If a trip to the florist may brighten the day of the recipient, it may also empty your pocket book. Here's how can you avoid being taken to the cleaners on your next trip to the florist.

The variety of flower is one factor that affects the price of a floral arrangement. Some flowers are so exotic or difficult to grow that they simply come with a very high price tag. Less expensive flowers can be very effective and should certainly not be overlooked as an option. The carnation is one of the common florist choices that costs less. In some cases, you can get twenty long stemmed carnations as a flower bouquet (without a vase) for under $30. Daisies are another of the less expensive florist choices and bring a spot of happy sunshine into a room.

Proper care of flower arrangements, both at the florist and in the delivery vehicle, will help you get the best value from your floral dollars. The first rule of cut flower care is to keep them refrigerated until they are to be used. The bouquet will not be as long lasting if it has been allowed to stand at room temperature, such as at a roadside stand, for a great deal of time before you get them.

Make certain you remove the leaves that would be under the level of the water when you'll put the bouquet into the vase. The leaves will decay if left on, and your whole bouquet will take on an unpleasant odor. Along the same line, change the water if it starts to look a little cloudy. Lukewarm water is best. Furthermore, be sure to use the floral food included with the bouquet. If it is not included with your arrangement, it can be purchased for less than a dollar at the florist. Trimming the bottom inch of stem every day or two will also help your arrangements last longer. By the way, stems should be cut at an angle to allow for them to be able to 'drink' best.

Choosing individual blossoms to make the arrangement yourself is a way to save money at the florist shop. For that purpose, the Peruvian Lily (aelstroemeria) is long lasting and available in a variety of bright colors, including oranges, pinks, and reds, but only costs about two dollars each. A classic favorite are cut tulips that run about two dollars and fifty cents per long-stemmed bloom.

Another way to save at the florist shop is to ask about flowers that are starting to get a little bit old. This might be a way to enjoy one of the more exotic (read "expensive"!) flowers for a few days. In many cases a florist will discount these, and they will still give a few days of delight for a small price.

For home decor, there are two inexpensive options. One is to gather wildflower bouquets and the other one is to grow your own flowering potted plants. These options save on costs at the florist. (In fact-fire the florist!) Of the flowering plants, African violets are well-known and consistent pleasers. They seem to thrive on neglect, blossoming out in multiple blooms when you least expect it. Some have a delicate white ruffle outlining each petal. Others are so sparkly they glisten like sugar-coated candies. Don't miss these beauties.

Wildflower bouquets are very popular in country decorating. At certain times of year, daisies and various sunflowers can be found blanketing the countryside. Be sure to have the landowner's permission, or that the flowers are legal to pick before you make your own bouquet (There are endangered and protected varieties, just like animals!). Be your own florist by arranging these natural wonders in old buckets, canning jars, antique pitchers, or other country-style containers.

As you can see, the sky is the limit when you want to surround yourself with beautiful flowers.

From growing your own flowers to getting a deal at your local florist, the possibilities are endless.