Reason #15: Growing locally matters.

8 Reasons Locally Grown Flowers Matter: A Personal Reflection 

As a passionate flower farmer, I want to share with you the reasons why I believe locally grown flowers matter deeply—not just for me, but for our entire community. My passion for local growth is one of the reasons I want to be a flower farmer. Here are some compelling reasons that drive my commitment to cultivating flowers right here at our micro-farm. 

1. The Best Flowers Can’t Be Shipped 

There’s something magical about a flower that has been freshly picked at its peak. Many of the best varieties, with their vibrant colors and unique fragrances, simply cannot withstand the rigors of transportation. Delicate flowers that don’t survive shipping include dahlias, zinnias, and cosmos. And guess what? These are three of the flower types we are growing in abundance. So, if you want these unique and gorgeous flowers in your home? A local flower grower is your only option. (Or growing them yourself, of course!)      

Just think about it: those daffodils from the Netherlands and lilies from Ecuador must travel very far to get to your grocery store or florist before they finally land in your hands. But our flowers? They're in your hands within 24 hours of being picked. When you buy local, you’re getting the cream of the crop—flowers that are at their freshest and most beautiful. 

2. Freshness You Can See and Smell 

When you choose locally grown flowers, you’re opting for freshness that you can count on. Flowers that were picked just hours or days before they reach your hands will not only last longer but also provide a richer, more joyful sensory experience. There's nothing quite like the exhilarating scent of a flower that was just harvested! 

3. Seasonal Beauty 

Local flowers reflect the seasons. By purchasing blooms grown right in your area, you’re supporting the vibrant rhythm of nature. You get to enjoy flowers that are in harmony with the blooms of the moment, celebrating each season’s beauty and character. 

4. A Commitment to Organic and Sustainable Practices 

I take pride in growing flowers organically, without the use of harmful chemicals. Local farming allows me to cultivate flowers in a way that’s kind to the environment and safe for you. You can feel good about filling your home with flowers grown with care for the planet. 

5. Ethical Considerations and Labor Practices  

Many flowers found in mainstream markets are imported from countries where labor practices can be questionable. Often, workers face unsafe working conditions, long hours, and inadequate pay. By choosing locally grown flowers, you’re supporting ethical farming practices that prioritize fair treatment and safety for workers. This choice contributes to a system that respects the land and the individuals working it, ensuring that your purchases reflect your values. 

6. Supporting Your Community 

When you purchase local flowers, you’re not just choosing quality; you’re investing in your community. Every bouquet you buy supports local growers and contributes to the local economy. It fosters a sense of connection to the land you live on and the people who work tirelessly to nurture it. 

7. Uniqueness and Character 

Freshly picked, locally grown flowers are often more diverse and unique than commercial blooms. Each bouquet has its own personality, reflecting the local landscape and the farmer's touch. Arranged naturally, these flowers showcase the beautiful forms and colors found in nature rather than being stick-straight and uniform. 

8. Connection to the Source 

A profound joy comes from knowing where your flowers come from. When you buy locally, you’re forming a connection to the farm and the farmer who nurtured them. This relationship enriches your experience of giving and receiving flowers, making them all the more special.   

While these eight reasons highlight my current reflections on why locally grown flowers matter in general, there are a literal 99 more reasons why I personally want to be a flower farmer. Subscribe to my bimonthly newsletter for more general musings on my humble micro-farming beginnings, insights into local flowers, and inspirations from nature. Or follow along on social media to see my flowers grow!    

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Wait, there are 100 reasons you want to be a flower farmer?! Why, yes. Yes there are. And you can read the full explanation and reason #1 here.