Exploring the beauty and benefit of the British flower movement

 

The movement towards a more sustainable floristry industry is gaining momentum, and across the UK the network of artisan flower farmers is growing.

With many consumers and suppliers growing ever more conscious of our impact on our planet, reducing the consumption of imported blooms in favour of British is a great way to tread a little lighter on our natural world.

In this feature I delve deeper into the benefits of using British and share some images of a favourite Sussex cutting garden.

So, where do flowers come from if not the UK?

Well, majority of the flowers you see for sale and in event work are imported and most commonly distributed via the international flower market based in Holland. Whilst this allows for blooms all year round, abundant quantities and a huge variety to choose from, they do come with an increased carbon footprint as can travel many many miles to get to you. Commercial flower farming can also entail heavy chemical and pesticide use and a lot of plastic packaging. Therefore if we can rely on this source less heavily its a step in a kinder direction. The demand for British does currently exceed supply so I am not yet able to complete every job entirely with just locally grown but I will always strive to support it where I can.

a lady bird on sussex grown wrinkle cress

Native wildlife and insects love it too..

and if you’ve ever grown blooms yourself or observed the flower beds in green spaces you’ll know it won’t be long before you spot a happy insect. It was a hive of activity at Maria’s cutting garden with many plump and pollen drunk bees deep in the blooms and even spotted some precious ladybirds, a growers favourite form of natural pest control.

So, whats the benefit of choosing a florist that supports British for your wedding or event?

Well it always feels good to know you are supporting something you care about right? So if the environment is a core one for you then you’ll be aiding the movement for a kinder industry. Furthermore you are more likely to receive unusual and beautifully delicate varieties that don’t tend to make it to the international market. Lastly incorporating truly seasonal blooms will create harmony with the natural environment and stamp the moment in time of your celebration. For example cosmos one of the varieties featured above is specific to the summer months, so will always remind you of your special day when you see it in the same season in the years to come.

Do I help you learn what British flowers are in season for your wedding or event?

Absolutely! In fact its one of the things we will discuss when we have our consultation as I think it’s always important to be realistic about what is available and at it’s best quality at the time of your event. You will also receive a little visual and written guide on some seasonal favourites when I send you your design concept.

Of course with British especially there can be no guarantees as there are a whole host of variables, most harsh being the ever changing weather, but place your trust in your florist, they want to create beautiful work and they will source the best ingredients they can to suit your brief.

Wish to talk wedding and event florals with me further? Drop your enquiry via the link below.

A big Thank you to Maria of Tangle and Wild for all your incredible hard work, exquisite stems and for allowing me into your beautiful growing space with my camera.

 
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