Before I entered the world of floristry, I’d order flowers as gifts without really thinking about where the flowers were sourced from. It just wasn’t something that went through my mind, for whatever reason!
It wasn’t until I made my first few trips to the flower markets that I did wonder. I began researching and was surprised to find how many flowers are imported, and what is involved in that process.
As I considered the information, it felt like a very natural, easy decision to avoid imports and choose local. It didn’t at all feel like a sacrifice or compromise - rather it felt right and exciting.
I am very blessed to be able to source flowers from several local growers who are not only passionate about growing flowers, but about caring for the earth; using organic and sustainable farming practices. I absolutely love knowing exactly where all my flowers have come from, and knowing the people who grew them! I think it makes each creation that much more unique.
Organically-grown flowers at Gooseberry Hill Farm in Meadows - a favourite supplier!
Following are some of the main factors informing my decision to go local:
There are really serious ethical considerations to think about when buying imported flowers. Many come from farms with shocking working conditions and wages...ie workers being exposed to dangerous chemicals with no protection (causing negative effects on health and fertility), long working hours, abuse, exploitation and slave labour. No flower will ever be worth that in my books.
Imported flowers are heavily sprayed/fumigated both in their origin country (often with chemicals banned in Australia) and when they arrive, up to 3 times before they reach the shelves. This means a shorter vase life and a product that’s really not ideal to be touching, smelling, having in your home etc.
The carbon footprint as a result of the refrigeration and overseas transportation of flowers is huge and worth considering.
There’s a lot of non-compliance with regulations around imported flowers...they pose a bio-security risk, potentially bringing in unwanted pests that can and have had huge damage in our environment.
Many Australian flower growers have had to close business because of the impact imports have had on the industry. Valentine’s Day 2018 alone saw more than 10.5 million roses imported!
There’s a lot more to the story, but I think these are some of the big factors to consider, and some of what has shaped my personal ethos. I think there can still be a place for importing flowers, when it’s done ethically (ie Fair Trade flowers).
No judgment to those who love the variety available when buying from all over. I just absolutely love getting to appreciate the beauty of each season, having a relationship with the growers, and protecting this beautiful world we live in.
Every arrangement bursting with seasonal goodness!