Big bouquets of red roses and delicious boxes of chocolates are lovely to receive on Valentines Day (if that’s what you like) but are they sustainable? Did you know that in 2023, New Zealand imported $2.34M of cut flowers, mainly from India, Columbia and Bolivia.
These imported flowers (think stunning bouquets of big red roses) are highly toxic as they have been fumigated twice. Once prior to departure and then again when they arrive into NZ by being dipped in round up for 20 minutes, and then fumigated, before being sold.
When you last ordered a beautiful bouquet of flowers, did you ask the florist whether the flowers were imported or locally grown? If not, you should.
Supporting NZ growers is not only vital for ensuring we reduce the number of systemic poisons into our environment, it also strengthens our local economy, reduces emissions and fosters sustainable agricultural practices.
Fresh imported cut flowers are about 5-6 days old by the time they reach the florist compared to 2 days from local NZ growers. Their lifespan is shortened, having been important, whereas locally grown cut flowers will last much longer.
However, there is an alternative to fresh cut flowers that will last much longer than a week. Potted flowers are more eco-friendly, last for years as opposed to weeks, are sustainable, improve air quality, reduce stress and can trigger memories every time they admired.
So instead of rushing to order your fresh bouquet of flowers (which are priced higher for Valentines Day due to demand), spend time walking through your local garden center and choose a gift that will remain in their hearts forever.
And don’t forget to pair the potted plant with a box of delicious NZ made, ethically sourced quality chocolates made using coverture chocolate.
Here are all the brands in NZ that produce quality chocolate, where some are made using ethical and sustainable sources. We have included many of these brands in our gift boxes over the years and can personally attest to their deliciousness.
