Brighten someone’s day, say “happy birthday”, or “congratulations” with beautiful flowers from your local market! For centuries, gardeners have brought cut flowers indoors where their natural beauty and pleasant aroma delight the senses.
Local nurseries have gorgeous blooms, fragrant and lively with vibrant colors and shapes. Many of the flowers you see at the farmers’ market are grown in Watsonville and Half Moon Bay because of the sunny and cool coastal climate.
Buying local flowers means you're getting fresher flowers that have just been picked and will last longer once you get them home. They also have the added perk of a smaller carbon footprint, mainly delivered to markets within 100 miles.
The Lowdown
Season
Fall
Summer
Winter
Spring
Select
Look for flowers that have no “droop” to them. When possible, purchase bouquets with buds that are just beginning to open or those with tight centers. You’ll be able to watch them open as the days pass.
Store
Cut off at least 1/2 inch of the stem and cut at an angle, allowing for more absorption area. Hold stems under water while you cut them. Place the bouquet in water as soon as possible. When exposed to air for even a short time, the cut ends of the stems will dry and seal off, preventing water absorption.
