Press release:

Love is in the air and florists are busy filling Valentine’s Day orders, but many consumers have learned the hard way that everything doesn’t always come up roses.

In 2012, florists were among the most complained about service categories on Angie’s List. Most complaints stemmed from the quality of the flowers as well as issues with delivery.

Angie’s List surveyed highly rated florists for advice on placing an order for delivery:

Act now: Don’t wait until the last minute to place your order for flowers. Give the florist plenty of time because Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for any florist.

Buy local: If there is a reputable florist in your area, buy directly from them when you can and think beyond the roses. Your florist can help you find the freshest blooms and find something a little less traditional, too. National companies take your order and pass it along to a local florist to fulfill the order anyway. You’ll have better luck with a correction if something goes wrong.

Include delivery information: The more information you are able to provide about the recipient, the less likely there will be a delivery mishap. Include both home and cell phone numbers and the correct address. If it’s a business, will the delivery person be stopped at the front door? Offer any access information you know about to the delivery driver.

Take advantage of the freshness guarantee: Flowers are a perishable product, and depending on the flower, it will have a life span from 2 to 10 days. If the flowers delivered are not in good condition, call the florist right away (less than 24 hours) so they can correct the problem.

Care for the special delivery: Keep them in a cool place and change water regularly. Cut the stems back about an inch with a knife or gardening clippers every other day as you change the water.