Every year, millions of flower bouquets are given for Valentine’s Day. While this gesture is romantic, its environmental impact is far from it. The cultivation and transportation of cut flowers create a massive ecological footprint. This year, why not choose a more sustainable and equally symbolic alternative: a plant?

A Bit of History: Why Do We Give Flowers on Valentine’s Day?

The origins of Valentine’s Day date back to Antiquity, with the Lupercalia, a Roman pagan festival celebrating fertility. It wasn’t until the 14th century that February 14th became associated with lovers, largely thanks to the writings of English poet Geoffrey Chaucer. The tradition of giving flowers developed over the centuries, with red roses quickly becoming the emblem of passion and romance. But what if you gifted a red plant instead? A gesture just as symbolic but much more sustainable!

The Hidden Impact of Flower Bouquets

Cut flowers are beautiful, but they have a very short lifespan and a significant environmental impact.

A Resource-Intensive Production

The cultivation of roses, highly in demand for Valentine’s Day, requires approximately 9 liters of water per flower. When multiplied by the millions of bouquets sold within a few days, the water waste is enormous.

Most flowers sold in Europe and Asia come from South America or Africa, requiring air transport and refrigeration, which significantly increases their carbon footprint.

Overconsumption for a Fleeting Gift

Cut flowers wilt within days and often end up in the trash before the end of the month.

To extend their freshness, they are treated with chemical preservatives that can be harmful to both the environment and health.

Giving a Plant: A Symbol of Lasting Love

Unlike cut flowers, a plant continues to grow and thrive over time. It becomes a true symbol of enduring love, a daily reminder of the care and attention given to it.

An Eco-Friendly Git

✔️ Plants live for years, reducing waste.
✔️ They purify the air and bring a touch of nature indoors.
✔️ They require less maintenance than a bouquet (no need to change water every day).

❤️ This year at Botani Bloom, we have selected two elegant red plants, perfect for expressing love, available at 10% off for Valentine’s Day:

Simone - Red Fittonia: With its vibrant red veins, it symbolizes energy and passion.

Monica - Aglaonema Red Star: Its red and green hues reflect harmony and deep affection.

How to Care for Your Plant for a Love That Lasts

Love, like a plant, flourishes with care and attention. Here are some tips for taking care of the stars of our Valentine’s Day collection:

Red Fittonia (Simone) – A Striking Foliage

• Light: Prefers indirect light. Too much sun can burn its leaves.
• Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering, which can cause yellowing.
• Humidity: Thrives in a humid environment. Mist its leaves occasionally.
• Pet-friendly? Yes, Fittonia is safe for pets.

Aglaonema Red Star (Monica) – Elegance and Resilience

• Light: Tolerates low light but prefers indirect light to enhance its red tones.
• Watering: Water moderately, allowing the topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Temperature: Prefers room temperature and should be kept away from cold drafts.
• Pet-friendly? No, this plant is toxic to animals if ingested.