There are countless benefits to choosing local flowers over imported ones. Below are a list of highlights:

Environmental impact & sustainability

A staggering 80% of flowers purchased in the US are still imported. These flowers often travel thousands of miles before they arrive to wholesale centers or florists They are packaged in plastic sleeves, packed into Styrofoam coolers and drenched in preservatives, leaving behind a trail or non-biodegradable waste. The strain on the environment is huge. Locally sourced flowers significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with transportation. Additionally, local growers are more likely to adopt sustainable farming practices, such as controlled irrigation and reduced chemical use, promoting healthier ecosystems.

Chemicals that imported flowers are treated with are not only harmful for the environment, they are also dangerous to you and those who work with them.

Economic Benefits

Purchasing flowers from farms directly supports the local economy. This practice sustains small businesses, creates jobs, and fosters community development. Money spent on local products often recirculates within the community, amplifying economic resilience.

Community Engagement and Well-being

Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness and mental health. Engaging with locally grown flowers creates and fosters relationships within the community and encourages a shared commitment to sustainable practices. The presence of fresh cut flowers contribute positively to our wellbeing and increases those much needed “feel-good” moments. Find more information about this important topic on the Society of American Floristry

Fresh, high quality blooms

Locally grown flowers are harvested shortly before sale, ensuring freshness and longevity. Imported flowers are often cut days or even weeks prior to reaching consumers diminishing their quality and longevity. Local flowers retain their colors and fragrance to delight you for many days after you receive them.

Seasonal Variety and Unique Selections

Local flower farms offer seasonality and provide diverse varieties throughout the year. This seasonal availability allows you to enjoy region-specific flowers that are often unavailable through importers. Embracing these blooms also fosters a deeper connection to the beauty of each unique region.

Taking a intentional approach to caring for cut flowers not only keeps them fresh longer, it also creates a moment of beauty in your daily routine. Here are some tips:

Keep them away from direct sunlight & heat. Too much heat or blazing sunlight will cause flowers to wilt prematurely. If you catch some flowers wilting, remove them from the vase promptly. This prevents bacteria from spreading to healthy blooms.

Avoid putting your bouquets near vents like air conditioning or heaters. Being exposed to constant draft can dry flowers out very quickly.

Keep flowers away from ripening fruit. Surprising it may be, but fruits release ethylene gas, which shortens flower lifespan.

Use Clean, Room-Temperature Water. Change the water every 2 days to keep flowers fresh.

Mist Delicate Flowers. To maintain hydration and freshness, mist the petals of some more delicate flowers like hydrangeas and orchids.

Trim the stems with a pair of sharp snips or knife when changing the water. This opens up the flowers stems to be able to take up water.

Support local florists who follow sustainable design practices (you may have heard of “no foam”) and those who buy from local farms.

Purchase arrangements that are entirely compostable after they fade to minimize waste. Avoid plastic ribbons or wrappers, rubber bands, plastic cards on sticks, etc. Ask instead for recyclable paper, fabric, or other biodegradable materials.

Think of allergies and toxicity. Flowers are amazing to look at, not so much to consume. Make sure to ask your local florist about this before gifting to someone particularly with little ones and pets.

Choose meaningful flowers that symbolize emotions or occasions, making the gift more personal and thoughtful. Think of the receiver’s taste and home. What colors and tones do they like? What would look the most beautiful in their home?

Not sure what to choose? Ask! Those of us who love and work with flowers always have suggestions up our sleeve.