Mother’s Day is a time when many of us express our love and appreciation with a beautiful bouquet. However, this year, you might notice that those flowers come with a higher price tag. Recent tariffs introduced by President Trump are affecting the floral industry, leading to increased costs for both florists and consumers.
Why are flower prices increasing for Mother’s Day?
The price increase is because of the 10% baseline tariff on all U.S. imports, which includes cut flowers. Since some 80% of cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported, mainly from Colombia or Ecuador, these tariffs have truly become cost-inflators.
Florists face a dilemma: either absorb the extra costs or pass them on to customers. For example, Kara Acri of Scarlet Begonia’s in Covington, Kentucky, has merchants charge a 10% service fee to cover the increased expenses but hopes to remove this fee should tariff rollbacks be realized.
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How are local flower growers affected by the tariffs?
Domestic flower growers are still affected by these tariffs. Most of the bulb and supplies are imported for their flower cultivation. Her Moonshot Farm, in New Jersey, is owned by Rebecca Kutzer-Rice, who stated that tariffs may cost her small business anywhere between $40,000 to $50,000 per year, nearly equivalent to the salary of an additional employee.
Added stress is placed on these small farms already working on thin margins. Because of this increased cost, the small farms are confronted with the possibility of either raising their prices or restricting their offerings, both of which would affect the number and variety of flowers that consumers can get.
What alternatives are available for Mother’s Day gifts?
Given the rising costs of traditional bouquets, you might consider alternative gifts that are less affected by tariffs:
- Potted plants: These are often grown locally and are not subject to import tariffs. They also last longer than cut flowers, providing a lasting reminder of your appreciation.
- Perennials: These plants bloom year after year, offering a gift that keeps on giving. Chris McKeown of Bloomin Garden Centre suggests that perennials provide the best value for a Mother’s Day gift .
- Local flowers: Purchasing flowers from local growers or farmers’ markets supports the local economy and may offer fresher, more unique selections.
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How can consumers navigate the increased flower prices?
If you still want to give a bouquet, there are alternatives to contain the higher prices:
- Order ahead: Ordering ahead of time can prevent last-minute price hikes and guarantee availability.
- Be adaptable: Being willing to accept alternative flower varieties or arrangements can enable florists to utilize more affordable alternatives without sacrificing aesthetics.
- Let your florist know your budget: Inform your florist of your budget. They can usually design stunning arrangements within your budgetary limits.
While the tariffs have presented some challenges, with some forward planning and flexibility, you can still find meaningful ways to mark Mother’s Day.
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