Context:

The imposition of tariffs by President Trump on imported flowers is causing significant price increases, affecting both florists and consumers in the United States. With 80% of cut flowers imported mainly from Colombia and Ecuador, these tariffs are intensifying the cost of importing, leading to a decline in Mother’s Day spending by 14% as reported by a LendingTree survey. Florists like Allison Krivachek are experiencing a 30% drop in sales, as they are forced to raise prices to account for the tariffs and the inexplicable price surge on flowers, such as roses and lisianthus. Despite these challenges, the floral industry shows resilience by adapting strategies such as ordering earlier, building stronger relationships with growers, and sourcing locally when possible. However, some florists still depend on imports for variety, especially for specific flowers that are not locally available in regions like Iowa.

Dive Deeper:

• President Trump's tariffs have led to increased costs of imported flowers, mainly affecting Colombia and Ecuador, which account for most of the US's flower imports. This has caused significant price hikes in flowers such as roses and lisianthus, with prices doubling or increasing up to 50%.

• The US floral industry is largely dependent on imports, with around 80% of cut flowers being imported. In 2024, the US imported $2.26 billion worth of fresh-cut flowers, with Colombia and Ecuador being the primary exporters.

• Mother's Day spending on flowers has decreased by 14% as consumers are cutting back due to economic concerns and increased prices, as highlighted by a LendingTree survey.

• Florists like Allison Krivachek report a 30% decrease in sales for this Mother's Day compared to previous years, and have had to raise prices on popular arrangements from $100 to $125.

• The Society of American Florists stresses the resilience of the floral industry, noting that florists are adapting by ordering products earlier, building relationships with wholesalers, and planning ahead to manage costs effectively.

• Despite efforts to source locally, some florists still rely on imports for certain flowers that are not available domestically, particularly for wedding arrangements where variety is crucial.

• Consumers are increasingly opting to purchase flowers to create their own arrangements as opposed to buying pre-made ones, due to the higher costs associated with florists' arrangements.