Birthday
HydrangeasFlowers for grandparents are given on birthdays, holidays and for no reason at all — and also on 1 October, the UN International Day of Older Persons. Such a gift is valued for the thought, not the size. Here is which flowers and plants are practical for older people, what to avoid and how to make relatives happy if you live far away.
Light, long-lasting bouquets and potted plants can be ordered with delivery, and a flower basket makes a festive greeting.
Key principles
- Lightness. A small bouquet is easy to hold, move and change the water in.
- Longevity. Chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, carnations and spray roses last 10–20 days.
- Gentle scent. Strongly scented lilies and tuberoses can cause headaches, especially in a small room.
- Bright, contrasting colours. They are easier to see for people with weaker eyesight.
- A vase included or an arrangement in a basket, so there is no need to find a suitable vessel.
Flowers for a grandmother
Spray roses and lisianthus in pastel or warm tones, chrysanthemums, alstroemeria and carnations all work well; in spring tulips and daffodils, in summer garden flowers such as peonies, asters and dahlias. Many grandmothers love "their" flowers that grew in their own garden — if you know her favourite, that is the best choice. For more ideas, see our guide to flowers for mum: much of it applies to grandmothers too.
What to give a grandfather
Older men often appreciate practical gifts. Good options are a compact bouquet of bright flowers (sunflowers, chrysanthemums, gerberas), a houseplant, a fruit basket with a small bouquet, or — for a gardener — a sapling, bulbs or potted herbs.
Potted plants
A flowering plant lasts longer than a bouquet, but choose an easy one: Phalaenopsis orchid, kalanchoe, African violet, peace lily, spider plant. If there are cats at home or small grandchildren visit often, check whether the plant is toxic — see houseplants that are toxic to pets and children.
What to avoid
- Large, heavy bouquets that are hard to lift and put in a vase.
- Strongly scented flowers if your grandparents suffer from migraines or allergies.
- Fussy plants that need complicated care.
- Funeral symbolism in the wrapping: black ribbons and combinations associated with funerals.
If you live far away
Order delivery of a bouquet with a vase or a basket arrangement and add a card with warm words from the grandchildren. It is lovely if you call at the moment of delivery — for older people, a real conversation matters most. Choose a convenient delivery time, in the morning or afternoon when they are sure to be home.
FAQ
When is the International Day of Older Persons?
The UN observes it on 1 October.
Which flowers last longest in a vase?
Chrysanthemums, alstroemeria, carnations, spray roses and lisianthus — 10–20 days with fresh water.
What can I give a grandfather instead of a bouquet?
A houseplant, a fruit basket, potted herbs or a sapling for the garden.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
