As Mother’s Day approaches, UF/IFAS Extension horticulture expert Erin Harlow says meaningful flower gifts don’t have to come from a florist. With a little thought, she says, creative living gifts can feel more personal than traditional bouquets.
“First, consider things like mom’s favorite flower or color and whether or not she can handle smells and go from there,” said Harlow. She says paying attention to freshness or choosing living plants from farmers’ markets can make gifts feel more personal and memorable.
Once you’ve thought about what she likes, you can also get creative with gifts that last longer than a bouquet. That’s where the idea of a ‘grow‑your‑own’ flower kit comes in.
“A bigger pot is easier to care for,” said Harlow. “If you’re going to get a container, I recommend at least a three-gallon size, which is typically 18 inches.”
A larger pot also cuts down on watering needs. “A decent-sized pot that they can put a flower in generally requires watering once a week once established. It’ll grow and do well.”
From there, the kit comes together easily with seeds, gardening gloves, and a watering can. “That’s a great little gift and they come in really fun colors,” Harlow said. “Get her some Zinnia seeds, there are so many kinds and they’re so pretty. You can start them right now really anywhere in the state, and they’ll grow through the summer.”
If flowers aren’t the right fit, Harlow says farmers’ markets offer plenty of herbs and vegetables that make just as thoughtful a living gift. Many markets are stocked with fresh options this time of year, and herbs are especially easy to bundle into a small basket or container garden.
She adds that herbs thrive through the summer in Florida and are a favorite for moms who especially love to cook. Shoppers can find choices like sage, thyme, oregano, chamomile, and more at markets across the state.
“There are so many choices for summer herbs,” Harlow said. “People appreciate them, and you can often find plants that are grown locally.”
If mom prefers something she doesn’t have to tend to, Harlow says a DIY bouquet using grocery store or market flowers is an easy way to make the gift feel personal.
“When building your own bouquet, pick colors that complement each other and you can’t go wrong,” Harlow said.
She recommends starting with greenery, choosing one focal flower, then adding an accent, smaller bloom in a similar color. Finish with filler flowers, which Harlow describes as “little, tiny flowers, usually baby’s breath or something with a type of fruit or berry on it.”
“Those four components really make up a cohesive bouquet,” Harlow said.
With a little planning, those celebrating Mother’s Day can create meaningful gifts using grocery store flowers, locally grown plants, or simple potted options that last longer than a single day.
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