In the enchanting world of flowers, embracing local isn't merely a trend—it's a conscious choice that ripples through our environment, our global economy, and affects the health of industry workers. Let's delve into why choosing local flowers truly matters:
Reducing Global Footprint:
The floral industry often spans the globe, with blooms traversing extensive distances to grace your vase. Did you know that 90% of the flowers imported into the US arrive through Miami International Airport? From Mid-January leading up to Valentine’s Day, a staggering 830 million stems have passed through customs in Miami. For our Boise customers, these flowers then embark on a journey from Miami to local wholesale stores, making the choice of local flowers crucial in minimizing the environmental impact of long-distance transportation.
Avoiding Unregulated Chemicals:
Imported flowers may not adhere to the same pesticide and herbicide regulations as their locally grown counterparts. Cultivating our own blooms ensures arrangements free from potentially harmful chemicals, benefiting both growers and arrangers alike. Startling studies among florists using imported flowers revealed over 100 different chemicals applied to the stems they arrange, contributing to higher rates of cancer, reproductive issues, and respiratory problems among industry workers.
Longevity and Fragrance:
Let's shift our focus to the benefits of choosing local flowers. The cut flower industry traditionally prioritizes blooms that withstand transportation requirements, sacrificing scent and vibrancy. However, the slow flower movement encourages the cultivation and appreciation of American and locally sourced flowers. Local flowers are grown for fragrance, visual appeal, and longevity, resulting in bouquets that inspire and outlast traditional imported arrangements.
Biodiversity Benefits:
Planting flower patches and nurturing healthy soil contribute to biodiversity, positively impacting water systems and soil health in our local ecosystem. FlowerSmith Gardens, for instance, transformed a neglected gravel patch into a vibrant flower haven, adding nutrients to the soil and decreasing runoff. Imagine the transformative impact if every neglected city patch underwent a similar metamorphosis!
Supporting Pollinators:
Local flowers aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they play a crucial role in attracting and supporting pollinators, and contributing to ecosystem maintenance and biodiversity. This not only brings joy to observers but also creates a haven for pollinators, aiding their sustainability throughout habitats. Additionally, adding flowers for pollinators has been shown to increase fruit and vegetable yields, emphasizing their essential role in our agriculture system.
Natural Pest Control:
Beyond their beauty, local flowers act as a natural deterrent to pests while attracting predatory insects, creating a balanced and sustainable ecosystem right within your bouquet.
Choosing local flowers is more than just a choice; it's a commitment to a greener, healthier, and more vibrant world. Join us at FlowerSmith Gardens as we celebrate the beauty and sustainability that comes with every locally grown petal.
🌸 Ready to immerse yourself in the charm of our locally grown blooms? Our subscription program is the perfect way to experience the ever-changing beauty of FlowerSmith Gardens. You choose how many bouquets, and we ensure a delightful assortment makes its way to you throughout the growing season (April-September). During the off-season, indulge in our wreaths, dried flowers, and blooming bulbs, ensuring your home or office remains adorned with the enduring allure of local beauty.
Visit our website: www.flowersmithgardens.com.
Not in Boise? Look up members of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers to connect you with a great grower in your area! Local Flowers, Growers Near Me | Local Flowers
With bloom-filled regards,
Adele Smith, Owner
FlowerSmith Gardens 🌿💚 #LocalBlooms #slowflowers
References:
Khaoula Toumi, Laure Joly, Christiane Vleminckx and Bruno Schiffers, Risk Assessment of Florists Exposed to Pesticide Residues through Handling of Flowers and Preparing Bouquets Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14(5), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14050526
Mazzei, Patricia. "Roses Are Red, Violets Are Blue, Through Miami’s Airport Yours Probably Flew." The New York Times, 14 Feb. 2024.
Salisbury, A., Armitage, J., Bostock, H., Perry, J., Tatchell, M. and Thompson, K. (2015), EDITOR'S CHOICE: Enhancing gardens as habitats for flower-visiting aerial insects (pollinators): should we plant native or exotic species?. J Appl Ecol, 52: 1156-1164. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12499
Tschumi, M., Albrecht, M., Collatz, J., Dubsky, V., Entling, M.H., Najar-Rodriguez, A.J. and Jacot, K. (2016), Tailored flower strips promote natural enemy biodiversity and pest control in potato crops. J Appl Ecol, 53: 1169-1176. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12653
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