The Incredible Journey of a Billion Roses for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day and roses go hand in hand—there’s just no denying it. More than chocolates, fancy dinners, or oversized teddy bears, roses have become the ultimate symbol of love on February 14th. But have you ever stopped to think about how those beautiful bouquets actually make it to your hands? Believe it or not, nearly one billion roses cross borders just in time for Valentine’s Day, embarking on an incredible journey from farms in South America to homes across the U.S.
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Most of the roses sold in the U.S. today come from Colombia and Ecuador , where farmers carefully plan months in advance. They decide exactly when to “pinch” their crops—meaning they cut back the plants at just the right time so they’ll bloom perfectly in February. Harvesting is a massive effort, often requiring farms to bring in extra workers to meet the insane demand. Once the roses are picked, they’re packed into boxes, stored in coolers, and quickly flown to Miami, Florida —the main gateway for imported flowers.
Now, this is where things get really intense. On an average day, flowers arrive in Miami about seven times daily , but before Valentine’s Day, that number doubles! Over the course of two weeks leading up to the holiday, more than 14 flights of flowers arrive each day , carrying millions of stems. The moment they land, they’re rushed through customs inspections , then sent off to massive warehouses, where they’re trimmed, hydrated, and prepped for distribution.
Next stop? Supermarkets, florists, and retailers all over the country. Trucks transport these delicate blooms under strict temperature control , ensuring they stay fresh and vibrant. It’s a logistical dance that requires thousands of extra workers and an incredible amount of planning. Any hiccup—like a sudden snowstorm—could mean delays, leaving flower lovers empty-handed.
Of course, there’s been some debate about the environmental impact of this global rose trade. The refrigeration, transportation, and sheer distance these flowers travel do leave a carbon footprint. Some experts suggest choosing locally grown flowers for a fresher, more sustainable option.
But no matter where your bouquet comes from, the moment you unwrap it, trim the stems, and place those gorgeous roses in a vase, you’re holding the result of an international journey—a race against time to make your Valentine’s Day just a little more special.
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