sexes, and here is what they said: THE MALE VIEWPOINT Do they? Women have a soft spot for flowers. Every time they pass a flower garden they say, "Oh, look at the pretty flowers.'' Guys aren't into all that. All women like pretty colours and things that are feminine. I believe women like to get flowers so they can show other women they have been thought of and are special to somebody.

Women have been taught to expect things at certain times throughout the year.

But there's a new breed of woman now -- they like to get flowers, but they prefer quality time.

I just don't understand why. My girlfriend knows just when she wants flowers -- she even reminds me to get them, so they're no surprise. Yet when I give them to her she acts like they're a big surprise! You come to realise flowers are the best weapon in your arsenal.

They like the idea of men spending $8 or $9 per rose.

I guess it's because it's a traditional sign of romance.

Women like flowers and a good dinner.

I really don't understand the tremendous significance behind flowers. I think it's all propaganda. It's mainly commercial campaigning that makes women think flowers are special things.

Because they smell pretty and they're romantic. But I think women like perfume and money better.

A lot of women like to have flowers on their desks because they're like a trophy.

Women are made to believe that they like flowers because advertising is geared towards them. If you grow up in a society where you are bombarded with what you are supposed to have and not supposed to have, that's how women come to expect flowers.

I have no idea. I'm sure it's something genetic. It's an irritating trait, but genetic engineering is promising all sorts of wonderful new developments, so maybe it will be bred out of them.

Women love flowers because ...

From Page 32 Look, if Freud couldn't figure out what women want in 40 years of psychoanalysis, it's certainly beyond my capabilities to even try.

THE FEMALE VIEWPOINT There is something so romantic about flowers. They are a tribute. It's so theatrical to get flowers. I love sweeping out of the office with flowers in my arms.

I'd rather get flowers -- any kind, any amount -- than anything else in the world. Anything. The gesture is very special, whoever makes it. Receiving flowers is magical. You feel so cherished. Flowers are pretty, romantic and feminine. Who cares if they don't last -- the memories certainly do.

I'd like flowers so long as they were sent by the man whom I wanted them to be sent by! But I'd rather have something that showed me he really knew me and had taken a lot of thought. The language of flowers can be misleading.

If men only realised the mileage they could get from even a simple bunch of flowers they'd send them every day! Romance is what keeps all relationships alive, and there's nothing more romantic than flowers.

I love flowers -- when they're completely spontaneous. There's nothing like having flowers sent to you completely out of the blue. The problem with Valentine's is that they're expected, and if you don't get them you end up disappointed. Flowers are not only beautiful and pleasant to look at but they're an extravagance. I love red roses because they are a symbol of certain emotions.

I love flowers because they're beautiful and make you feel special. When I take them home and put them in the house, oh, the feeling! If I didn't get flowers I'd buy them myself.

I adore flowers because they are the most romantic, naturally beautiful gift anyone can give.

FLOWERS FOR ME? -- Mr. Donald Featherstone is pleasantly surprised by his wife, Joyce, who shows her love and appreciation for him with a beautiful vase of flowers. Mr. Featherstone is one of those men who do not mind receiving the gift that most women yearn for on Valentine's Day and throughout the year.

SEALED WITH A KISS -- Mr. Donald Featherstone thanks his wife of many years, Joyce, for an unexpected, early Valentine's gift.