Imported flower bouquets are a carbon polluting, energy consuming, and water sucking trip.

Most store-bought flowers have a surprisingly massive, harmful footprint. Andrea talks with Cole from Little Hollow Flowers in Berthoud, CO, who explains why local, sustainably-grown blooms are the planet-friendly way to go.

Local Flowers: Find local flower growers that don’t use propane or natural gas to heat their greenhouses or plant your own! Flowers are basically a beauty treatment for your yard and living space.

Critters Need You: Growing organic or spray-free is a must. Pollinators, insects, and birds rely on toxin-free flowers for food and need the “dead heads” and stems for winter survival (seed and cover).

Stem Superstar: Leave those dead stems standing until after the last frost—it’s the least you can do for the planet’s tiny residents.

Plant Extra: Sow some extra for some local wildlife.

Plant the Good Stuff (some are perennials):

Borage: Brilliant, blue, medicinal.

Butterfly Bush: Monarch magnet.

Coneflower: Sturdy and striking.

Dahlia: Big, bold beauties.

Daisy: Simple, classic charm.

Goldenrod: Late-season buffet for bees.

Lavender: Au natural air freshener.

Marigold: My fave too!

Milkweed: Monarch caterpillars must have.

Snapdragon: Mouthy and fun.

Sunflower: Bird faves.

Tip: Some seeds need a winter nap (overwintering) to sprout in spring.