Local Florists Share Valentine's Day Flower Trends and Tips

Our newsroom runs on more than coffee and craft beer — it runs on you. Support Decorah News' local reporting today. DECORAH — As Valentine's Day approaches, some Decorah florists encourage shoppers to embrace more thoughtful, sustainable, and creative floral gifts beyond the traditional red roses. "If red roses aren't your thing, you're very much in luck! There are so many unique Valentine's Day floral and botanical offerings to choose from," said Clara Muggli-Toyloy of Oak & Olive Flowers. Muggli-Toyloy encourages customers to start by choosing where they shop. "First of all, I would recommend shopping directly with your local florist, not an online company that acts as an intermediary such as Teleflora or FTD." Clara Muggli-Toyloy, owner of Oak & Olive Flowers. Oak & Olive Flowers Flower trends and color palettes Traditional roses remain popular for Valentine's Day, but interest is growing in softer styles and modern blooms. "Garden roses offer a softer, more elevated feel," said Jennifer Opheim of Bloom Flower Farm. "For something modern, look for parrot tulips, ranunculus, and anemones. Beautiful plant options could be orchids or planted bulbs." Color trends are also evolving beyond red and white. "Fresh and modern color palettes are on trend. Opt for a mix of bright, saturated tones or a soft, romantic palette that includes peach, terracotta, butter yellow, or lavender," Muggli-Toyloy suggests. Sustainable options during the winter season Sustainability continues to influence flower choices, though sourcing local blooms in winter can be challenging. Oak & Olive Flowers supplements its Valentine's offerings with indoor-grown fresh flowers. "We have access to high-quality blooms such as tulips from a large greenhouse grower in Minneapolis to round out our fresh flower offerings," she said. Talia Lewey of Flora Flower Cart recommends dried bouquets. "Dried bouquets are a win-win. They are grown locally, eco-friendly, long-lasting, and support small businesses during the slower season." Talia Lewey and Flora Flower Cart. Cydney Weitzel Choosing the right bouquet For Opheim, it's the thought that counts. "My recommendation is always something simple, intentional, and heartfelt. The beauty of Valentine's flowers isn't in how many stems are used, but in the quiet messages they carry. The act of giving flowers is the sweetest part," she said. Her suggestions include: "A tight bundle of one variety wrapped simply in paper or tied with ribbon," and "a small grouping of lush garden roses paired with one complementary bloom, such as ranunculus, or airy greenery feels very sweet and elevated." When it comes to symbolism, Opheim says there are no strict rules. "Choose blooms you love or that remind you of the person you're gifting. Intention matters most," she said. "I often think in terms of color: bold red roses make a statement, while soft shades feel gentle and thoughtful." Jennifer Opheim of Bloom Flower Farm Jennifer Opheim Unique and unexpected gifts Florists say Valentine's Day shoppers looking for something different have plenty of options. "I'm personally loving orchids right now," Opheim said. "They're elegant, long-lasting and feel like a truly unique and unexpected gift." Muggli-Toyloy also recommends nontraditional botanical gifts, including "a paperwhite bulb forcing kit, an amaryllis bulb, a new succulent for the windowsill or an air plant." Ordering early and caring for flowers Ordering early due to high holiday demand is highly recommended. "For the best selection of fresh flowers, you should plan to pre-order your Valentine's bouquet," Muggli-Toyloy said. "If you wait until the last minute to pick something up, your options will be much more limited." Proper care can help flowers last longer at home. "To prolong the vase life of fresh flowers, make sure you use a clean vase that's been sanitized," Muggli-Toyloy said, noting that a hot cycle in the dishwasher works well. "Keep flowers out of direct sun and heat, and change the water daily for best results." Opheim added that shoppers should start with clean, freshly trimmed stems. "Use fresh water and a portion of the flower food provided, saving the rest for your next water change," Opheim said. "A tiny drop of bleach helps prevent bacteria, and a splash of Sprite or a pinch of sugar can help feed your blooms." A sweet reminder Shoppers are also encouraged to keep Valentine's Day in perspective. "Don't overthink it," Opheim said. "Valentine's Day is just a sweet day to remind the people in your life how much you love and appreciate them. This includes gifting flowers to yourself, too." Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.