Our Guide to Sending Flowers to Hospitals or Nursing Homes

Sending flowers to someone in a hospital or nursing home is such a thoughtful way to show you care.

A bright, fresh bouquet can lift their spirits, bring warmth to a sterile environment, and let them know you’re thinking of them. But it’s important to pick the right arrangement – one that’s practical, easy to manage, and brings joy without any hassle.

Here’s our guide to sending flowers that are both beautiful and perfectly suited for hospitals, nursing homes, or anywhere space is limited.

Choose the Right Size & Style

When it comes to flowers for hospitals or nursing homes, size really matters.

Not too big: Space can be tight in hospital rooms, bedside tables, or shared spaces. A big arrangement might feel overwhelming or get in the way.

Not too small: You still want the flowers to make an impact. A tiny bouquet might not feel as special or eye-catching.

A medium-sized arrangement strikes the perfect balance – enough to brighten the room but not take over.

Front-Facing Arrangements:

These are a great choice because you can place them up against a wall when space is tight. All the flowers face the front, meaning nothing is hidden at the back, so every bloom is on display.

Practical Vessels: Think Ahead

One big challenge with sending flowers to hospitals or aged care homes is the lack of vases.

• Box Arrangements: These are ideal. The flowers come in a water source (like floral foam) that only needs a little top-up to keep fresh. No vase? No problem! It’s easy, mess-free, and low-maintenance.
• Vase Arrangements: Another great option is sending flowers already in a vase. This makes it super easy for the recipient – the flowers arrive ready to enjoy. Plus, the vase doubles as a little keepsake.
• Ceramic Pot Arrangements: Like a box arrangement, these are made in floral foam and just need a top-up of water every few days. The beauty of ceramic arrangements is that the pot can be reused for a plant once the flowers fade. It’s a modern and stylish alternative to a traditional box.

At Olivieri’s Florist, we create beautiful box, ceramic, and vase arrangements to make gifting as easy as possible.

Keep the Scent Subtle

While fragrant flowers can be lovely, strong scents aren’t always a good idea in hospitals or nursing homes. Some people might be sensitive to fragrances, and medical environments usually prefer neutral or mild-smelling flowers.

Here are some great low-scent options:

• Roses (without heavy fragrance)
• Lisianthus
• Gerberas
• Tiger Lily
• Chrysanthemums
• Carnations
• Natives

These flowers are not only long-lasting and beautiful but also gentle on the senses.

Choose Cheerful, Uplifting Colours

Colour has the power to make someone’s day brighter. While you can always personalise the colours to the recipient’s taste, bright and happy tones are usually a safe bet.

Think sunny yellows, fresh whites, vibrant oranges, and bright pinks – colours that feel warm, positive, and full of life.

If you know their favourite colour, that’s even better! A bouquet in their favourite shades shows you’ve put extra thought into their gift.

Our Top Picks for Hospital or Nursing Home Gifts

Here are a few ideas that work beautifully in these settings:

• Vase Arrangement: Thoughtfully designed blooms in a reusable vase, perfect for bedside tables or small spaces.
• Long-Lasting Blooms: Australian natives are a great choice – they stay fresh and vibrant for days.
• Flowering Plants: Peace lilies or orchids are long-lasting and can be taken home to enjoy for months.
• Florist’s Choice Bright Box Arrangement: A cheerful mix of fresh flowers in a water-filled box – no vase needed and easy to top up.

Practical Tips to Keep in Mind

Here are a few quick tips to make sure your flowers are as thoughtful and practical as possible:

• Check hospital policies: Some hospitals have rules about flowers, especially in ICUs. A quick call ahead will save you any trouble.
• Choose long-lasting flowers: Pick blooms like roses, chrysanthemums, or carnations that will stay fresh and cheerful for longer.
• Timing is key: Wait until the patient has been admitted to a ward before sending flowers. Delivering them too early can lead to confusion if they’re not assigned a bed yet.
• Delivery details matter: Include the recipient’s name, room number, and any special instructions. Double-check that they haven’t been discharged earlier than expected – it happens more often than you’d think!

Thoughtful, Easy, and Full of Joy

Sending flowers is such a simple yet powerful way to show someone you care. By choosing an arrangement that’s the right size, easy to manage, and full of bright colours, you’re giving a gift that will brighten their day – and the days to come.

At Olivieri’s Florist, we’re here to help you choose the perfect flowers for any occasion. Whether you’re sending blooms to a hospital, nursing home, or someone’s home, we’ll make sure your arrangement is beautiful, practical, and delivered with care.

Ready to brighten someone’s day?

Explore our range of box and vase arrangements online or give us a call – we’d love to help you send something special.