When you're looking to purchase a bouquet or arrangement from a florist, it can be hard to discern the different grades of flowers available. This article will help you understand the different grades of flowers, and where you're most likely to find them.

What are flower grades?

Flower grades are a classification system used by the floral industry to categorise flowers based on their quality, freshness, and overall appearance. They typically range from Grade A to Grade D, with Grade A representing the highest quality flowers and Grade D being the lowest. Understanding flower grades can help you choose the right flowers for your needs and budget.

Grade A Flowers

Grade A flowers, also known as "Premium" or "Select" flowers, are the highest quality flowers available. They are found more so in premium florists and are known for the following characteristics:

• Freshness: Grade A flowers are the freshest flowers available, typically harvested within the last 24 to 48 hours. This ensures that they have a long vase life and will maintain their beauty for an extended period.
• Size: These flowers have the largest bloom size and longest stems in comparison to other grades. This makes them perfect for large, extravagant arrangements and special events.
• Appearance: Grade A flowers have perfect or near-perfect symmetry, colour, and form. They have minimal to no imperfections, such as blemishes or damage.
• Price: Due to their superior quality, Grade A flowers are the most expensive option. However, if you're looking for the best flowers for a special occasion, and the longest lasting, these are worth the investment.

Grade B Flowers

Grade B flowers, also referred to as "Choice" or "Standard" flowers, are a more affordable option that still offers good quality. They are found more so in everyday florists and online only florists, and have the following features:

• Freshness: Grade B flowers are slightly less fresh than Grade A flowers but still have a reasonable vase life.
• Size: These flowers have medium-sized blooms and stems, making them suitable for a variety of arrangements.
• Appearance: Grade B flowers may have some minor imperfections, such as uneven coloration or slight damage to petals. However, these imperfections are usually not noticeable unless closely inspected.
• Price: Grade B flowers are more affordable than Grade A flowers, making them a popular choice for everyday floral needs.

Grade C Flowers

Grade C flowers, commonly known as "Economy" or "Value" flowers, are an even more budget-friendly option. They are founds more so in fruiterers and have the following attributes:

• Freshness: These flowers are less fresh than Grade A and B flowers, which may result in a shorter vase life.
• Size: Grade C flowers have smaller blooms and shorter stems, making them more appropriate for simple arrangements.
• Appearance: These flowers may have noticeable imperfections, such as significant blemishes or damage. However, they can still be used effectively in floral designs where imperfections can be hidden.
• Price: Grade C flowers are a cost-effective option for consumers on a tight budget or looking for flowers for casual, everyday use.

Grade D Flowers

Grade D flowers are the lowest quality flowers available and are often used for purposes other than arrangements, such as crafting or potpourri. They are founds more so in supermarkets and have the following characteristics:

• Freshness: Grade D flowers have the least freshness, which significantly impacts their vase life.
• Size: These flowers have the smallest blooms and shortest stems among all the grades.
• Appearance: Grade D flowers have the most imperfections, such as blemishes, damage, or irregular shapes.
• Price: These flowers are the least expensive option, but their quality may not be suitable for most floral arrangements.

In Summary

Understanding flower grades is essential when shopping for flowers at a florist or any retailer for that matter. Don't be afraid to ask your florist or fruiterer what grade you are getting. What seems cheaper up front, often works out more expensive in the end due to lifespan and backing by the seller if there is an issue. Just like most things in life!

Kate x