From commercial growing to backyard urban gardens, Arizona has a rich floral history. This history is often overlooked, unless you are deeply involved in the flower community. Long-time residents of the valley fondly recall the flower fields in South Phoenix and share their memories of the beauty created by Baseline Flowers1. Since founding Urban Desert Flora, I have had the opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between flower growing and flower arranging in Arizona. This journey has led me to examine the connection between my profession and the land.
Ultimately, I am seeking answers to the questions:
- “What does it mean to be a florist NOW?”
- “What does floral design mean to me?”
The word that continually resonates with me is balance. When I consider what it would take to dive into the mainstream, commercial side of the floral industry, I feel a sense of imbalance. The deeper I immerse myself in Arizona’s local flower world, the more I recognize my responsibility to the land from which I source my materials.
The short answer to my earlier questions is that florists and floral designers have a profound responsibility to the Earth. I strive to create in a way that aligns with my values, aiming to be as independent of mainstream florals as possible. This means prioritizing sustainability, supporting local growers, and respecting the natural environment.
At Urban Desert Flora, our mission is to honor the rich floraculture history of Arizona while innovating and pushing the boundaries of sustainable floral design. By doing so, we not only create beautiful arrangements but also contribute to the preservation and appreciation of our local ecosystem.
