The Hidden Benefits of Buying Local Flowers - American Grown Month
Do you know that since 2017, Congress has recognized July as an annual celebration of American Grown Flowers and Foliage Month? Imagine walking into a bustling farmer's market on a sunny Saturday morning, surrounded by vibrant blooms in every color of the rainbow. The scent of fresh flowers fills the air as local vendors proudly display their handpicked bouquets. Doesn’t that sound amazing? So why make it available one or two days a week? Why not every day?
This article will explore the hidden advantages of buying local flowers from your local farmers' market and your local retail florist who carries local flowers. From supporting small businesses to reducing your carbon footprint, we will search into the positive impact that purchasing local blooms can have. Ultimately, you'll understand how this simple choice can brighten your home and contribute to a more sustainable future.
This pictures is of sunflowers grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. Sunflower Pro-Cut Gold Lite.
What if I told you that choosing these local flowers, AmericanGrown, over imported ones could have far-reaching benefits for your community and the environment? And they are closer than you think. Here in sunny Phoenix, AZ, some small local farms and gardeners can grow fresh-cut flowers daily or weekly. The consumer can find the same colorful blooms at your local florist if their florist also buys locally.
This pictures is of ranunculus grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. These corms were planted early Spring but you can also plant in Fall.
I admit that not all florists are willing to work with seasonal flowers, but what if they incorporate a certain percentage of locally grown flowers in their designs from an imported sold by your local wholesaler? I put it to the test. I grew my sunflowers and filler statice for this past Mother’s Day 2024 holiday. And it was great! I added some of my flowers to all the arrangements, and there was no complaint. It was challenging, but it was possible. It just takes a slight learning curve from the florist about what your farmers/gardeners are growing seasonally. The benefits outweigh the effects of reducing your carbon footprint one stem, one bloom at a time.
This pictures is of sunflowers grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. Sunflower Pro-Cut Orange.
Supporting Small Businesses
Choosing a local florist who supports your community by buying from your local farmer by a small percentage does matter. Purchasing locally grown blooms can also be a key to longer-lasting, fresher flowers. Learn how purchasing from nearby flower farms can ensure your floral arrangements stay vibrant and beautiful and last long.
This pictures is of sunflowers grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. Sunflower Pro-Cut White.
Reducing Carbon Footprint
Choosing local flowers supports your community and plays a crucial role in reducing your carbon footprint. You're positively impacting the environment by opting for blooms that haven't traveled thousands of miles to reach you. Local flowers require less transportation, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. This simple choice can significantly decrease carbon emissions, contributing to a healthier planet for future generations. This focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness extends beyond just reducing carbon emissions. By supporting local flower farmers, you also promote biodiversity in your area. Every small change counts.
This pictures is of ranunculus grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. These corms were planted early Spring but you can also plant in Fall.
Promoting Biodiversity
By supporting local flower farmers, you also promote biodiversity in your area. Local flower farms often cultivate a variety of plant species, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of pollinators and wildlife. This rich biodiversity helps maintain a healthy environment and encourages the growth of native plants. This interconnected web of life fosters a more resilient and sustainable ecosystem. Enhancing community connections can further strengthen the benefits of buying local flowers.
This pictures is of Bells of Ireland grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. Bells of Ireland. These were Fall seeded.
Enhancing Community Connections
When you choose to buy local flowers, you're not just supporting the environment and regional economy. You're also enhancing community connections in a meaningful way. By purchasing flowers from nearby farms, you're directly engaging with your local community and fostering relationships with those who work hard to cultivate and provide these beautiful blooms. This sense of connection can create a deeper appreciation for the individuals and families behind the flowers, strengthening the bond within your community. As you enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant scents of locally grown flowers, remember that your purchase is not just a transaction but a contribution to the interconnected fabric of your community. By enhancing these community connections, the benefits of buying local flowers can ripple out and create a more vibrant and united community for everyone to enjoy.
This pictures are Zinnias Benary’s Giant Scarlet Red grown in Blooming Canyon garden. Here here in Phoenix, AZ 9B Zone. Heat loving blooming plant.
In choosing to buy local flowers, you are not just making a simple purchase - you are making a statement. By supporting small businesses, reducing your carbon footprint, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing community connections, you are contributing to a more sustainable and interconnected world. So, next time you need blooms in the Phoenix and surrounding area, remember that Blooming Canyon knows the hidden benefits of buying local flowers, and we will be incorporating local blooms into our designs by making a conscious choice beyond beauty. As the saying goes, "In a world where you can be anything, be kind to your planet and community."
Please check out Arizona Flower Collective best flowers from local farmers in AZ!