Sending flowers is a very good way to offer sympathy and support for someone who is going through a difficult time or is suffering an illness, to say thank-you for hospitality, and for many other reasons. When you do send flowers, you may be a bit overwhelmed by your choices, so note a few tips on what to choose and what to avoid, so you know your recipient will appreciate your gesture.
1. Note their climate and setting
If you're sending flowers to someone out of state, do they live in the tropics, or is it very cold where they live? Delicate flowers may immediately wilt in tropical areas or not last long in a cold environment, even if those flowers are kept indoors. Roses are hearty flowers that do well in many climates as are carnations and mums. Opt for these if the person's home may be in a very warm or very cool area, so you know the flowers will last as long as possible.
This is also important to consider if you're thinking of sending a potted plant rather than cut flowers; choose something that is native to their location or standard weather conditions so you know it will thrive.
2. Be careful of personal touches
If you're sending flowers to a co-worker, neighbour, or someone else with whom you're not especially close, be careful of red roses, which are considered a romantic flower, and personal touches like a teddy bear or other stuffed animal or even balloons. These can be seen as being too personal and inappropriate. Stick to a generic bouquet and a generic card that wishes them well; choose carnations and mums in a yellow colour, as this is very cheery but these flowers are not seen as overly personal.
3. Use caution when choosing potted plants
Potted plants can be a very good choice, especially for a co-worker or group of co-workers, who can keep the plant on a desk they all share. However, note if your recipient has a number of plants already, and if the one you send would be just one too many plants for them. On the other hand, if your recipient has few if any plants, it may be that they struggle to keep them healthy. Some people simply have a "brown thumb" and don't do well with plants. In those cases, cut flowers that they can enjoy for a week or two and then dispose of when they wilt can be a better option.
