Flowers remain the symbol of love and happiness, especially on Valentine’s Day
The ornamental horticulture sector successfully focuses on innovation and sustainability
In recent days, leading up to Valentine’s Day, 226 million flowers have been traded through the Royal FloraHolland platform, of which 147 million are roses. Flowers symbolize love and happiness in a person's life, which is something that must continue to be true for future generations. This is why the sector is actively focusing on innovation and sustainability. The sector aims for all flower growers to be certified, ensuring transparency regarding their sustainability practices.
Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this year, making the busiest trading day the Monday before. This leads to peak activity in the sector. Traditionally, flowers are very popular as a symbol of love on Valentine’s Day. Research by Cloud Army Ltd. shows that giving and receiving flowers brings joy, connection, and positive feelings.
Sustainable cultivation
To offer the best quality flowers and plants, growers protect their crops from diseases and pests. More and more, they are focusing on green solutions. Leading Dutch growers aim to use almost no non-organic substances by 2030. Data from the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) shows that 90% of flower growers are already using organic pest controls—such as predatory mites, parasitic wasps, hoverflies, fungi, and other natural controls—to manage diseases and pests. In this way, the ornamental horticulture sector is successfully focusing on innovation and sustainability.
Decrease in pesticide use
Over the past five years, a sharp decline in the use of environmentally harmful pesticides by growers in Europe and Africa has been observed. This information comes from MPS, the certification organization aimed at making the sector sustainable through transparency and measurability. (source: MPS)
Strict European guidelines for flowers
In addition to innovations, strict European guidelines ensure that both domestic and imported flowers meet high sustainability standards. Pesticides and their active substances are assessed for safety to humans, animals, and the environment. First at the European level, and upon approval, the member states—such as the Ctgb (College for the approval of plant protection products and biocides) in the Netherlands—evaluate the final product and decide whether to permit it. The European Commission only approves an active substance after a thorough and comprehensive scientific assessment to ensure the substance is safe for use. Information about approved substances and permitted means is generally reviewed every ten years based on the latest scientific insights. In Africa, different pests and diseases exist than in Europe. The climate conditions there are also entirely different. Pest control may require different active substances or compositions.
Alongside international efforts to reduce chemical pest control, strict guidelines apply in Europe for the import of flowers. Every flower available in stores complies with these regulations. Consumers can casually enjoy a beautiful bouquet with peace of mind.
