Because of this, buying flowers is almost always more a question of price rather than availability. When paying a visit to someone's home, one is expected to take flowers for the lady of the house. Polish homes usually have a stock of spare vases ready to cater for such welcome surprises. Arrivals, goodbyes, school ceremonies, weddings, examination success, namedays, theatrical performances, official functions and celebrations are not considered proper events without flowers. Red roses carry the same potent symbol of love and affection as in other countries and blooms are always given in odd numbers.
Florists are everywhere in shops, kiosks and on the pavement.
Ones known for their bouquet-making will attract people from far afield. On certain day such as Valentines day and Graduation days, supplies of flowers are quickly depleted with disappointed purchasers having to resort to lesser tokens.