Written by Corine Holtmaat on October 24, 2024
How I see flowers and why they are essential
As the daughter of a grower, I know firsthand the importance of plants and flowers. They’re not just a source of joy and beauty; they’re also key to connection and well-being. Plants and flowers have always been central in my life, both personally and professionally. Our family business has worked for years to develop stronger, disease-resistant plants that reduce or eliminate the need for harmful chemicals. Because of this, I’m deeply affected and even angered when flowers are criticized in the media, as though they pose a danger rather than being a source of joy and meaning.
The reality of flower cultivation
What many people may not know is that flower farming in the Netherlands has seen significant improvements. The use of chemicals has been greatly reduced, and as an industry, we continue striving for even more sustainable growing practices. Flowers here are grown responsibly, with many growers transitioning to organic methods. Stories circulating in the media, like the tragic case of Emmy in France, sometimes paint a picture that doesn’t match today’s reality. Plus, we rarely know with certainty what causes a specific health issue. From my own experience, I believe it’s essential to view health and illness with a broader perspective.
Our breeding company plays an important role in this. Every day, we work to develop new varieties that are naturally strong and resilient, reducing the need for chemical treatments. This is the future of flowers, and it’s something we should be proud of.
A reminder of nature’s power
Recent reports on pesticides in flowers have understandably caused concern. Many wonder if they should continue to buy flowers after hearing such news. But let’s not forget that for centuries, flowers and plants have had a positive impact on our health, both physically and energetically. The issue isn’t with nature itself; it’s about how we handle this delicate balance. Plants are natural air purifiers; they bring peace and wonder into our lives. Flowers have a deep, energetic impact, helping us connect with the earth and our own core.
While there’s always room to improve cultivation practices, we mustn’t overlook the value of flowers and plants. It’s crucial to think for ourselves and avoid getting swept up in the fears that the media can amplify. After all, fear may be one of the most damaging forces we encounter. Flowers are not health threats; they’re allies. As time goes on, we’ll continue to fight for a healthy, responsible relationship with nature. But let’s also acknowledge that nature fascinates, inspires, and heals us. This is the message we need to spread.
Why flowers mean so much to me
For me, flowers are much more than a product. They bring color to my life and a sense of home. Growing up with them, they’ve always had a profound impact on me. Each flower, each color, each scent evokes feelings of joy and wonder. That’s what flowers mean to me: they connect me with nature, my family, and myself.
I’m also convinced flowers have a deeper significance. They can improve our mood, calm us, and give us energy. The scent of roses, the vibrant colors of gerberas, and the soothing nature of lavender are all examples of the healing powers flowers possess. For me, flowers are a form of self-care. They brighten my day, and I believe they do the same for many others.
The hidden language of flowers
Mother nature’s wisdom is tucked away in flowers. Every flower carries a subtle yet profound message within.
The Energy of Flowers: Flowers are often associated with specific energies, such as love, joy, peace, or protection. For example:
- Roses often symbolize love, both romantic and self-love. Their scent and color create warmth and affection.
- Lavender is renowned for its calming, healing properties and is commonly used to reduce stress.
- Sunflowers radiate joy and positivity, with their bright yellow color bringing energy and a sunny feel.
Flowers as Symbols: Throughout history, flowers have held symbolic roles in various cultures and spiritual traditions. In Victorian times, floriography—the language of flowers—was used to send secret messages. For instance, honeysuckle represented devotion, azaleas symbolized passion, and deep red roses signified enchantment.
We must think for ourselves
What frustrates me most about negative coverage is the resulting fear that people have about buying flowers. The idea that flowers could be harmful undermines their positive value. Yes, we should be critical of how flowers are grown, but let’s not lose sight of the benefits they bring us. The media is powerful, but we don’t have to accept everything we hear unquestioningly. We can think for ourselves, investigate, and experience things directly.
In the Netherlands, so much is already being done to grow flowers in environmentally friendly, sustainable ways. Let’s take pride in that rather than living in fear. Nature offers us incredible beauty, and flowers are a big part of that. Let’s not lose our connection to nature because of one-sided media stories.
Flowers are life force
Flowers are a source of energy and joy for me. They help me feel connected to nature and to those around me. They are small yet powerful symbols of how nature supports us, however small and fragile they may seem. It’s wonderful how flowers bloom, bringing color even to the grayest days. We should hold onto that sense of wonder.
I hope people continue to enjoy flowers, embrace their energy, and stay aware of the role nature plays in our lives. Flowers aren’t just decoration; they are a reflection of life itself.
Stay critical, but be mindful of the positive role that flowers and plants can play in your life. They’re not only decorative but contribute to our health and the well-being of our planet.
Flowers give us so much. They are home. They are joy. And they are vital! They play a key role in supporting pollination, biodiversity, and food production, all of which are essential to healthy ecosystems and our everyday lives. Let’s never lose sight of that.
