Growing number of consumers seek out Irish-grown flowers

The first week in July sees the return of Irish Flower Week, an annual celebration of the quality and variety of Irish cut flowers, plants and foliage. There is a growing trend amongst Irish consumers to seek locally grown flowers and native foliage, and the Flower Farmers of Ireland have seen their numbers increase by 20% in the last year.

According to the joint chairperson of the Flower Farmers of Ireland group, Anna Hogan, there are now over 80 Irish flower farmers that cultivate and grow flowers and foliage through the season.

Locally, there are three producers registered with the organisation; Rockwood Florals in Doneraile, Square Garden in Kilworth, and Between the Briars in Glanmire. This year to celebrate and highlight the ‘locally grown’ theme, Flower Farmers of Ireland has arranged a number of regional events, details of which will be available via their social media channels.

Sarah Evans, joint chairperson of the groups, says the aim is to encourage shoppers to look for an ‘alternate flower 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.”

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.