8 unique green alternatives to cut flowers

Life

5. An Herb Garden

Another herbs-for-flowers swap, because having a wee garden of herbs on the kitchen windowsill is such a gift. Little flourishes of flavor are always on hand and waste is reduced when you can snip a few leaves rather than buying a whole bunch. Any cute pot will do – this Scandinavian mod number from Sagaform is nice for starters. (Sagaform Herb Pot, $52)

6. Forced Bulbs

I have an amaryllis bulb purchased in early November that bloomed twice and then shot up a quartet of green stalks that are a statement bouquet all on their own. Almost three months of flowers/greenery for one bulb! Bulbs are wonderful – they start as a sprout and grow into an incredible bloom (or several, apparently), lasting much longer than a bunch of stems. And when all is said and done, some bulbs can be planted in the garden or forced again; the others are a small addition to the compost bin.

7. Flowering Bonsai

A little tree. A little tree that flowers. For the Valentine looking for a new hobby, these beautiful flowering trees can be ordered with the complete kit to get started in the art of bonsai.

8. Moss ball and chain

This may be stretch if you're love is expecting flowers, but there's something wonderful about combining some greenery with a piece of jewelry – and these moss-filled globes feel like they hold special secrets. (Some Magic, $18.50)