Flowers make great sustainable gifts
I can’t express how much I have enjoyed giving flowers and plants to people I know the last couple years. Before, I would have only thought to give them on big “occasions,” such as a new baby, a wedding, or a get-well. I have now begun to think outside the box and give them for all sorts of reasons.
There’s: “Thanks for keeping an eye on my pet” and “I know you’ve had a rough time lately,” as well as “Congratulations, how exciting!” and “It’s great to catch up with you again!” and everything else. Now, when I am on my way to see someone, I think of how I can brighten his or her day with flowers, even if it’s just a simply wrapped bedding plant or a single elegant lily stem with a ribbon.
One thing I love about this new way of thinking is that it’s a sustainable gift alternative compared to many other options. Your gift recipient can use the basket, vase or pot again, and the plant itself can be transplanted or composted when it has outgrown or outlived its container life. Since I have been trying to get away from disposable items and items with excess packaging when choosing gifts, flowers and plants are a gift that aligns well with this new focus in my life.
Another great aspect is that because we live in Oregon, where so many nurseries are right around the corner, we can support local business on two levels with our floral purchases: the growers who supplied the product, as well as your locally owned Market of Choice, where they are sold. Not every state can grow plants and flowers like we do. It’s something I appreciate about our state, especially as I get to know more of the vendors who supply my flowers and plants. I want to see them thrive, just as they have helped my Market and community thrive!
Dive into the sustainable loop this summer with a gift of flowers. You’ll leave a great impression with a friend or loved one and a smaller footprint on the Earth! It’s a win-win.