At the heart of floral design lies a delicate balance between nature's beauty and our responsibility to care for the earth. In today’s world, sustainability isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. As floral designers, we have the privilege of working with nature’s finest materials, and it’s up to us to do so in a way that respects both the environment and the communities around us.
One of the most impactful ways to embrace sustainability is by sourcing locally grown, in-season blooms from organic farms. This has been dubbed the "Slow Flower movement" by Debra Prinzing. Debra aspires to reclaim the act of flower growing, recognizing it as a relevant and respected branch of domestic agriculture. These flower growers are usually small family owned farms that are committed to not using harmful chemicals or pesticides, ensuring that the flowers are as pure as they are beautiful.
Supporting local growers not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with importing flowers but also bolsters the local economy, fostering stronger, more resilient communities. I have had the great pleasure of being able to work with and become great friends of Debbie Bosworth from Dandelion House, who has been a champion of local flowers and the slow flower movement before it was the "cool thing to do." Debbie grows a gorgeous mix of both perennials and annuals on her property - from hydrangeas to yarrow but the stars are her dahlias. I am always filled with amazement when I visit her garden. When Debbie needs to outsource her product she sources from local growers and wholesalers in our community, we both agree local is always so much fresher and just more beautiful!
Just a small snippet of what Debbie's gorgeous + non toxic gardens look like in full bloom
Another key step in reducing waste in floral design is rethinking the tools we use. For years, floral foam,has been a staple in the industry. However, it is a toxic, non-biodegradable product that releases harmful microplastics into the environment. That’s why I've made the conscious choice to never use floral foam in my work. Instead, we use sustainable alternatives such as chicken wire, flower frogs, and oshun pouches. These methods not only achieve the same stunning results but are reusable, eco-friendly, and safe for the planet.
My commitment to zero waste doesn’t end with design. Once our floral installations have lived out their beauty, we try to compost all spent flowers. This process returns nutrients to the soil, creating a beautiful cycle of life and reducing landfill waste. Even trimmings and stems are repurposed or composted, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
By prioritizing sustainability in every aspect of our design process—from farm to vase to compost—we are crafting more than just beautiful arrangements. We are cultivating a future where beauty and responsibility bloom together.