A Blooming Business
The demand for flowers in Australia is certainly evergreen, but most consumers don’t understand the cut flower industry; most of us simply don’t know how or where the flowers we buy come from. What we do know is that flowers are beautiful, important to us, and unfortunately, in Australia, an expensive luxury item. There is a reason cut flowers are expensive, and part of that is largely due to consumer buying decisions.
In 2022-2023 Australia imported $103 million worth of cut flowers and exported $9.3 million. Despite our climate supporting the growth of a wide variety of fresh flowers, both native and non-native. The demand for flowers in Australia is certainly evergreen, but most consumers don’t understand the cut flower industry; most of us simply don’t know how or where the flowers we buy come from. Flowers are beautiful, important to us, and unfortunately, in Australia, an expensive luxury item. There is a reason cut flowers are expensive, and part of that is largely due to consumer buying decisions.
Source: Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook
A Few Facts on Australia's Cut Flower Imports:
Diverse demands from consumers drive the import volumes of cut flowers; roses are the most frequently imported flower, followed by orchids and carnations.
Australia imports flowers from approximately 19 countries: Malaysia, Colombia, Singapore, Ecuador, Thailand, India, China, Vietnam, New Zealand, South Africa, Mauritius, the Netherlands, Taiwan, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Israel, and Zimbabwe.
In a study from March 2018 to February 2019, 50% of imported flowers were found to contain living pests. The types of pests found on cut flowers include beetles, flies, bugs, mites, aphids, thrips, cockroaches, fungus gnats, millipedes, earwigs, and spiders, to name a few.
Imported flowers can also contain organisms, contaminating pests that can cause environmental damage and can transmit diseases to humans and animals.
Not all countries supplying to Australia have strong farming practices. In March 2018, Australia had to increase measures to ensure cut flowers are treated before being sent to Australia.
Measures for controlling pests on cut flowers involve chemicals. In fact, according to import flower guidelines, Glyphosate and Methyl bromide fumigation are used to treat flowers prior to shipping.
Sources: Department of Agriculture - Final Reports Part 1 and Department of Agriculture - Managing pests in imported cut flowers and foliage
Cut flowers a luxury item:
The supply chain for imported cut flowers increases the cost to you. Cut flower production is a very labour intensive process, very part of the supply chain involves people time and people are expensive! The supply chain for cut flower imports includes transport costs , import and custom costs. Australia has one of the best biosecurity systems in the world, which enable us to remain free from serious the world’s most severe pests and diseases, however, this all increase the cost and quality of your flowers.
Source: Department of Agriculture - Managing pests in imported cut flowers and foliage
Cut flowers supply chain
Nursery and input supplies to the grower
The grower
Export and freight provider (transport costs)
Import and customs (no pests, please)
Auction or Wholesale
Florist to consumer or Florist to retailer
Retailer to consumer Sources: Department of Agriculture - Import Guidelines
An Alternative to Cut Flower Imports:
Become informed, ask your florist to supply Australia grown flowers. As an alternative, if you are lucky enough too have a local flower farm purchase direct.
Buying directly from a flower farm can be a rewarding experience, offering several advantages over purchasing flowers from traditional retailers. Here are some reasons why buying direct from a flower farm can be beneficial:
Freshness and Quality: Buying directly from farms ensures that you receive the freshest flowers possible. By cutting out middlemen and long supply chains, you can be assured of the quality and longevity of the blooms.
Wide Variety: Farms often offer a wide variety of flowers, including seasonal and exotic blooms that may not be readily available in local markets. This allows you to create unique and stunning floral arrangements.
Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing flowers directly from farms can be more cost-effective compared to buying from retailers. This is especially beneficial for businesses that require large quantities of flowers for events or daily operations.
Supporting Local Growers: Buying directly from farms supports local growers and the Australian flower industry. It promotes sustainability and helps ensure the continued availability of locally grown flowers.
Customization and Personalisation: Farms may offer customization options, allowing you to tailor your order to suit your specific needs. Whether you need a specific color scheme or a particular flower variety, farms can often accommodate your requests and grow specially for you.
Optional for sustainability and organic: Many flower farms are adopting organic and sustainable farming methods, meaning your flowers are free from their “dip before ship” process, providing more peace of mind for you.
Conclusion:
Australia's cut flower import market provides a diverse range of blooms to satisfy the country's floral needs. However, this is not risk-free or a cost-effective way to have access to beautiful flowers. Supporting your local flower farmer and buying directly offer numerous benefits, including freshness, quality, and cost. Whether you're a florist, event planner, or simply a flower lover, exploring the option of buying directly from farms can elevate your floral experience and contribute to the flourishing Australian flower industry.
We would like to thank all our customers and especially our members. We know you love having access to seasonal fresh flowers. We value you all and truly appreciate your support. We are committed to you and to continuing to provide the best quality and affordability we can offer.
Source links
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/before/prepare/treatment-outside-australia
https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/import/goods/plant-products/cut-flowers-foliage/invertebrate-pest-management#example-of-a-systems-approach
https://www.horticulture.com.au/growers/help-your-business-grow/research-reports-publications-fact-sheets-and-more/australian-horticulture-statistics-handbook/?epieditmode=false