Celebrating American Grown Flowers: A Look at the Past, Present, and Future
As July comes to an end, we wrap up American Grown Flowers Month by taking a deep dive into the rich history and current revival of the American cut flower industry. This month has been a celebration of the beauty and significance of locally grown flowers, but understanding the journey of American flower farming adds a deeper appreciation. Watch this inspiring video to start:
The History of the Cut Flower Trade in America
The American cut flower industry has a long and storied history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, flower farming flourished in the United States. Regions like California, Florida, and the Pacific Northwest became hubs for beautiful blooms. American flower farmers supplied the nation with fresh, vibrant flowers, becoming a significant part of the agricultural economy.
The Impact of Reduced Tariffs on Imported Flowers
However, in the 1970s and 1980s, the landscape began to change. The U.S. government reduced tariffs on imported flowers, primarily from South American countries like Colombia and Ecuador. These import tax benefits were meant to incentivize South American farmers to grow flowers instead of cocaine and other drug-related crops. This was a major component of the War on Drugs campaign, that ultimately hurt American growers. These countries offered lower production costs, and the influx of cheaper imported flowers made it difficult for American growers to compete. As a result, many domestic flower farms closed, and the number of American flower farmers dwindled.
The Revival of the American Grown Flower Movement
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the American cut flower industry. Consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and economic benefits of buying locally-grown flowers. The Slow Flowers movement, founded by Debra Prinzing, has played a crucial role in this revival. This movement advocates for sustainable and locally grown flowers, supporting American flower farmers and promoting seasonal blooms. COVID also disrupted the supply chain and paved the way for more local flower farmers, like myself.
Why Buy American Grown Flowers?
Buying American-grown flowers has numerous benefits:
Access to Specialty Crops: Some crops, such as dahlias and garden roses, have a naturally short vase life and can be delicate. These flowers, and others like them, can not be imported. By purchasing from local farms, you can have access to special, and unique blooms. Small farmers often grow new to the market cultivars that aren’t feasible for large-scale growers and wholesalers.
Freshness and Quality: Locally grown flowers are typically fresher and last longer, as they haven't traveled long distances.
Additionally, American Grown Flowers promote:
Supporting Local Economies: Purchasing flowers from local growers helps sustain American farms and communities.
Biodiversity: American flower farmers often grow a wider variety of flowers, supporting biodiversity and offering unique, seasonal blooms.
Environmental Benefits: Local flowers often require less transportation, reducing carbon emissions and the ecological footprint.
As we celebrate the end of American Grown Flowers Month, let's continue to support our local flower farmers and the incredible work they do. By choosing American grown flowers, we're not just buying beautiful blooms; we're investing in a sustainable and vibrant future for the American cut flower industry. Keep blooming, and let's keep the momentum going year-round!
Here are some ways to support your local flower farmer:
Share your favorite American Grown Flowers on social media.
Visit local flower farms and farmer’s markets
When sending birthday, holiday, congratulations, or sympathy arrangements, utilize a florist committed to local blooms. You can find them at https://localflowers.org/find-flowers/
Share this blog with your flower-loving friends
-Nicole Dillon | Ashland, VA | Zone 7b
