It’s all about the love…. flowers!

It’s true. Roses are still the most popular gift for a celebration about love and, for traditionalists, red roses still reign supreme on Valentine’s Day.

Chairman of New Zealand Flower Growers, David Blewden, says demand for red roses on Valentine’s Day always exceeds the capacity of New Zealand flower growers to deliver.

“This is a real shame,” he says, “because New Zealand grown roses are far superior. They haven’t had to travel far and they haven’t been drenched with pesticide before they’re ready for sale. Traditionalists who are concerned about the quality and vase life of their gift should already be talking to their florists about where their roses are coming from.”

Auckland florist, Iain Stephens, knows precisely where his roses come from and assures his customers that the red roses he delivers have been grown in New Zealand. He says this is the best possible start to what can be a very stressful day for florists.

“In the heat and humidity of summer, we have to work exceptionally hard to control the environment for our flowers in transit. It’s a good idea to ask for flowers to be delivered in vases with enough water to keep flowers well hydrated and protected.”

This kind of consideration on the part of florists must be good news for New Zealand flower growers who start preparing for Valentine’s Day up to six months before the big day. During these months growers are planting, pruning and monitoring conditions so they are delivering enough top quality flowers to market.

However David Blewden says Valentine’s Day is not just about roses. “Mixed bouquets of fresh, locally grown, beautifully presented flowers are also growing in popularity. Hydrangeas, dahlias, gerberas, lilies and lisianthus are popular additions to Valentine’s Day bouquets and posies.”

Iain Stephens agrees. “In part the trend to mixed bouquets with one or two roses included is a sign of the times. Red is still a Valentine’s Day colour, but a single red rose alone or in a mixed bouquet sends the same message.”

And – as love fills the air this week, women dreaming about Valentine’s Day flowers might consider one more thing - it’s not just all about you. Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to show the special man in your life just how much you care. Iain Stephens notes that around 20 per cent of his clientele are women purchasing for the men in their life.

Interestingly, males are increasingly happy to be on the (flower) receiving end. A recent survey revealed that nearly 70% of men would like to receive flowers, especially on Valentine’s Day.

Overall, it appears men are more attracted to clean-cut, bold flowers in bright yellows, blues and reds (definitely not pretty pinks). Tropical flowers like orchids are a good bet, or the more masculine, funky anthurium and heliconia.

ENDS

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