By choosing to send Australian native flowers or wildflowers instead of commercially grown flowers can have several benefits. Here are some reasons why:
- Environmental impact: Commercial flower production requires large amounts of water to irrigate the crops, especially in areas with low rainfall. This can strain local water resources and contribute to water scarcity. Moreover, any commercial flower growers use pesticides and fertilizers to enhance crop yields and protect against pests and diseases. These chemicals can contaminate the soil, water, and air, harming wildlife, and human health. The production of commercial flowers often involves energy-intensive practices, such as heating greenhouses, lighting, and transportation. This can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Also, the transportation and packaging of commercially grown flowers can generate a significant amount of waste and pollution, such as plastic wrapping, foam, and cardboard. These materials often end up in landfills, where they contribute to environmental degradation.
- Unique beauty: Australian native or wildflowers often have a unique and distinctive beauty, which can be attributed to their natural adaptations to the local ecosystem that cannot be replicated by commercially grown flowers. They are adapted to the country’s harsh climate and diverse landscapes, which has resulted in a wide range of floral species with distinctive features. They may have unusual shapes, colours, or textures that reflect the natural environment and local culture.
- Supporting local farmers: When buying Australian native or wildflowers, you are supporting local farmers or wildflower harvesters. This helps stimulate the local economy and create jobs in rural areas.
- Promoting biodiversity: Many native plant species are under threat due to habitat loss and climate change. Commercial flower production often involves replacing natural ecosystems with monoculture flower fields which lead to the loss of biodiversity and the displacement of native plants and wildlife. Using Australian native or wildflowers in floral arrangements can help raise awareness and support for their protection and promote biodiversity in the area.
- Ethical considerations: Commercially grown flowers are often produced using intensive farming practices that can have negative social and ethical impacts, such as exploiting labour, unsafe working conditions, and unfair wages. When buying Australian native or wildflowers, it’s important to choose suppliers who are committed to sustainable and ethical practices. Look for suppliers who source their flowers from reputable growers or wildflower harvesters and who prioritize environmental sustainability and fair labour practices. Choosing to send Australian native or wildflowers instead supports sustainable and ethical farming practices.
Overall, sending Australian native or wildflowers can be a more environmentally friendly, socially responsible, and visually appealing choice compared to commercially grown flowers. They offer unique beauty, support local communities, and promote biodiversity, while also aligning with ethical and sustainable values.
