Last year, according to the National Retail Federation’s Mother’s Day Survey, consumers spent $2.4 billion on flowers for Mother’s Day and this number has increased annually since 2008. Since merchandising is key to floral sales, be sure to build eye-catching displays that entice customers to come to the floral department. Here are some other tips:

Watch the weather. If the forecast is sunny, plan for heavier outdoor garden sales, but if it might rain, be prepared for a higher proportion of indoor sales. Have plans in advance for both possibilities. Break the rules and don’t be afraid to merchandise fresh cuts outside and outdoor items inside.  

The average adult intended to spend $19.49 on Mother’s Day in 2015, according to the National Retail Federation. But 24 percent of sales are over $50; while 75 percent are under $49, so make your main focal floral items in this price range to capture sales. Don’t be afraid to bring in upscale gift items for this holiday because people are willing to spend more on Mother’s Day gifts.

Make it easy for your customers to buy the perfect gift for their moms — theme your displays and merchandise by colors. For example, take roses outside of the cooler and build a display by color and price point with potted roses and outdoor garden roses. Moms can enjoy roses today, for the month and for the entire season in one display.

When building displays, use trending materials to create interest and entice customers to look around. Trending right now are natural elements such as birch branches, burlap and moss balls.

The National Retail Federation Mother’s Day Survey found that 80 percent of consumers purchase greeting cards for Mother’s Day. Cross-merchandising or cross-promotions with greeting cards will help drive impulse sales, so add a cart of fresh flowers near the greeting cards and don’t forget the balloons for added sales.

Also, be sure to check local high schools for prom dates in preparation for the big holiday; many fall on this same weekend. Plan to purchase pre-made corsages and boutonnieres, or have simple white flowers wired and ready to go, in order to easily add colored ribbon and wristlets.

Karli Nelson and Denise McPartland are floral merchandisers at the Elite Flower in Miami. They can be contacted at [email protected] or [email protected].