ORGANIC FLOWERS FOR YOUR VALENTINE
Saturday, February 9
An estimated 214 million roses were produced for Valentine's Day in 2007, according to Aboutflowers.com, a web site sponsored by the Society of American Florists. 86 percent of men and 46 percent of women surveyed purchased flowers for their spouses and significant others. Many florists anticipate greater sales of organic roses, now that they are more readily available. "Roses were once a flower that I did not take pleasure in working with due to the toxic chemicals that were used to grow them, but now that organic roses are readily available they are one of my favorites," says Sherene Hulugalle, owner and lead designer for Wisteria Lane Organic Floral Design, a Southern California-based shop that sells only Certified Organic and VeriFlora™ flowers for individuals, weddings and events.

According to the Organic Consumers Association, "Florists who handle non-organic flowers have been known to develop dermatitis on their hands. Pesticides and other toxic chemicals used on flowers affect the health of farm workers and florists. The toxic chemicals spread onto the clothes and into the bodies of farm workers and their children." The Organic Trade Association (OTA) links various pesticides to fetal death, diabetes, autism, Parkinson's disease and cancer.

"Flowers should be a welcome gift that doesn't harm anyone," comments Hulugalle. "We're proud that we work exclusively with fair trade farms that treat their workers well and grow flowers that are Certified Organic or VeriFlora™, which are flowers that are sustainably grown, environmentally, socially and economically sustainable, and continually checked for product integrity."

A former human rights worker from Sri Lanka, Hulugalle's concern for people is what has led her to create affiliations with organizations such as Heal the Bay, Doctors Without Borders, RideOn and City Hearts: Kids Say Yes to the Arts. A portion of the proceeds from each sale of Wisteria Lane's eco-friendly arrangements are contributed to the affiliated organization of the client's choice.

For Valentine's Day, Wisteria Lane is offering specials on Certified Organic red roses: one dozen for $89; two dozen for $149; three dozen for $199. All tax and delivery charges are included. Mention promotional code WP0208 to receive the discount. Visit www.WisteriaLaneFlowerShop.com or call 888-345-6101.

By Marketwire

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