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Flower Delivery to Tempe AZ
Sending flowers in Tempe, Arizona is more than a gesture – it's about embracing the desert city's unique seasons and climate. With over 300 sunny days a year and distinctively hot, dry summers and mild winters, choosing the right blooms for the right time can make your gift extra special. At Lily's Florist, we've delivered countless bouquets across the Valley of the Sun, and we know seasonal savvy is key. This guide will walk you through what flowers to send and when, season by season, ensuring your floral gift arrives fresh, beautiful, and full of meaning.
We'll explore spring's wildflower-inspired wonders, summer's heat-proof blooms, autumn's warm-hued arrangements, and winter's festive florals – all tailored to Tempe's environment. Whether you're celebrating a graduation at ASU, brightening someone's day during a July heatwave, or sending holiday cheer, our expert tips and local insights will help you choose the perfect bouquet. Let's dive into Tempe's seasons in bloom!
Tempe Flower Delivery - a Quick Take
In Tempe’s desert climate, pick flowers that match each season: pastel tulips, daffodils and daisies for spring’s wildflower vibe; heat-proof sunflowers, tropical orchids and succulents for scorching summers; warm-toned chrysanthemums, marigolds and sunflowers for autumn’s softer light; and festive reds, whites and evergreens or sleek all-white lilies and roses for mild winters and the holiday rush. Order early for big dates, schedule deliveries for cool parts of the day, and rely on Lily’s Florist’s climate-controlled vans and local know-how to keep every bouquet fresh from shop to their doorstep.
Flower Delivery Tempe AZ
Same-day delivery if you order by 1 PM (Monday–Saturday). Contact us for custom requests.
Spring in Tempe: Desert Flowers & New Beginnings
Spring in Tempe is a season of renewal and unexpected colour. After the mild winter, the Sonoran Desert around the city bursts to life with wildflowers. In fact, wildflower season runs from late February through April, when desert parks are painted with golden poppies, purple lupines, and desert marigolds. It's an especially magical time – picture hiking near Papago Park and seeing blooms carpeting the arid landscape. That natural beauty inspires some of the best spring bouquets.
What flowers to send in spring
Embrace the fresh, delicate blooms that symbolize new beginnings. Think tulips, daffodils, irises, and hyacinths, which are classic spring flowers (often imported to Arizona for the season). Daisies and alstroemeria are great choices too – cheerful, hardy, and available in springy pastel hues. Many Arizona gardeners plant annuals like petunias and geraniums in spring because the weather is perfect; likewise, you can send arrangements that thrive in this pleasant 70°F–80°F range. Lily's Florist's Spring Bouquet – a soft blend of roses, carnations and lush greenery – is a wonderful example. It "captures the essence of a spring garden" with its fresh purple and pink tones, spreading joy with every bloom. Seasonal mixed bouquets or garden-style arrangements that mimic a meadow's bounty are sure to delight.
Local touches
Spring in Tempe also means cactus blossoms. The iconic saguaro cactus flower, Arizona's state flower, begins blooming in May and June, bridging spring and summer. While you won't be sending actual cactus blooms, you can nod to them with white flowers (to echo the saguaro's creamy white petals) or succulents tucked into an arrangement. A bouquet incorporating succulents or desert-inspired elements adds a unique local character. Spring is also when citrus trees in Arizona blossom with heavenly fragrance – a citrus-themed floral gift (perhaps with orange blossoms or lemon leaf foliage) can subtly celebrate that local tradition.
Occasions and stories
Spring is filled with reasons to send flowers. In Tempe, March and April bring graduations at Arizona State University – a bouquet of bold lilies or bright mixed spring flowers is a fantastic congratulatory gift to reflect the optimism of commencement. Mother's Day in May is one of the busiest floristry times; classic choices like pink lilies, tulips, or delicate orchids are popular for moms. (Tip: order early for Mother's Day to ensure timely delivery – it's peak season!). Even if it's "just because," spring bouquets carry the message of renewal and hope. Imagine a Tempe local coming home on a sunny March afternoon to find a surprise floral delivery – soft pastel blooms that practically glow in the spring sunlight, capturing that "sense of shift – longer days, lighter moods, and fresh flowers that practically glow in the sun". Spring in Phoenix Valley truly "hits differently", and your gift can mirror that energy.
Summer in Tempe: Sun-Ready Blooms for the Desert Heat
Summer in Tempe isn't shy about showing off – it's big blue skies, blazing sun, and shimmering heat waves radiating off the pavement. From late May through September, daily highs often soar past 100°F (38°C), and the air is bone-dry except for the dramatic monsoon storms of July and August. While many plants wither in this intense heat, the right flowers delivered thoughtfully will flourish and delight your recipient. In fact, some blooms know how to hold their own in the heat and even seem inspired by the bright desert sun.
What to send in summer
Focus on heat-resistant, hardy flowers that won't wilt at the sight of a thermometer. Our top summer picks include sunflowers – the quintessential sun-loving bloom. Sunflowers thrive in warm conditions and "are heat-loving and can withstand travel in hot weather". Their big, golden faces literally resemble the sun, bringing cheer without being fragile. Tropical flowers are another excellent choice; blooms like orchids, birds of paradise, ginger, and heliconias come from hot climates and naturally handle high temperatures. These exotics add a bold, vacation-like vibe while lasting longer in heat than delicate garden flowers. Sturdy classics like roses (yes, roses!) can also work – with proper hydration, roses are surprisingly durable even in summer. Opt for hardy varieties like spray roses, and request water-filled tubes on the stems for delivery. Other MVPs of Arizona summers include chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, zinnias, carnations, and proteas – all identified as flowers that resist wilting and stay vibrant in warm weather. These blooms have tougher petals or moisture-retaining structures that make them built to last.
For a fun desert twist, you might even consider a succulent bouquet or cactus dish garden – succulents store water in their leaves and laugh in the face of drought. Lily's Florist offers lovely potted cacti and succulent arrangements in our Plants section, which make long-lasting gifts perfect for summer. When sending a summer arrangement, consider choosing designs with bright, bold colours that match the vibrant energy of the season. Summer is not the time for shy blooms – it's the time for hot pinks, sunny yellows, fiery oranges and purples. For instance, our "Laugh Out Loud" bouquet is a hit in summertime: it's a vibrant medley of cheerful sunflowers and bold gerbera daisies, mixed with other lively blooms. This whimsical, easy-care arrangement is literally designed to spread joy without fuss, and it "features a vibrant medley" of hardy flowers that won't flinch in the heat. Try to imagine your loved one stepping into their air-conditioned Tempe home on a 110°F July afternoon, finding a radiant bouquet of sunflowers and gerberas waiting – it's like delivering a slice of sunshine that can be enjoyed indoors, minus the sunburn.
Hot-weather handling
Delivering flowers in an Arizona summer does require some extra care (and at Lily's Florist, we're seasoned experts at this). Timing and temperature are everything. We always transport arrangements in climate-controlled vehicles – blasting the AC to keep blooms cool and happy. If you're scheduling a delivery, aim for morning or late-day when temperatures are a bit lower, and avoid having flowers left outside. Ensure the recipient (or a neighbor) will be available to bring the bouquet indoors upon delivery so it isn't sitting on a hot doorstep. Our team preps summer bouquets with water-filled containers or vials on stems for hydration, and often wraps them in breathable materials (no suffocating plastic) to allow airflow. Once received, advise your loved one to keep the flowers in a cool room, away from direct sunlight or drying vents. With these precautions, even delicate blooms can survive the journey. And remember, same-day delivery is your friend in summer – the shorter the time from our shop to the recipient's hands, the better. (We offer reliable same-day flower delivery in Tempe for orders placed before 2 PM, so you can get those birthday or anniversary flowers delivered fresh, even in August.)
Occasions and sentiments
Summer might be sizzling, but it's full of reasons to send flowers. Maybe you know a student staying in Tempe over summer break who'd love a pick-me-up bouquet, or a friend with a July birthday (sunflowers or bold tropical blooms make fantastic summer birthday gifts). Father's Day in June can be celebrated with more masculine or rustic arrangements (think hardy succulents or sunflowers in a woodsy box). And let's not forget, August sees students returning to ASU for fall semester – a bright "welcome back" bouquet for a dorm or apartment can be a wonderful surprise. On the more somber side, if you're sending sympathy or get-well flowers during the summer, we often suggest hardy lilies or orchids because they handle hospital conditions (and the ride there) well. No matter the occasion, the key in summer is to pair the right flowers with a touch of extra TLC – do that, and your floral gift will arrive as vibrant as a desert sunset.
Fall in Tempe: Warm Hues for Cooler Days
After the long, sweltering summer, fall in Tempe feels like a breath of fresh air – literally. By late September and October, the intense heat begins to ease. Mornings and evenings are balmy, and you might even catch a gentle breeze or two. While Arizona doesn't have a traditional fall with piles of red maple leaves, the desert celebrates the season in its own way. Locals notice subtle changes: the sunlight becomes a little softer, some desert plants put on a second bloom, and the color palette of the landscape shifts from summer brights to more golden, earthy tones. As one Arizona gardener notes, "flowering increases and blooms appear more intense in color due to less intense sun" in fall – the softer sunlight lets fall flowers show off richer hues that might have faded in summer.
What to send in Fall
Fall is all about warm, comforting colours and textures. This is the season to swap out spring's pastels for deep oranges, rusty reds, golden yellows, and burgundy tones. In the floral world, that means marigolds, chrysanthemums, dahlias, and sunflowers are in the spotlight. Chrysanthemums (mums) in particular are fall all-stars – they bloom naturally in fall, come in all those perfect fall shades, and are very long-lasting. A bouquet of orange and red mums mixed with wheat stalks or cattails makes a lovely fall display. Sunflowers are still readily available in early fall (many farms harvest them through September), and their bold presence paired with mini pumpkins or orange alstroemeria can create a gorgeous fall arrangement.
Think of floral designs that mirror an Arizona October sunset – fiery and warm. At Lily's, we love incorporating different textures for fall: seed pods, eucalyptus, dried wheat or grasses, even succulents, to give that harvest-season vibe. Our designers often "lean into texture, depth, and rich, comforting color" for fall arrangements, trading summer's bold tropics for a cozier feel. For example, a customer favorite is an arrangement of roses in mixed fall shades (amber, peach, and burgundy) paired with hypericum berries and bronze daisies – it looks like a bouquet of autumn gathered from a desert garden.
Local notes
Interestingly, some desert plants only bloom in fall once the temperatures drop. The desert fairy duster shrub might give a second showing of its red puffball flowers, and plants like cassia or Texas sage can burst into yellow or purple blooms after summer rains. The Phoenix area often experiences a flush of green and floral revival in September thanks to the late summer monsoonal rains. So, fall can be thought of as a "second spring" in Tempe. You might mirror this in your bouquets by including lilies or snapdragons, which do well in fall weather and bring a fresh garden look. And speaking of cultural touches: in early November, many families in Arizona celebrate Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – vibrant orange marigolds are traditional for that celebration. Gifting a marigold-rich bouquet around that time can be a meaningful nod to the season and local culture, symbolising remembrance and the cycle of life.
Occasions and sentiments
Fall is a season of gratitude and celebration. One of the biggest floral occasions is Thanksgiving. If you can't make it to a family dinner in Tempe, sending a Thanksgiving centerpiece or a bouquet ahead of the holiday is a heartfelt way to share your love. Lily's Florist has a dedicated Thanksgiving collection with arrangements featuring autumn leaves, pumpkins, and candles that make perfect centrepieces for the table. Also, autumn heralds the start of the school year – perhaps you want to congratulate a teacher or send a "good luck" bouquet to a college student at ASU. In October, Sweetest Day and Halloween offer fun reasons for thematic flowers (Sweetest Day calls for romantic or friendship bouquets; Halloween might inspire a funky orange-and-black arrangement for the spirited!). And let's not overlook weddings – fall has become a very popular wedding season in Arizona (the weather is gorgeous).
If you're attending a fall wedding in Tempe or sending wishes to newlyweds, choose bouquets with roses, dahlias, or calla lilies in those rich fall shades for a romantic, seasonal touch. Emotionally, autumn flowers carry a sense of coziness and thankfulness. Picture a lovely November afternoon in Tempe – the sun is gentler, painting everything in honeyed light. You send your friend a bouquet of orange roses, red berries, and golden mums "to bring that feeling to life" indoors. When they place it on their table, it complements the "golden afternoons" and autumn decor perfectly. It's as if you delivered a piece of the fall season right to their home. That connection to the season can make your gift feel especially thoughtful and intimate.
Winter in Tempe: Festive Florals for the Mild Season
When the word winter comes to mind, some people imagine snow and bare trees – but not in Tempe! Winter in Tempe (December through February) is mild and sunny, with average daytime highs in the comfortable 60s and 70s °F. Locals swap snow shovels for sunglasses, and many out-of-state visitors (snowbirds) flock here to enjoy the gentle winter weather. Phoenix-area winters may be mild, but that doesn't mean your floral arrangements have to be – in fact, the cooler season is a wonderful time to play with refined color palettes and seasonal themes. The holidays and special occasions of winter lend themselves to some of the most meaningful flower deliveries of the year.
What to send in winter
With the desert's cooler temperatures, a wider variety of flowers can thrive – including some that prefer cooler air. This season is all about rich, festive colours or crisp wintery elegance. Around Christmas and New Year's, you can't go wrong with the classics: poinsettias (a potted poinsettia plant with its red and green foliage is a traditional favorite for December), amaryllis, red and white roses, carnations, and evergreen sprigs. Holiday arrangements often include touches of pine, holly, cones, or even cinnamon sticks for that cozy vibe. Lily's Florist offers a Christmas collection featuring bouquets decked in red, green, gold, and snowy white – perfect as a table centerpiece or a gift to spread Christmas cheer.
For a modern twist, winter is also a great time for all-white bouquets: imagine elegant white lilies, ivory roses, and delicate baby's breath with silver-gray eucalyptus – it creates a "crisp, clean, winter-appropriate" look that suits the season's sense of peace. Many of our winter designs feature "layered whites, icy pastels, and fresh greenery" to evoke a subtle winter wonderland (even if it's 70°F outside!). This refined palette feels cool and "soft, cool, and refined", bringing a touch of the winter spirit indoors. As the new year rolls into February, the focus shifts to Valentine's Day – the ultimate flower-sending holiday. In Tempe, as elsewhere, romantic red roses are by far the top choice for Valentine's (we stock up heavily on long-stemmed reds for February 14!). You might also consider lilies (which symbolise devotion), tulips, or even Arizona-grown ranunculus and anemones which bloom in late winter and add unique charm. Our Valentine's Day collection includes everything from classic dozen roses to mixed bouquets with pinks, purples, and reds to melt your sweetheart's heart. Winter is also the time for events like New Year's Eve (think glittery arrangements with white and gold flowers) and the Super Bowl or Fiesta Bowl parties for sports fans – a bouquet in your team's colors could be a fun addition!
Local flair
Even in winter, Arizona's flora has some highlights. Citrus trees in the Tempe area usually bloom starting late winter (February) or early spring, filling the air with orange blossom scent – a bouquet with white blossoms or a citrus theme could nod to that. Also, winter rains (if we get any) can prompt an early sprouting of wildflowers by late February. But notably, winter is cactus time too: certain cacti like the Christmas cactus (a popular houseplant) bloom in winter. Gifting a blooming Christmas cactus plant or a succulent terrarium in winter is a nice way to offer something that blooms during the season. And let's not forget, Arizona's official state flower – the saguaro cactus bloom – though it appears later in spring, is commemorated year-round. For a truly Arizona-specific gift in winter, consider adding a saguaro cactus ornament or motif with your flowers for a fun twist.
Occasions and sentiments
Winter is packed with occasions that call for flowers, often with deep emotional resonance. In December, Christmas and Hanukkah are prime times to send arrangements to family and friends. A bouquet of fresh flowers during the holidays can brighten a home filled with desert dwellers who might be missing "traditional" winter scenes – it brings a festive focal point and the message of love and remembrance. For Christmas in Tempe, many people also send arrangements to decorate holiday parties or to say thank you to a host. A luxurious centerpiece with candles, or a whimsical arrangement with ornaments and candy canes, can really enhance the holiday spirit. As we move to January, perhaps you want to start the New Year by thanking someone or encouraging their New Year's resolutions with a fresh bouquet (white flowers for a fresh start are lovely for January).
Valentine's Day (Feb 14) is huge – be sure to order early for Valentine's to secure the best blooms! A surprise Valentine's flower delivery to a workplace in Tempe can be incredibly romantic (and earns major brownie points). We often help customers plan special deliveries to restaurants or sunset locations as well – that's the beauty of our flexible same-day service. Also in late winter, February brings Arizona Statehood Day and International Women's Day (March 8) – you might celebrate a special woman in your life with a bouquet of lilies or orchids on Women's Day, acknowledging her strength and grace. Despite the lack of snow, you can still evoke a "winter wonderland" feeling with your flowers. Imagine delivering a bouquet of white lilies, blue delphiniums, and silver dusty miller foliage to someone on a cool January morning – it's wintery and magical, yet as warm and comforting as Tempe's sunny afternoons. As one local florist put it, winter designs often include "interesting textures and blooms that can handle a cooler edge", styled with extra drama. That means you might see pinecones, curly willow twigs, or glittery accents in winter bouquets for flair. Our goal in winter is to make arrangements that feel seasonally appropriate yet still lush, given that our winter is gentle. And since flowers last even longer in cooler weather, your recipients get to enjoy them for many days, reminding them of your kindness well into the new year.
Practical Tips for Sending Flowers in Tempe's Climate
No matter the season, a few smart tips will ensure your floral gift arrives in perfect condition and delights your recipient:
Plan Around the Heat
In scorching summer months, schedule deliveries for cooler times (mornings or late afternoons) and never let flowers sit outside. If the recipient isn't home, have a neighbor or front desk receive them. Delicate blooms can wilt quickly in 100°F+ heat, so quick, direct hand-off is best. Lily's Florist uses climate-controlled vans and can add ice packs or water vials as needed for long drives, but the sooner those blooms get into air conditioning, the better!
Opt for Same-Day Delivery
If you need flowers during extreme weather (hot or cold), speed is your friend. We offer same-day delivery in Tempe for orders placed by 2 PM. This means your bouquet spends minimal time in transit and arrives fresher. It's especially useful for last-minute occasions or sudden hospital deliveries – a fast delivery can be the difference between slightly limp vs. perky petals.
Choose Seasonally Suitable Blooms
Whenever possible, pick flowers that naturally bloom or thrive in the current season. They'll not only look "in place" but also last longer. For example, send hardy sunflowers or tropicals in summer (they won't mind the warmth), and save the delicate tulips for winter or spring. If you're unsure, ask our florists for guidance – we can recommend what's freshest and best for the time of year. As a rule of thumb, "flowers that can handle the Phoenix climate tend to stay vibrant longer", so we build our designs with those top performers in mind.
Mind the Water Supply
Tempe's air is dry year-round (especially in summer with ~8% humidity). Advise your recipient to replenish vase water frequently and keep flowers out of direct sun or blasting heat vents. In hot months, suggest they add a few ice cubes to the vase water to keep it cool. We include flower food with our bouquets – using it can extend bloom life, especially in arid conditions. Little care steps like changing water every two days and trimming stems will make the bouquet last 7 days or more, giving the recipient more time to enjoy it.
Order Early for Big Occasions
Tempe might not freeze in winter, but Valentine's Day and Mother's Day are freezing cold in how busy they keep florists! To avoid any disappointment, place orders well ahead of major holidays. This ensures you get your first choice of bouquet and delivery slot. Our team at Lily's works extended hours during peak times, but popular arrangements can sell out. Early planning = stress-free gifting, and we can often accommodate special requests (like a particular flower or a morning delivery) if we have advance notice.
Consider the Recipient's Schedule
If you're sending to someone at work (maybe at one of Tempe's corporate offices or ASU campus), check their schedule so flowers aren't delivered after they leave for the day. For home deliveries, ensure someone can receive them, especially in summer. A little coordination goes a long way in keeping blooms fresh and surprise intact.
Leverage Local Expertise
Finally, trust in us – Lily's Florist is a locally owned florist deeply familiar with Tempe and Phoenix Metro. We know the quickest routes, how to cool flowers in an Arizona August, and even those little local details (like which hospitals don't allow lilies in ICU, or which neighborhoods have shaded porches). When in doubt, give us a call. We're happy to use our local experience to make your delivery flawless. You're not just sending flowers; you're also tapping into our years of expertise in desert flower delivery.
Tempe Flower Delivery FAQ
What flowers work best in Tempe's summer heat?
Sunflowers, tropical orchids, succulents, zinnias, and marigolds handle the 100°F+ temperatures. Avoid delicate blooms like tulips during peak summer months.
When should I schedule flower deliveries in extreme heat?
Order for morning or late afternoon delivery when temperatures are cooler. Never let flowers sit outside in summer - ensure someone receives them immediately.
What are the best spring flowers for Tempe?
Tulips, daffodils, daisies, and alstroemeria in pastel colors capture spring's wildflower season. Consider adding succulents for a local desert touch.
Which flowers represent fall in Arizona?
Chrysanthemums, marigolds, dahlias, and sunflowers in warm oranges, reds, and golden yellows. These mirror Arizona's "second spring" blooming period.
What winter flowers work in Tempe's mild climate?
Poinsettias, white lilies, red roses, and evergreen arrangements for holidays. All-white bouquets with silver eucalyptus create elegant winter looks without the snow.
How far in advance should I order for major holidays?
Order early for Valentine's Day and Mother's Day - these are peak times when popular arrangements sell out quickly. Same-day delivery available for orders by 2 PM.
Do flowers last longer in Tempe's dry climate?
Yes, but they need frequent water changes due to low humidity (8% in summer). Add flower food, keep away from heat vents, and trim stems regularly for 7+ day longevity.
Can you deliver flowers to ASU campus?
Yes, we deliver throughout Tempe including Arizona State University. Perfect for graduation celebrations, student care packages, or dorm room deliveries.
What makes a flower arrangement uniquely Arizona?
Incorporate succulents, desert-inspired elements, or white flowers that echo saguaro cactus blooms. Citrus-themed arrangements nod to local orange blossom season.