The number of growers registered with the Flower Farmers of Ireland organisation has increased by 20% within the last twelve months, driven by a growing trend for Irish consumers to seek locally grown flowers and foliage for special occasions.
According to Flower Farmers of Ireland group joint chairperson Anna Hogan, there are now over 80 flower farmers that cultivate and grow flowers and foliage through the season.
“Irish flower farmers have a range of unique flowers available through the year. Every year our flower farmers are testing the market with more varieties of flowers that are suitable for a range of occasions. A whole new world of flowers is opening up to our customers and, because the flowers are seasonal, they are only available for a certain time, so our customers travel with us through the season," Ms Hogan stated.
From July 3-10, the organisation is running Irish Flower Week, an annual celebration of the quality and variety of Irish cut flowers, plants and foliage.
This year to celebrate and highlight the 'locally grown' theme, the group has arranged a number of regional events. Check out our social media channels @flowerfarmersireland to catch up with these flowery events. For example, the South East Flower farmers will be hosting a pop-up shop in the Gorey area as part of the event. The Southern flower farmers will be in the Grainstore in Ballymaloe with lots of lovely Irish flowers.
“Look out for some innovative and creative ways we are planning on showcasing our flowers.
“Our aim is to drive awareness of the Irish Flower growing movement and to encourage consumers to seek out our members for an alternative floral experience. We want customers to appreciate the vast range and scope of flowers. We are seeing increased interest from consumers around sustainable practices, particularly when organising weddings, corporate events and gifting, reflecting the world wide 'Slow Flower Revolution'. Flower Farmers of Ireland are proud supporters of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan and flower farms are havens for wildlife," Sarah Evans, joint chairperson, said.
The war in Ukraine has struck a chord with Flower Farmers of Ireland growers. A number of members are ‘Growing Sunflowers for Ukraine’, with all proceeds going to the Irish Red Cross.
To find your local Flower Farmers of Ireland member, see www.flowerfarmersofireland.ie/
