Valentine’s Day Flowers: Remix
Are roses all that rosy?
The floral industry is often associated with beauty and love, particularly during festive occasions like Valentine’s Day. Did you know that the universal rose which is a popular choice for gifting, has significant negative impacts on the environment and the communities involved in their cultivation?
Intensive farming practices employed to maximise yields often lead to soil degradation, water scarcity, and chemical pollution. The heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers not only harms local ecosystems but also jeopardises the health of farmworkers and surrounding communities.
In regions where roses are grown, water resources are stretched thin, creating competition for this vital necessity. Many rose farms operate in arid areas that require extensive irrigation, exacerbating water shortages and leading to ecological imbalances. The overconsumption of water not only affects the local flora and fauna but also impacts the communities that rely on these water sources for their daily needs.
In addition to water use, the carbon footprint associated with importing roses is a growing concern. Many roses sold in Canada are shipped from countries with lower labour costs, resulting in long transport times that increase greenhouse gas emissions. As consumers become more aware of these detrimental effects, seeking more sustainable options to the ‘rose’ are becoming more popular.
Beautful Rose (if not more beautiful…) Alternatives
There are many beautiful alternatives that can express love and affection just as eloquently and the famous rose. Here are my three top floral options to consider for your loved one this Valentine’s Day:
Tulips: Symbolizing perfect love, tulips come in a variety of vibrant colours and can convey simplicity and sincerity, making them a wonderful choice for someone who appreciates understated beauty.
Lilies: With their large blooms and captivating fragrance, their striking appearance can add a touch of drama to your Valentine's Day gift, ideal for someone who loves bold, distinctive flowers.
Gerbera Daisies: Known for their cheerful and bright colours, gerbera daisies represent admiration and beauty. Their playful presence can bring an element of joy and light-heartedness to your gifting, perfect for celebrating love in a friendly way.
Other lovely additions that offer elements of whymsical delight, love, and beauty:
Delphinium
Anemones
Ranuculus
Wax Flower
How to buy floral alternatives to roses for Valentine’s Day?
When ordering Valentines’s Day flowers this year, simply ask your floral designer to incorporate any of the above blooms in their arrangements instead of roses. The impact will be just as grand, and your recipient (or yourself) will be just as thrilled at the beauty.
