YOUR GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE VALENTINES DAY FLOWERS (plastic free & ethically sourced)

The rose has been a classic symbol of romance and love, they’re always in high demand, especially around Valentine’s Day. According to the Society of American Florists, 198 million roses were produced for the Valentines day season. Whether you’re looking to gift some roses, flowers, or plants in general- this is the blog post you’ll want to read, especially if you’re wanting to purchase sustainable flowers for valentines day.

All of the flower services mentioned below wrap their flowers in paper/burlap (or nothing), are ethically sourced, and then shipped in a recyclable box to your recipient. These services can be used for Galentines, yourself, your significant other or just cause you feel like getting some flowers.

Since red roses are the most popular gift, I have listed the companies from lowest to highest price based on their red roses- but I encourage you to look into all of them to see what kind of plant and flower varieties you would like best, as they all have different flower designs and vases.

*4/5 of these only deliver in the USA. *

1. ProFlowers: (worldwide):

Dedicated to partnering only with flower farms that provide safe and ethical working environments, ProFlowers is passionate about the fair and ethical treatment of farm workers and also donates to Fundacion Fernanco Borrero, a non-profit organization founded by flower growers.

ProFlowers connects you with local florists in your area and delivers internationally. Packaged and shipped in a box and can be delivered to your recipient on Feb 14. Flower prices $40-130, and the best price I saw for roses (24 roses for $55).

2. Farmgirl Flowers (US only):

Offers fewer, but better options. Farmgirl picks the flowers for you so they can minimize their waste and environmental impact, source flowers ethically, and offer higher quality arrangements for similar price points as the other guys. Should try to order sooner rather than later- bouquets either come in a vase or wrapped in recycled coffee filters (burlap). Flower prices ranging from $59-250 ($65 for 20 red roses + vase).

You can listen to the founder of Farmgirl Flowers on Conscious Chatter’s Podcast, she talks all about why she created Farmgirl Flowers, how complicated the supply chain is behind the floral industry, and the impact it has on farmers, and the environment – especially when it comes to waste.

3. The Bouqs Company: (US only)

Partners with eco-friendly farms that minimize waste, recycle water, and use sustainable growing practices.  This farm direct, transparent sourcing means they say cut out all those middlemen and to ensure longer lasting flowers that are beautifully designed by your local Artisan florists. Flowers wrapped in paper and delivered in a box (can be delivered same day); flower prices ranging from $44-90 (24 red roses for $69).

They even have an adorable flower package with red roses that are paired with a cute date night card game called “We’re Not Really Strangers” ($89- check it out here).

4. Bloomsy Box: (US only)

Partners with sustainable farms (Rainforest Alliance Certified Farms) around the globe to provide you with the most beautiful and unique blooms around. Each stem they ship is hand-picked and cut 2-4 days before you receive them, ensuring quality and freshness. Many rose selections, must order before 2/9 to make it before Valentines Day. Flower prices ranging from $35-80 (24 red roses for $75).

5. Urban Stems: (US only)

This company works directly with Rainforest Alliance Certified farms to ensure that what you receive or send is responsibly and sustainably sourced. Uniquely designed flower bouquets with next day delivery (as long as its placed before 2pm the day before) and offers same day for NYC and DC. More plant and flower variety, prices ranging from $45-$155 ($85 for red roses).

Get $15 off here.

BUYING LOCAL:

Databases/directories-

Slow Flowers: An online directory to connect buyers with florists, shops and studios who design with only American-grown flowers (now Canada too). A great tool for anyone who wants to support local US farmers and buy homegrown blooms!

Local Harvest: If you want to buy flowers in person, Local Harvest is a database that shows you all the farmer’s markets near you. The site connects directly with local growers and asks all the questions about their farming practices.

PITTSBURGH LOCAL:

The Flower Market: Pittsburgh’s Local Florist Since 1983 that is 100% florist designed and hand delivered. Offers next day delivery and same day delivery/ pick up if located in the Pittsburgh area. Flower prices ranging from $44-320 (24 red roses + baby breath $132).

 

These are all great alternatives to plastic wrapped flowers that were not hard to find, however I hope this list makes it easier for your Valentine’s Day needs. Make sure to look up local flower shops and services near you! 

1 thought on “YOUR GUIDE TO SUSTAINABLE VALENTINES DAY FLOWERS (plastic free & ethically sourced)

Comments are closed.