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COMMENT FROM READER (Regarding Organic Bytes Issue #27): I love OB, but I can't afford to spend $50 for a dozen organic roses. I'm sure many of your subscribers are, like me, living on a little. Who can afford such things? Maybe you should urge folks to get flowers from their local farmers market or to barter with flower-growing neighbors or to give potted plants instead.

OCA RESPONSE:

Thanks for this great input. For those looking for organic flowers, check out

http://alerts.organicconsumers.org/trk/click?ref=zqtbkk3um_1-10bx321bx3180149&. They sell only USDA organic certified flowers, guarantee overnight delivery anywhere in the U.S., and have some options for under $40. If your budget is limited, another option, in addition to the excellent ideas recommended by our reader, is to ask your local shop for flowers that are Florverde Certified (see below for more information). We've also put together a buying guide to help you find Fair Trade and organic chocolate and wine.

http://www.organicconsumers.org/valentines/index.cfm#buyguide Of course, the greatest gift you can give your beloved this Valentines is Love, which we can all afford.