There’s no denying the joy of receiving–or gifting–a lovely bouquet of flowers. But beauty should never come at the expense of the planet. The floral industry can have a hidden environmental impact: long-distance shipping, pesticide-heavy growing practices and excess plastic packaging. It doesn’t have to be that way. More and more people are beginning to embrace sustainability, and floristry is no different.
You can choose flowers that are grown with care, harvested responsibly, and designed to be as kind as they are stunning in a vase. Whether you’re picking up a bouquet for a loved one or planning centerpieces for a party, you can make small, mindful choices that have a big impact. Here are six flowers that aren’t just pretty – they’re sustainable too.
CORNFLOWERS
Cornflowers, with their vibrant blue hue and soft petals, bring a playful elegance to any bouquet. These summer blooms typically require minimal intervention – meaning, fewer pesticides and less water. Because they’re often grown locally, cornflowers don’t rack up the travel miles, making them a solid choice for floral lovers. Not only that, they also attract pollinators, contributing to healthy ecosystems.
SUNFLOWERS
It’s hard not to smile at a sunflower. They’re bright, sunny, simply radiating warmth and joy – and luckily, they’re one of the most environmentally friendly flowers you can buy. Sunflowers are frequently grown locally with less synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, making them an easy choice for the eco-conscious buyer. Their durability and long lifespan also mean replacements are less frequently needed.
COSMOS
Their delicate whimsy will be able to satisfy any romantic at heart. But don’t let their soft appearance fool you – they’re surprisingly tough. Able to flourish and self-seed with minimal chemical input, these drought-tolerant blooms are a favorite for local growers.
BLACK-EYED SUSANS
Black-eyed Susans, the sunny darlings of summer, are native to much of North America, meaning they’re adapted to local climates and need less water and fertilizer to survive. This trait, along with their ability to support pollinators, makes them one of the most eco-friendly picks you can make this season.
LAVENDER
Both fragrant and stunning, lavender looks good and smells good. From fresh bouquets to dried arrangements, sachets, and bath products, the scent of lavender has serious staying power. Even better? It’s long-blooming, capable of growing even in dry conditions, and is naturally resistant to pests.
GOLDENROD
Goldenrod brings warm, sun-soaked energy into any arrangement. Often mistaken for a weed, this native wildflower actually supports pollinators like bees and butterflies. Native to North America, it grows abundantly and is usually cultivated in its natural state, not requiring any chemical interference.
As much as possible, buy local and seasonal – this supports local growers and reduces carbon emissions. Look for flowers from farms that use organic or low-impact farming practices. If you’re not sure, ask your florist where their flowers come from. Sustainable beauty starts with informed choices!
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH ECO-FRIENDLY BLOOMS
Let your love for the planet blossom by supporting eco-friendly and sustainable flower shops. At Orchid Republic Floral Boutique, we're committed to making an effort to be a sustainable flower business. Celebrate Earth Day with blooms that love the planet as much as you do.
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