French villages and towns are struggling to maintain their floral displays due to an extreme drought and heatwave, with many plants, trees, and shrubs dying from a lack of water. The "Villes et villages fleuris" (Flowered Towns and Villages) label, which awards communes for their floral and green spaces, is currently holding its National Meetings in Angers to discuss the effects of climate change on its standards. This summer has been the hottest on record, accompanied by a severe drought that has forced many communes to restrict watering of flowerbeds, trees, lawns, and potted plants, except for newly planted species. As a result, flowerpots and hanging baskets across the country have been left empty, marking a significant shift in how these communities manage their green spaces. In the village of Notre-Dame-de-Monts, which has a population of 2,600, Frédéric Ecomard, who oversees the town's green spaces, reported that even hardy plants like Phormiums and ivy failed to survive the extreme heat. In the past, the village used Indian marigolds, geraniums, and begonias, watering them two to three times a week. However, in response to the drought, Ecomard's team has shifted to using drought-resistant plants and mulch to help retain moisture in the soil. Similar adaptations are being made across France, as technical services work to manage the increasing challenges of a warmer climate with prolonged dry summers. The "Villes et villages fleuris" label, established in 1959, has updated its evaluation criteria to include environmental management, tree monitoring, and water conservation. Julien Faivre, director of the National Council of Flowered Towns and Villages, explained that the label now considers more than just floral decoration. The association has adjusted its 70 evaluation criteria to support communes of all sizes, from small villages with just 150 residents to larger cities. In Blois, Nicolas Orgelet, the first deputy for sustainable development, noted that gardeners are now favoring perennials over more water-intensive ornamental flowers. Residents have not voiced complaints about these changes, with Orgelet stating that people expect cooling effects and environmental benefits rather than just aesthetic improvements. Despite the challenges, communes remain committed to maintaining their "4 flowers" label, which recognizes their efforts in creating and preserving green spaces. In Notre-Dame-de-Monts, Ecomard and his team are working hard to maintain their status, even as they navigate internal discussions about how to preserve certain traditional floral displays.