Why do the medal winners in the Olympics get flowers?

Question

How long has that been a tradition?

Answer 1

because the olympics were created to help end injustices towards humanity and to bring about world peace.

it's been a tradition since the original olympics between the greek city-states, when the winners received olive wreathes.  

Answer 2

It must be China's "thing" because Greece gave out the olive wreaths and Australia gave out the Kangaroos.  

Answer 3

they like flowers, and flowers are beautiful  

Answer 4

My best guess is that it's sort of a modernization of the ancient Greek olympics.  Champions at Olympia were given olive wreaths to celebrate their victory.  Nowadays, I'm guessing that the boquets presented to the winners are rooted in the tradition.

Answer 5

longer than you've been alive

Answer 6

It is a gift that the host nation gives.  Most give flowers but some countries give something more representative of their country.  Eg Australia giving boxing kangaroo soft toys.  

Answer 7

Because they smell good.