June is California Cut Flower month according to the California Cut Flower Commission.

“In 2015, the Legislature passed a resolution declaring June “California Grown Flowers Month,” recognizing the economic and cultural impact of California’s flower and greens farmers. To help spread this important recognition, the California Cut Flower Commission (CCFC) will be working with farmers and retailers throughout the state on in-store promotion programs to help consumers identify and celebrate our homegrown blooms all month long!”

If you have kept up with all the ways corona virus hurt the agricultural industry, you would be familiar with the cut flower industry’s struggle during the pandemic. With widespread panic and fear of the unknown, consumers found comfort in non-perishable, non-luxury items when shopping. This meant leaving beautiful, colorful bouquets wilting in stores, or being donated to nursing homes because demand has dropped. California Cut Flower month couldn’t have come at a better time, and you can participate!

“California is America’s leading producer of high-quality cut flowers and greens – supplying over 75 percent of all domestically grown cut flowers in the United States.” According to the CCFC.

The CCFC states that “when you see the blue and gold CA Grown license plate logo, you know the flowers and blooms you’ve selected were grown right here in the Golden State by a local flower farmer. This logo helps our farms differentiate their flowers in the marketplace and appeals to consumers looking for homegrown blooms!”

The CCFC lists both a farmer and flower directory that are part of its program and is seeking retailers to participate in the merchandising and promotion for the month of June. Retailers who have participated in the past include : Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, Pavilions, Bristol Farms, Gelson’s Markets, Bristol Farms and Lazy Acres Natural Market.

This comes at a difficult time, but seemingly appropriate. Studies show that fresh cut flowers have a positive effect on mental health, and in a time when people are isolating, feeling lowly, or otherwise down, helping to support the local and state cut flower industry and make people smile is a positive aspect in all the darkness.

Some facts about the California cut flower industry from California Grown:

• California is home to more than 250 flower farms.
• California produces more than 75 percent of the cut flowers that are grown in the United States.
• California’s flower farms have a $10.3 billion economic impact in California and the United States. For every dollar a California farmer earns, 92 cents goes right back into the local economy.
• California cut flowers meet the strictest growing standards in the world.
• Nationwide, consumers purchase an estimated $17 billion of floral items annually.

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Tips for arranging your flowers from California Grown:

1. Buy California grown flowers. When you buy California grown flowers, they were probably in the field 24-48 hours ago. This helps ensure maximum freshness and longer enjoyment.
2. Remove leaves. Discard leaves that will be submerged in water. This will decrease bacteria buildup and lead to a longer-lasting bouquet.
3. Fill vase with cold water. Cold water slows down blossoming. You can even add ice cubes to your vase water for extra coolness.
4. Cut your fresh flower stems to desired length. It’s best to cut them at a 45 degree angle to allow more water to be soaked up.
5. Use flower food and change vase water often. Flower food is a must in keeping your flowers fresh, as is changing the vase water every 2-4 days.
6. Design your arrangement. Large and dark flowers should be close to the base of the design, and small and light-colored flowers look best on the outer edge.