It might seem like all flowers are good for the Earth, but it turns out that like foods and energy sources, some flowers (and florists) are actually more sustainable than others. At Kittelberger Florist & Gifts, we work hard to stick to sustainable floristry practices while continuing to serve the Webster community with stunningly beautiful bouquets and designs composed of the freshest eco-friendly flowers available.

What Makes Sustainable Flowers So Eco-Friendly?

Flowers cultivated by growers who aren’t using sustainable practices are grown quickly and out of their natural seasons. These flowers require additional energy for artificial light sources and fertilizers that aren’t always safe for people or the environment. Sustainable flowers are grown more slowly and naturally.

5 Signs You Have Found a Sustainable Florist

1. Uses Recyclable Materials

A sustainable florist will always strive to use recyclable and reusable materials whenever it’s possible. They do their best to minimize waste, avoid using non-biodegradable florist’s foam, and wrap flowers in paper instead of plastic.

2. Sources Flowers Locally

Flowers will be sourced from local growers to minimize the shipping impact.

3. Plans Smart Delivery Routes

Sustainable florists design efficient delivery routes to minimize carbon emissions.

4. Lets No Flower Go to Waste

With a sustainable florist, no blossom goes to waste. We donate unused blooms to nursing homes and hospitals and compost all remaining plant matter.

5. Promotes Seasonal Flowers

In addition to being the freshest and most beautiful flowers you can find, seasonal flowers are also the most sustainable to grow.

Things You Can Do to Reduce Your Flowers’ Environmental Impact

Refill Your Vases and Containers

You can get more life out of your vases and other containers by reusing them. At Kittelberger Florist & Gifts, we’re always happy to refill vases, and we strongly encourage our high-volume commercial clients to do so, as well. If you’re hosting a large event, like a wedding, with multiple floral arrangements, we’re also welcome clients to return the surplus of vases they’ll be left with after.

Give Flowers a Second Life 

You can enjoy your floral arrangement, bouquet, corsage, or boutonniere for years to come by drying it. You can either press or hang your flowers to dry before displaying them in your home. If you’d prefer not to dry your flowers, then we recommend composting them to be used as fertilizer. All plant material is fully compostable. Drop them in your own compost bin or donate them to a community garden.

Shop with a Local Florist

One of the most important things you can do to ensure you make a sustainable flower purchase is to shop locally. Choosing a local florist minimizes the impact of flower delivery and also ensures you receive a bouquet of the freshest, most beautiful flowers available from a florist you can trust.

To learn more about the steps toward sustainability Kittelberger Florist & Gifts is taking, we welcome you to call or stop by our flower shop.