8 Benefits of Having Plants and Flowers Near You

Plants and fresh flowers not only look good in any shelf or corner; have you ever wondered what are some benefits of having them in your home?

Here is a list of 8 benefits of having plants and flowers near you:

1) Plants Provide a Natural Fragrance

It's the most basic benefit of all, as well as by which many flowers and plants are distinguished. When we want to give our home or work a very pleasant aroma, an easy and beautiful way to do this is to use flowers.

It is very important to take into account that flowers' scent is natural, therefore better, since deodorizers sold in stores may contain some negative health effects, in addition to the fact that most are a significant source of contamination.

Plants and flowers, decorate the place where they are and also, provide a natural and safe aroma.

Some of the most fragrant flowers are lilies, stock, some varieties of roses, and peonies.

2) Flowers and Plants Improve Your Mood and Can Help Against Depression

We all know that the act of sending and receiving flowers strengthens the bonds in relationships. The gesture of sending flowers can mean many things, both as an act of friendship or love. In our experience, we can assure you that it is a very beautiful way to express yourself. People who receive flowers can experience a huge wave of feelings, from empathy, happiness, joy and even love.

For people suffering from depression, flowers are not only a distraction in their daily routine, but they're also a reminder that there are people who love and care about them, and who hope they will recover soon.

Taking care of plants, like watering them, pruning them, and watching them sprout or bloom is a highly therapeutic process and can make people feel better.

What are you waiting for to send get-well flowers?

3) Plants Increase Relaxation and Good Moods

The emotional benefits of plants and flowers are due to their color and fragrance.

Surely you've heard that colors influence our mood. Well, the same thing happens with flowers. For example, soft colors tend to calm us, while the more intense ones tend to increase our perception of energy.

In terms of aroma, flowers tend to get us in a good mood and relax us. Lavender is well-known for its relaxing benefits, as well as chamomile, and some other flowers which are highly used for therapeutic purposes.

So if you want to evoke feelings of sympathy, choose light or pastel colors, but if you need to evoke love or passion choose darker colors like red or burgundy.

4) Plants Purify The Air

As we know, through the process of photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the environment and transform it into oxygen, which complements the respiratory process of humans, since we need oxygen and we exhale carbon dioxide.

This is how plants improve the quality of the air we have inside our home.

Send a plant as a get-well gift from our selection; succulents and orchids are also great at cleansing the air and removing toxins!

5) Plants Help Us Breathe Better

As part of their nature, plants provide humidity to the environment, which is reflected in the reduction of levels of dryness in the environment and dust particles in our home.

With this, respiratory problems such as coughing can be avoided. Keep in mind that some plants, like lilies, and very fragrant ones, can provoke allergies. So if this is your case, you might want to choose hypoallergenic plants like orchids, and succulents which provide the same benefits.

6) Plants and Flowers Help Reduce Feelings of Fatigue

Plants remove smoke, pathogenic and volatile microorganisms, and capture dust, reducing their presence in the air by up to 20%. With this cleansing, the feeling of fatigue that we experience when we are in a charged atmosphere, is reduced.

There is a detailed explanation on this from The National Center for Biotechnology Information that literally says "The use of indoor plants could prove to be a cost-efficient way of indoor air-purification that could be adapted for a variety of environments with no need for special requirements and can also add an aesthetic value that can have an indirect impact on human health".

7) Plants Reduce Noise

Plants absorb sounds especially in closed places and with hard floors, thus reducing noise pollution and generating a double benefit since they also clean the air. There are many places that are researching this benefit like The Gardening Know How, who recommends using plants around your home as sound blockers.

8) Plants Increase Productivity at Work

Studies have shown that working with plants around us help decrease absenteeism and increase employee efficiency and productivity.

Now that we are working from home and have more time to take care for them, what are you waiting for?

If you're not very good with plants or are just starting, a good plant for beginners is the Snake Plant or Sansevieria. Snake plants, in our experience, require the minimum amount of attention. They can survive in dark places and don't require much sunlight. Other kinds of succulents are good to start too.

So don't hesitate much longer and buy yourself some plants, and in a while, your boss will be more relaxed and in a better mood, due to your improved productivity.

Warning: plants don't work magic, but they do help.

How to Make Cut Flowers Last Longer in 2025: 6 Easy Steps

Are you familiar with the feeling of receiving a beautiful floral arrangement, only to be saddened by the knowledge that it won't last very long? Well, as your trusted local florist, we have gathered some valuable tips and tricks over the years that we would love to share with you.

In this post, we share with you 6 easy steps to help your cut flowers and dish gardens/plants last longer and avoid frustrations. Flowers are usually designed in a vase, wrapped or in floral foam.

The first and most important tip is to not be afraid of flowers or plants. Even if you don't have a green thumb, it is not that hard to take care of them, you just have to pay attention to the water level in the vase and the overall room temperature where you place them. By just doing these two things you are already winning.

Now that you got past the fear and frustration, you should do the next:

If your Flowers are in a Vase:

1) Keep flowers away from direct sunlight and air currents. Cut flowers have a limited life because they don't have roots, so it's harder for them to take nutrients in. They don't like the sun anymore; they prefer dark and cold places, and the sunlight will dry them out faster.

2) Keep your arrangement in a cool room. We keep our flowers in a 38 F cooler, so trust me, they really like cool rooms. If you ever wondered how florists accomplish this, there are two ways. With a regular floral cooler like the ones they have at Bush Refrigeration and with a CoolBot which hardwires a regular window ac, this is the one we use.

3) Change the water every 2 to 3 days or every time the water is not clear. Remember to dissolve flower food in the water following the package guidelines (around 1/4 package per 1/2 cup of water).

To change the water place the arrangement under running water (without it touching the flowers) and wait until the water inside the vase looks clear, then dissolve the flower food. Just make sure all the stem's ends are under the water but not the foliage.

The flower food is important because it prevents bacteria from growing and damaging your flowers.

4) Remove wilted flowers or bad-looking petals every 2-3 days; these produce bacteria that harm good flowers.

5) Avoid placing your arrangement near electronic objects such as TVs, radios, or kitchen appliances; they produce heat that may damage your flowers.

6) Also avoid placing your flowers near food or fruits, these produce a gas called ethylene which makes flowers mature faster and die faster.

If your Flowers are Wrapped:

- Remove the wrapping paper by cutting it on the bottom or leave it on but making sure all the stems will be under the water. - Choose your favorite vase and fill it with water that has flower food dissolved according to package guidelines.

- Cut 1/4 inch of every stem, remove any excess foliage so that it won't touch the water, and place your arrangement in the vase you selected. Since your flowers stayed some time without enough water while being delivered, the pores of the stems might have dried and the flowers will not drink as much water. By trimming the stems, new pores will be in contact with the water, extending the life of your flower bouquet. Now that your flowers are in a vase go to the previous item and follow the tips for "flowers in a vase".

If your Flowers are designed in Floral Foam:

Flowers arranged in Floral Foam, in our experience, tend to last longer than in water as long as the foam stays wet and flowers never get moved around. The floral foam acts as a sponge and flowers absorb the water in it. Floral foam is used when a more intricate design is needed. There are some popular brands and types of floral foam out there but two of the ones we use the most are the ones made by Oasis and the ones made by Aquafoam.

- Keep the floral foam always wet (don't forget to dissolve the flower food in the water). Add fresh water (around 1/2 cup) every 2-3 days or as needed. By doing this, you are making sure that your flowers are always drinking water making them last longer.

To add water just look for a spot on the back of the container where you can see the foam and gently pour fresh water on it (with flower food dissolved in it to prevent bacteria from growing and damaging your flowers) until the foam looks wet. Be careful not to spill water on any furniture, it's best to add water on the kitchen's sink. While adding water, make sure not to move any flower. If a flower comes out of the foam, it will create an air bubble between the stem and the foam, interfering with the flower's water intake and making it die faster.

Also, be careful not to pour water into any flower as this will create excess moisture inside the flower creating mold and getting all the arrangement to die faster. It will never hurt to add more water as often as you like, the worst thing that can happen is that it might overflow. When floral foam is wet it has a different color than when it is dry:

Left: Wet Foam (darker) Right: Dry Foam (lighter)

Now that you know more about floral foam, go to the previous item and follow the tips for "flowers in a vase".

If you receive a Plant or a Dish Garden:

- Keep your plant away from air currents, and above 70F. Some sunlight is needed. - Remove leaves that start to wilt every week. Every plant has special care like how much water they need and how frequently they need it, for example, orchids and succulents only need water once a week. To learn more about how to care for succulents click here. To learn more about how to care for your orchids click here. The general guideline for a live plant to last longer is to always keep the soil wet without soaking it unless said plant prefers a drier medium. You can add around 6oz water every week if it needs it. When live plants have too much water, they drown and the roots tend to rot. A good trick to know if your plant needs water is to insert a toothpick for a couple of minutes into the soil, if it comes out dry, it needs water. To learn more about how to care for your houseplants click here.

To sum up, don't be afraid of cut flowers, they are pretty and make your home, office, or favorite place cozier. Just remember to keep them in a cool room, away from air currents and heat sources, and to make sure they have enough fresh water.

Do you know any more tricks or tips for cut flowers to last longer? Let us know in the comments below!

From Roses to Tulips: Exploring the Variety of Flowers at Your Local Florist

Step into a world of vibrant colors, delicate petals, and intoxicating scents as we embark on a journey through the fascinating world of flowers. From the classic elegance of roses to the whimsical beauty of tulips, your local florist is a treasure trove of botanical wonders waiting to be discovered. Whether you're seeking the perfect bouquet for a special occasion or simply looking to brighten up your living space, exploring the variety of flowers available at your local florist is an enchanting experience. Each bloom tells a unique story, with its own symbolism and meaning, making every arrangement a work of art. Join us as we delve into the captivating world of floral diversity, where creativity knows no bounds and nature's beauty is celebrated in all its splendor. Get ready to be inspired, because the magical world of flowers awaits you just around the corner at your neighborhood florist.

The Significance of Flowers in Different Cultures

Flowers have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, symbolizing love, beauty, and various emotions across different civilizations. In ancient Egypt, for example, the lotus flower was revered for its symbolic representation of rebirth and spiritual enlightenment. In Japanese culture, the cherry blossom holds great significance as a symbol of the transient nature of life and the beauty of impermanence. Similarly, the rose has long been associated with love and passion in Western cultures. Understanding the significance of flowers in different cultures adds a deeper layer of appreciation for the variety of blooms available at your local florist.

Flowers are not only visually appealing but also carry a language of their own. Each type of flower has its own unique meaning, allowing you to convey specific sentiments through the art of floral gifting. From expressing love and gratitude to conveying sympathy and condolences, the language of flowers provides a nuanced way to communicate emotions. Whether you're celebrating a joyful occasion or comforting a loved one, your local florist can guide you in selecting the perfect flowers that align with the message you wish to convey. The beauty of flowers lies not only in their visual appeal but also in the emotions they evoke and the stories they tell.

Flowers also play a significant role in religious and spiritual practices worldwide. In Hinduism, marigolds are commonly used to honor deities during religious ceremonies, symbolizing purity and auspiciousness. In Buddhism, the lotus flower is revered as a symbol of spiritual awakening and enlightenment, often depicted in art and architecture. The cultural and spiritual significance of flowers adds depth to their beauty, making them more than just decorative elements but also powerful symbols of belief and devotion.

Popular Types of Roses and Their Meanings

Roses are undoubtedly one of the most popular flowers, loved for their exquisite beauty and captivating fragrance. With a wide range of colors and varieties, roses hold different meanings depending on their hue. The classic red rose has long been associated with love and romance, making it a popular choice for Valentine's Day and anniversaries. Its deep crimson petals symbolize passion and desire, making it the ultimate expression of love. Pink roses, on the other hand, represent admiration and gratitude, making them a perfect gift to show appreciation to someone special in your life.

White roses are often associated with purity and innocence, making them a popular choice for weddings and christenings. They symbolize new beginnings, making them a beautiful way to celebrate milestones and fresh starts. Yellow roses exude joy and friendship, making them an ideal gift for close friends or to brighten someone's day. With their vibrant colors and delicate fragrance, roses are a timeless symbol of love and beauty, and your local florist will have a variety of roses to suit any occasion.

Exploring the Beauty and Symbolism of Tulips

Tulips are known for their elegant beauty and come in a wide array of colors, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. These spring-blooming flowers are often associated with love and are considered a symbol of perfect love. Red tulips, in particular, symbolize deep passion and undying love, while pink tulips represent affection and care. Yellow tulips convey cheerful thoughts and happiness, making them a popular choice to brighten up someone's day or to celebrate a joyful occasion.

Tulips also hold significance in different cultures. In Turkish culture, for example, tulips are seen as a symbol of paradise on earth and are deeply ingrained in their art and literature. The Netherlands is famously known for its tulip festivals, where millions of tulips bloom in vibrant colors, attracting visitors from all over the world. The beauty and symbolism of tulips make them a delightful addition to any floral arrangement, and your local florist will have an array of tulips to choose from during the spring season.

Other Popular Flowers Available at Local Florists

While roses and tulips steal the spotlight, your local florist offers a wide variety of other blooms that are equally enchanting. Lilies, with their elegant and majestic presence, symbolize purity and innocence. They are often used in funeral arrangements as a symbol of the soul's restored innocence in death. Orchids, on the other hand, exude sophistication and beauty, making them a popular choice for special occasions and as decorative elements in homes and offices.

Carnations, with their ruffled petals and delightful fragrance, come in a range of colors and hold various meanings. Pink carnations symbolize a mother's undying love, making them a popular choice for Mother's Day. White carnations represent purity and good luck, while red carnations convey deep love and affection. Sunflowers, with their vibrant yellow petals and sun-like appearance, symbolize happiness and positivity, making them an excellent choice to brighten up any space.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Flowers for Different Occasions

When selecting flowers for different occasions, it's important to consider the recipient's preferences, the occasion itself, and the symbolism behind each bloom. For romantic occasions, red roses are a timeless choice, symbolizing passionate love. For birthdays or celebrations, vibrant and colorful arrangements with a mix of different flowers can create a joyful atmosphere. When expressing sympathy or condolences, white lilies or elegant white arrangements can convey a sense of peace and comfort.

If you're not sure which flowers to choose, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your local florist. They have the expertise and knowledge to help you select the perfect flowers that align with your intentions and the occasion. By taking into account the recipient's taste, the meaning behind each flower, and the overall aesthetic, you can create a truly personalized and meaningful floral arrangement.

The Art of Flower Arrangement and Tips from Florists

Flower arrangement is an art form that requires creativity, skill, and an understanding of floral design principles. Your local florist is a master of this art and can create stunning arrangements that showcase the beauty and diversity of flowers. From traditional bouquets to modern and avant-garde designs, florists can transform a simple collection of blooms into a mesmerizing work of art.

When it comes to flower arrangement, there are a few key principles to keep in mind. Balance and proportion are crucial in creating a visually appealing arrangement. The size, shape, and color of each flower should be carefully considered to achieve a harmonious composition. Florists also pay attention to texture and foliage, using different types of leaves and fillers to add depth and contrast to the arrangement.

Supporting Local Businesses: Why Buying from Local Florists is Beneficial

In an era of online shopping and large chain stores, supporting local businesses is more important than ever. When you buy flowers from your local florist, you're not just purchasing a beautiful bouquet, but you're also supporting the local economy and contributing to the livelihood of small business owners. Local florists often have a deep passion for their craft and take pride in offering personalized service and unique floral arrangements.

Local florists also have a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can enhance your flower-buying experience. They can provide valuable advice on selecting the right flowers for specific occasions, offer tips for care and maintenance, and even provide guidance on creating a custom arrangement tailored to your preferences. By choosing to buy from local florists, you're not only supporting local businesses but also gaining access to a wealth of floral expertise and personalized service that online retailers simply can't match.

How to Find the Best Local Florists in Your Area

Finding the best local florists in your area is easier than you might think. One way to discover hidden gems is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with local florists. Word-of-mouth referrals can often lead you to talented florists who are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and service.

Another great resource for finding local florists is the internet. Many florists have websites or social media pages where they showcase their work and provide information about their services. Online directories and review platforms can also be helpful in identifying reputable local florists with positive customer feedback.

Once you've found a few potential options, take the time to reach out to them directly. This will give you an opportunity to assess their range of offerings, observe the quality of their flowers, and gauge their level of customer service. By conducting a bit of research and exploring your options, you'll be able to find the best local florist in your area who can meet your floral needs and exceed your expectations.

Conclusion: Appreciating the Beauty and Variety of Flowers at Your Local Florist

The world of flowers is a captivating realm where beauty, symbolism, and creativity intertwine. From the classic elegance of roses to the whimsical charm of tulips, your local florist offers an enchanting array of blooms that can brighten up any space and convey heartfelt emotions. Understanding the significance and symbolism of flowers adds depth to their beauty, allowing you to create meaningful and personalized arrangements for any occasion.

Whether you're celebrating love, expressing gratitude, or offering condolences, the language of flowers provides a timeless and profound way to communicate emotions. Your local florist is not just a place to buy flowers but a gateway to a world of floral diversity and artistic expression. By supporting local businesses, you not only contribute to the local economy but also gain access to personalized service, expert advice, and unique floral arrangements that add a touch of magic to any moment.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of flowers, step into your neighborhood florist and let the beauty and variety of blooms inspire you. Explore the wonders of roses, tulips, lilies, and more, and allow their vibrant colors and delicate petals to transport you to a realm where nature's beauty is celebrated in all its splendor. Tognoli Florist, your local florist in Gaithersburg, Maryland is ready to help you create unforgettable moments and turn ordinary occasions into extraordinary ones. Embrace the magic of flowers and let them weave their timeless charm into your life.