History of Valentine's Day and Cut Flowers That Tend to Last Longest

Gardening Basics

History of Valentine's Day and Cut Flowers That Tend to Last Longest

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History of Valentine's Day:


Every year on 14th February we see couples unite and celebrate love. The bestow their love of life with cards, flowers, gifts and tons of love. But, do you know why and for whom is the day celebrated? FYI - it wasn’t a love story with a happy ending.
In Rome, around 3rd Century, Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage for young men as he felt that single men made great soldiers. Priest Valentine felt that the law was unjust and he cheated the Emperor by secretly performing marriage ceremonies for young couples. Soon the Emperor found out about the felony and sentenced priest Valentine to death.
During his tenure in prison, Valentine fell in love with jailer’s daughter. Before the execution, Valentine secretly sent a letter to the jailer’s daughter and enclosed it with the words, “From Your Valentine.” This expression is used even today. Valentine was executed on February 14 in 270 AD. In 496 AD,  Pope Gelasius to honor Valentine declared February 14 as Valentine’s Day. Centuries later St. Valentine is honored each year on February 14. The day is lauded especially with flowers as the stunning blooms symbolize love, gratitude, passion, commitment, appreciation, and romance. Buy flower seeds online.
cut flowers which last for longer
Do you know that the concept of exchanging flowers too has a history? It was started by Charles II of Sweden and dates back to the 18th century. He used flowers to have a conversation without words. Hence, even now we send different flowers to express love, joy, and admiration. Read about how can you go green this valentines.
If you are planning to send flowers or ordering a bouquet, we would suggest going for these cut flowers that tend to last the longest. You might have seen lilies and roses are primary flowers in a bouquet as they last quite long and offer fair value for money. Asiatic lilies come in a vibrant variety of yellow, orange and hot pink colors that make them perfect for Valentine’s Day. These charming flowers last 4-5 days and would last even longer if flower buds are closed when delivered. On the other hand, roses could last for 7-10 days at a stretch. You could keep them lively with clean cold water and flower food.
For equally attractive and long-lasting options you could opt for flowers like chrysanthemums or carnations. Carnations are one of the longest lasting flowers and the most affordable ones too. Available in hundreds of colors, they’re can bloom for 14 to 21 days!
chrysanthemum flowers for valentines
Of all the flowers you know, orchids last the longest, i.e., between 14 to 21 days. The gorgeous blooms are both luxurious and elegant, and they make an excellent impression. So instead of a cut orchid arrangement, go for potted orchids instead. These blooms will keep blooming and will make a floral gift that will last. Grow orchids indoor with our online guide.
valentines orchid floral gift

Other cut flowers that last long:

  • Tulips if taken proper care could last for 7-10 days.
  • Limonium is pretty filler flowers that are used to make bouquets look full. Regular trimming and fresh water could help these flowers last up to 14 days.
  • Anthuriums with heart-shaped flowers are colorful blooms that could last for 42 days! The only condition is the variety and the season.
  • Believe us; Chrysanthemum can survive for 25 to 30 days! These bright and beautiful blooms come in numerous colors and can keep your indoors decorated days after Valentine celebrations.
  • Visually enticing blue-violet, funnel-shaped Delphiniums retain their beauty for up to 14 days. To keep lively trim the stems every 2 to 3 days and keep them away from fruit and vegetables as they produce ethylene gas which can deteriorate Delphiniums rapidly. Buy flowering plants online.
  • Fragrant Freesia can bloom continuously for 7-10 days. If you change the water and chop the stems every two days, you could keep these beauties at home for more than a week.
  • Gladiolas are allergy friendly flowers that when taken care of, can last for minimum 14 days!  
  • Even in old bouquets, Gerberas look amazing. They can also last for 14-21 days if taken good care of!
  • Zinnias can stay fresh for up to 24 days. They love tender care and are naturally long lasting.
Read about 7 houseplants that express the language of love.
Freesia flowers used in bouquets
Let us know which of these flowers are your favorite. We would love to be a part of your Valentine’s Day celebrations.