Floral Industry Wilting as Virus Concerns End Gatherings, Events

WITH EVERY LARGE GATHERING across the country canceled due to COVID-19, cut-foliage growers had nowhere to send their product, greenery used to decorate and accent bouquets.

- TORY MOORE

The Florida cut-foliage industry is valued at more than $100 million, not including the indirect impacts of the industry. Indirect impacts include providing significant employment, international trade importance, community development and tax revenue around the state, according to UF/IFAS Extension commercial horticulture agent Karen Stauderman.