Less cello

There is a growing trend in floristry that has been circulating for some time but appears to be gaining increasing momentum recently. While I appreciate the creativity behind it, it is one that I personally find difficult to fully support.

As an industry, I believe we should be doing everything we can to reduce our carbon footprint and minimise single-use plastic waste. This is, of course, a personal perspective, and many florists are exploring different ways to move toward more sustainable practices. While I still use cellophane wrapping in some cases, I make a conscious effort to source products that are ethically produced and, wherever possible, made from recycled materials. I also admire many florists who have taken the step of eliminating cellophane wrapping altogether. Although single-use plastics and foam bases are still often used in certain arrangements, such as funeral tributes, even incremental changes can contribute to meaningful progress over time.

For this reason, the recent trend toward heavily wrapped hand-tied bouquets is one I find challenging from a sustainability standpoint. I understand the appeal — the presentation can look beautiful and gift-like, and it can enhance the overall experience for the recipient. However, it also raises questions for me about the balance between presentation and environmental impact.

From my perspective, I would often prefer to see more of the value placed in the flowers themselves — something that can be enjoyed for weeks and eventually composted — rather than in -additional layers of wrapping that may only be used briefly before being discarded. It’s a conversation worth having as our industry continues to evolve and consider how best to balance aesthetics, customer expectations, and environmental responsibility.

 Let me know what you think.