. These heat-loving giants can reach impressive heights, making them a stunning focal point in any garden. Sunflowers are also highly adaptable, tolerating a wide range of soil conditions as long as they have plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Popular varieties like Helianthus annuus (common sunflower) and Helianthus debilis (beach sunflower) are particularly hardy and can bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Sunflowers are excellent for pollinator gardens, attracting bees, butterflies, and even birds once their seeds mature. They pair beautifully with other summer favourites like zinnias, lavender, and marigolds for a vibrant, sun-soaked arrangement.
Zinnias
Zinnias are among the most versatile and resilient summer flowers, known for their bright, bold colours and impressive heat tolerance. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them a great choice for garden borders, cut flower arrangements, and pollinator gardens. Available in nearly every colour of the rainbow, zinnias are perfect for adding a pop of colour to any garden.
These fast-growing annuals bloom continuously throughout the summer, attracting butterflies and other beneficial insects. For a striking display, consider pairing them with sunflowers, cosmos, or marigolds.
Marigolds
Marigolds are incredibly popular for their vibrant orange and yellow blooms, as well as their natural pest-repelling properties. These heat-loving plants are perfect for hot, sunny gardens and are incredibly low-maintenance. Their strong scent helps deter common garden pests, making them a popular choice for companion planting with vegetables.
Varieties like Tagetes patula (French marigold) and Tagetes erecta (African marigold) thrive in Toronto’s summer heat, providing continuous colour from early summer to the first frost. They also make excellent cut flowers, adding a bright, cheerful touch to summer bouquets.
Geraniums
Geraniums are classic summer flowers known for their ability to thrive in hot, sunny conditions. These hardy plants are available in a wide range of colours, including red, pink, white, and even bi-colour varieties, making them a versatile choice for gardens, window boxes, and patio planters.
To keep geraniums blooming all summer, be sure to deadhead spent flowers regularly and provide them with well-drained soil and moderate watering. They pair beautifully with other heat-loving flowers like lavender and petunias for a classic summer garden look.
Lavender
Lavender is a must-have for summer gardens, known for its calming fragrance, silvery foliage, and impressive heat tolerance. This Mediterranean herb thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for rock gardens, borders, and cottage gardens. Dried lavender can also be used in DIY projects, potpourri, or as a natural air freshener.
Lavender pairs beautifully with roses, echinacea, and other perennials for a classic, cottage-style garden. Its flowers also attract bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for pollinator gardens.
Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers, also known as echinacea, are tough, drought-resistant perennials that can handle the heat of Toronto summers. Known for their distinctive, spiky centers and daisy-like petals, coneflowers come in a variety of colours, including purple, pink, white, and orange. They are perfect for wildflower gardens, low-maintenance landscapes, and prairie-style plantings.
Coneflowers are also valued for their medicinal properties and long blooming season, making them a great choice for gardens that need a burst of colour from mid-summer to early fall. Pair them with other drought-resistant plants like lavender, yarrow, or Russian sage for a cohesive, low-maintenance garden.
Tips for Keeping Your Summer Flowers Healthy
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Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root systems. Early morning is the best time to water to reduce evaporation.
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Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
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Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy blooms throughout the season.
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Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.
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Soil: Choose well-drained soil to prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues.
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Pest Management: Consider companion planting with marigolds to naturally repel pests and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flowers for summer in Toronto means selecting varieties that can stand up to heat, humidity, and bright sunlight. With their resilience and stunning colours, these heat-tolerant blooms are perfect for gardens, patios, and cut flower arrangements. For personalized advice and high-quality blooms, consider visiting Willem and Jools Flowers for expert guidance on selecting the best flowers and plants for your space.
FAQs
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How often should I water heat-tolerant flowers in Toronto?
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Most heat-tolerant flowers prefer deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root growth.
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Can I grow these flowers in containers?
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Yes, many heat-tolerant flowers like geraniums and lavender do well in pots and planters.
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What flowers pair well with sunflowers?
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Sunflowers pair beautifully with zinnias, marigolds, and lavender for a vibrant summer arrangement.
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Do heat-tolerant flowers need fertilizer?
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While not always necessary, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can help boost blooms and overall health.
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Can I use these flowers for indoor arrangements?
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Absolutely! Many of these flowers make excellent cut flowers for summer bouquets.
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What are the best companion plants for heat-tolerant flowers?
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Consider pairing them with other drought-resistant plants like lavender, rosemary, or Russian sage for a cohesive, low-maintenance garden.
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Florist-Approved Tips for Keeping Your Bouquet Fresh After Delivery
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Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Pairing Flowers with Local Toronto Treats
Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to show your appreciation, and nothing says “I love you” quite like a personalized, thoughtful gift. This year, why not go beyond the usual and create a memorable pairing of beautiful flowers with delicious, locally made treats from Toronto?