Jersey Flowers
The clear waters, rich soil and mild climate of Jersey has meant that it is the ideal location for farming and growing produce. Jersey's clement climate has meant that many nurseries and flower farms are situated there, and the range and display of Jersey flowers sold at the Central Market in Beresford Street, Saint Helier, is a memorable part of a visit to the island. Not for nothing is Jersey called "the island of flowers" - flowers blossom earlier in Jersey than in Britain, with mimosas coming into bloom in February, and agapanthus in July!
To celebrate the abundance of flowers on the island, an annual event is held in Jersey called 'The Battle of the Flowers'. Inaugurated in 1902 to celebrate the Coronation of Edward VII, this carnival is held in the second week of August, and involves a parade of spectacular flower floats, as well as music, funfairs, street entertainments and dancers. The parade of flower floats is a chance for each of the parishes of Jersey to flaunt its creativity. It is named a 'Battle' as, in the past, the dismantling of the flowers on the floats became a literal 'battle' of petals. In 1912 Charlie Chaplin was one of the parade guests.
One tourist attraction for Jersey flowers is Le Noir Pré Orchid Field, a unique site of two wet meadows, a habitat where a variety of wild orchids flower from May to June. The site has been kept clear from farmland developments, and is one of the last places where the Jersey or Loose-flowered Orchid (Orchis laxiflora) grows. In the springtime, Shepherd's Cress, Dwarf pansies and other annuals flower on the sand dunes of Jersey. From April to May the very rare Sand Crocus flowers near the dunes. Its flowers open with the sun. During the summer, quintessential Jersey flowers such as Evening Primroses bloom on the dunes, and closer to the sea Yellow Horned Poppies and Sea Holly can be seen.
Due to its location and ideal flower-growing environment, many florists are based in Jersey. The idea of Jersey flowers has come to stand for freshness and quality. Is there a better way to let someone know you care or say "Thank You" than with a gorgeous bouquet? Many Jersey based florists now offer delivery at the click of a button. Sending Jersey flowers couldn't be easier - whether it's a birthday, anniversary or house warming, online delivery services are a sure way to have the perfect gift to send by post. For those special times of the year such as Christmas, Valentine's Day and Mother's Day, Jersey flower specialists will offer florist-designed bouquets for you to choose from which are also sent by post complete with personal message card and decorative gift box.
Other traditional gifts can be sent with Jersey flowers. Prime among these is Jersey fudge, as well as Jersey tea - an association born from the historical period in which Jersey was a central tea blending and packing base for companies such as Lyon's, Tetley's and Horniman's.
Sending Jersey flowers is particularly popular at the time of public celebrations, festivals and key events. Flowers by post are delivered in bulk at Christmas, and also for New Year, Easter and Valentines Day. In addition, flowers are now a popular choice for events such as graduations, weddings, birthdays and christenings. An online Jersey flower delivery service will be able to arrange for a floral gift delivered to the door of the recipient. The arrival of a bouquet straight from the 'island of flowers' into the house is a luxurious and delightful experience for the recipient, letting them know that the sender is thinking of them.