Every June, California Grown Flowers Month, followed by American Flowers Month in July, gives us a reason to stop and smell the roses—or in this case, the orchids. As the #1 state in farming output, California is a powerhouse of agricultural excellence, and our flowers are no exception. This month is all about recognizing the growers who bring beauty into our homes while pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability.

One standout is Westerlay Orchids, nestled along the coast in Carpinteria, California. For over two decades, Westerlay has been producing exquisite, long-lasting phalaenopsis orchids that brighten homes across the western U.S. and Canada. With over four million plants shipped annually, they’ve become a symbol of both aesthetic elegance and emotional connection.

Orchids That Do More Than Bloom

Westerlay Orchids are more than pretty faces. These blooms are surprisingly hardy, capable of reblooming with minimal care and lasting several months or more. Their symmetrical design offers a visual balance that’s not just calming—it’s therapeutic. Studies show that flowers can boost happiness, reduce stress, and support emotional well-being. In short, orchid care is a quiet act of self-care.

But orchids also connect us. Whether it’s a daughter gifting one to her mom or a friend offering comfort, these plants carry emotional weight. Each bloom becomes a living reminder of the bond between giver and receiver, quietly thriving in a corner of a room or a sunny windowsill.

Rooted in Heritage, Growing with Purpose

Westerlay Orchid’s story is as rich and diverse as its flowers. President Toine Overgaag grew up surrounded by horticulture. His father Joop, a Dutch immigrant, raised tomatoes and chrysanthemums in the Netherlands before moving his family to Carpinteria in 1978. Joop built the original greenhouses by hand, using salvaged oil pipes from local industry. That DIY spirit lives on in Toine, who’s now leading the company with a keen eye on sustainability.

Under Toine’s leadership, Westerlay has reduced its carbon footprint by 43% from 2018 to 2022, thanks to innovations like solar panels, energy curtains, and an irrigation recycling program. This year, the company is taking it a step further with the installation of custom-designed dehumidifiers, projected to reduce natural gas consumption by up to 20%.

Celebrating the Bloom with Westerlay Orchids

California Grown Flowers Month isn’t just about admiring pretty petals—it’s about celebrating the people and practices behind the bloom. Westerlay Orchids stands as a shining example of what’s possible when tradition meets technology, and when beauty is grown with care for the planet.

So no matter what the occasion is (or just because), consider bringing home an orchid. Not only are you supporting California’s flower growers, but you’re also choosing a bloom that brings wellness, connection, and a whole lot of quiet joy.

Because in the Golden State, even our flowers are grown with heart.

Curious About California Grown Flowers?

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BE SURE TO SHARE YOUR CALIFORNIA FLOWERS WITH US BY SNAPPING A PIC AND TAGGING US ON SOCIAL USING #CAGROWN.

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This article was written by Alison Needham, @agirl_defloured, photos used with permission from Westerlay Orchids.