Picking the perfect bunch: Valentine’s Day bouquets

Buying flowers is a great way to show your appreciation for that special someone.

According the Herbal Essences shampoo and conditioner bottles, 73 percent of men buy flowers on Valentine’s Day. But how do you know what kind of flowers to buy?

“[Besides roses,] I would suggest tulips [or] gerbera daisies — they’re very colorful,” said Jeff Kim, assistant manager at Johnny’s Flowers, located on the Ave near Northeast 42nd Street. “Very cheerful for a lot of people.”

But roses still remain a classic.

“There was a gentlemen that ordered 99 roses; they were all red,” Kim said. “We thought he was a rock star, ... but apparently he really loved his girlfriend.”

A chart in the store lets you know what colors mean to avoid sending the wrong message.

Red means love, passion, respect and courage. Given this, red might not be the color to give to someone you hope to date or have just started dating, as it may come on too strong.

Instead, try yellow, which means friendship and joy, mixed with coral, which represents desire. Lavender also works well and is associated with love at first sight and enchantment.

For your mother, sister or close friend, try dark pink, which means thankfulness, or light pink, which stands for gladness or grace. White, which represents innocence, purity and secrecy, can be combined with any other colors.

Usually roses are $5 a stem, but around Valentine’s Day the prices rise due to increased labor costs and farmers raising their prices, Kim said.

To keep your flowers looking fresh, change the water daily and keep away from direct heat and sunlight, Kim said. Keep them away from fruits, which release ethylene, or C2H4. This is what causes fruits to ripen and plants to wilt.

Johnny’s Flowers also sells vases, plush animals, a large collection of cards and chocolate.

“We’ve got chocolate for those who don’t have a lot to spend and for those who do want to spend a lot,” Kim said.

When celebrating Valentine’s Day, it’s more than how much you spend; it’s the thought behind the flowers, chocolate or diamonds. No matter how much cash you shell out, a kind gesture is always appreciated.