Ring the ward first
Hospital rules vary by ward and change over time. Units caring for patients with weakened immune systems, intensive care, neonatal wards and some surgical units often do not accept flowers at all, because of infection and allergy risk. The hospitals in Melbourne's west, including Footscray, Sunshine and Williamstown, each set their own ward-by-ward rules, so a short call to the ward is always worth it.
If flowers are not allowed, a card, a balloon-free gift or a potted plant for home can be better ways to say the same thing.
What to choose
- Compact arrangements in a box or a low vase. Bedside space is small and there is no room for a tall bouquet.
- Mild-scented flowers. Roses, alstroemeria, gerberas and chrysanthemums have little scent. Strongly scented lilies, stocks and hyacinths can be unwelcome in a shared room.
- Arrangements that need no water changes. A box arrangement is easy for busy nurses and for a patient who cannot reach a sink.
Getting the delivery right
Put the patient's full name, the ward and the room or bed number in the delivery notes, and a phone number for the recipient. If you can, order to arrive within visiting hours so the flowers go to the patient and not to a reception desk. If you are unsure of the ward, ring the hospital switchboard and ask which ward the patient is in.
Questions we get asked
Do hospitals accept flower deliveries?
Most general wards do, but intensive care, oncology, neonatal and some other units refuse flowers. Check with the ward before you order.
What should I send if the ward does not allow flowers?
A written card, a small gift, a potted plant to take home, or flowers sent to the patient's home for when they are discharged.
From the shop
We deliver across Highpoint, Maribyrnong & Melbourne's Western Suburbs, same day when you order by 1pm. Delivery areas and fees.