Blue Flower, Blue Planet : Earth Day 2015

Earth Day was first conceived in 1969, in reaction to a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara that ravaged the California coastline. At the time, there were minimal protections for our blue planet, and accidents of this kind were common. Community organizers, along with a senator from Wisconsin--Gaylord Nelson--pushed for an environmental teach-in to be held on April 22, 1970.

On that day, the influence of the earth and nature had particular significance; millions across the United States participated in the celebration of our blue planet and the collective concern for its conversation and preservation. Years later, this day was brought to international attention, and now over 190 countries celebrate and recognize the beauty of our shared Earth.

Official Earth Day Flag

Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts. Now, the United States boasts some of the strongest environmental standards in the world--especially here in California.

And here in California, Sun Valley has been doing its part to nourish and give back to the planet. This is especially important since our products (aka beautiful flowers) come straight from the Earth's rich heart. To demonstrate our care and respect for the land we use, we seek to utilize sustainable farming practices. To minimize unnecessary waste, we use an environmentally friendly steam-sterilization technique to recycle our soil, while also employing the practices of crop rotation, integrated waste/compost management, and energy-efficient greenhouses. We use bicycles to get from hoop house to greenhouse to field to office, which is friendly for the land and for our bodies.

Earth Day sustainable sustainability bicycles

We were the first flower farm in California to be certified by Veriflora, an agricultural sustainability and eco-labeling program which ensures that we meet America's most comprehensive sustainability standard. In short, we try to live symbiotically with the planet that, in turn, gives us our gorgeous lilies, tulips, and irises.

And what better way to celebrate the iconic beauty of the Earth than with a flower? Here at Sun Valley, we are commemorating Earth Day with our Iris. It is a refreshing and pure symbol of what clean air, land, and water can achieve—a blue flower from, and for, a blue planet.

This Earth Day, look around, feel the dirt, smell the air—find yourself something of this planet to enjoy. Bring some earthen beauty home with you and celebrate with our Iris, grown with the earth in mind.