Why the price of roses rise for Valentine’s Day
Many Valentine’s Day commodities suddenly become more expensive as February 14th approaches for no other reason than to take advantage of you. It’s rather unfortunate too because a day of love becomes a day of high costs! While we thought we had an idea as to why this happens, it was all speculation. A little research opened our eyes to the understandable realities florists face during this time of year.
Wholesale prices rise
In order to understand why the price of roses rise for Valentine’s day, you must first consider where they are coming from. Imagine this, 200 million roses are grown specifically for February 14th every single year. That’s insane right? The amount of stress put on growers is out of this world. They are forced to deal with crazy high energy costs thanks to cold, sometimes inclement weather. They aren’t able to avoid the need to hire additional labor- and transportation/fuel prices are never stable and often require urgency. Every cost incurred by the grower trickles down to the retail price you’re forced to pay.
Location is Key
Depending on where you live, there will be a fluctuation in price. In New York City, for example- a long stemmed rose that usually sells for $1.50 doubles to $2.50. That’s probably the most extreme example, as other places like California and Chicago may see a 15-30% increase per stem. Why? Access to growers.
Warmer regions will face less distress and therefore smaller season associated costs.
Retailers need to make up the difference
Since the price of wholesale roses skyrocket, your local florist isn’t about to eat those costs. With the security of high demand, prices rise to ensure nobody loses any money. It may not do your wallet any favors, but shopping local and supporting small business is very important. Although you may be able to snag a cheaper price for a bouquet on websites like ProFlowers and/or FTD, the reality is delivery costs and service fees will get you in the end regardless.
Don’t forget, wholesale growers aren’t the only one forced with higher labor costs. The number of arrangements any one retailer will have to produce is almost certain to put pressure on their existing help. Needing to hire additional, temporary labor- as well as arrange a heavy number of deliveries incur costs of their own that rose pursuers will have to come to terms with if they want flowers for Valentine’s Day. Besides, florists always try to add an extra special touch with ribbon, free vase and accent flowers- so it’s not as if they’re trying to be skimpy for more money. Quality costs.
Want cheaper roses? Wait until August or September
Our research shows us that online prices through big box florists show quite a variety over the course of one year. For the lowest prices, order a dozen roses in August/September and you’ll pay a fraction of the price. In the end it’s up to you and how important roses are for February 14th vs. any other time of the year. If a $20 bouquet sounds better to you than a $35-50 one (not including associated fees) – take our advice and delay your day of love for ultimate savings!
You can still incorporate roses into Valentine’s day without spending an arm and a leg! Consider our luxurious Country Rose goat milk soaps and lotions 🙂
