Where to Donate Used Flower Bouquets
Giving used flower bouquets a new home can brighten someone’s day, and cut down on waste. Whether your blooms come from a wedding or special occasion, many places happily accept them.
Your flowers can spread more joy instead of heading straight to the bin. Here’s where you can donate used flower bouquets.
Many flowers (including lilies & delphiniums) are unsafe near animals, so only gift such flowers to pet-free homes. Read our post on pet-friendly gardens.
Never face indoor foliage to face outdoor gardens, to help prevent birds flying into windows.
- London’s Floral Angels (London) delivers donated bouquets to hospices, care homes and shelters within the community, working from New Covent Garden Flower Market.
- The Flower Bank works with young offenders, to repurpose donated flowers to care homes and local community places.
Hospitals and Hospices
Hospitals and hospices often welcome used flower bouquets, as fresh flowers cheer up patients and visitors. Many wards and lobbies display flowers to lift spirits.
When considering a donation, call ahead to confirm their policy. Some places have restrictions due to allergies or infection control, but many will accept flowers if they’re in good condition.
Care Homes and Retirement Communities
Care homes and retirement communities love receiving flower donations. Residents enjoy the sight and scent of fresh flowers, which help make communal spaces feel more like home.
Arrange with staff to deliver the bouquets, or ask if volunteers can help distribute them. Leftover event flowers or bouquets from home can quickly brighten the week for older adults.
Charities and Community Organisations
Charities and local community groups often distribute donated bouquets to people facing difficult circumstances. Women’s shelters, support groups, and family charities value these gifts, and some run regular flower donation schemes. C
heck for local groups with a focus on social support, as they often partner with volunteers to deliver flowers where they’re needed most.
Funeral Homes
Funeral homes sometimes accept flowers to use at services, especially if the arrangements are tasteful and well-kept. Donated bouquets can be shared with families who can’t afford flowers or used to decorate memorial spaces.
Call ahead to see if your local funeral director or crematorium will take gently used flowers, as not all will have the same policy.
Churches and Places of Worship
Many churches and places of worship accept used flower bouquets for services, altars, or community events. Flowers help enhance the atmosphere and are often shared with members of the congregation who are ill or house-bound.
Speak to the church office or a community minister to arrange a drop-off.
Supported Housing Accommodation
Spaces that house those in supported living or temporary accommodation may welcome donated bouquets. Flowers in shared kitchens, lounges, or offices bring a sense of calm and dignity to people rebuilding their lives.
Reach out to local housing support charities or council offices to ask about flower donations.
Local Schools and Nurseries
Some schools and nurseries use donated flowers for art projects or to teach children about nature. Teachers set up bouquets in classrooms to create a cheerful setting.
While not every school will accept them, primary schools and early years centres may appreciate the chance to use leftover blooms creatively.
Florists’ Recycling Programmes
Check if your local florist runs a recycling or repurposing scheme for flowers. Some florists collect used bouquets and arrange to donate them on your behalf.
They may deliver to care homes, hospitals, or community centres, saving you time and reaching more people.
Homeless Shelters
Homeless shelters occasionally accept flower donations for communal dining rooms or social spaces. Flowers can add a bit of warmth and comfort to temporary living environments.
Call ahead to see if there’s a need and check if staff have any specific requirements, such as vases or safe storage.
