Where do the flowers come from?
 

Most flowers come out of the ground, they start low and come up. But seriously, the greater majority of the flowers sold on the florist market come direct from the "flower growers"... What seems surprising is the fact that approximately 90% of all cut flowers sold on the American market are imported.

True, California is America's top cut flower producer, with Florida second for flowers and foliages. But, perhaps frustrating for them, their quality fresh flower production is always struggling to keep up with foreign competition.

Flowers are purchased regularly from local wholesalers and shops, -- and it's rather fascinating, should you consider;  that those flowers which might be for  your sweetheart, have traveled here from lands, far far away... 

Once upon a time... about a generation ago, most American florist shops obtained their products from a myriad of flower growers throughout the western and southern United States, with a lesser degree of product from Holland. But, just as America's taste in flowers has evolved; from primarily only traditional mums and carnations to a more unique taste for exotic and specialty blooms (See our Modern Flowers) , so has the flowers place of origin been changing.

Columbia is the dominant producer of U.S. cut flowers, with roses, carnations, spray chrysanthemums and Alstroemeria among its top crops.
Ecuador takes a close second with their crops of roses, Delphiniums, asters, Gypsophila (baby's breath), and mixed bouquets. . Both countries have exceptional climates for commercial growing, and both have successfully become established in high production of the most popular products. Together, these two countries accounted for 90% to 98% of all roses, carnations, chrysanthemums sold in the U.S. last year.

And those aren't the only countries competing for America's love of flowers.
Holland has a vast wealth of cut flowers readily available in the U.S. as well.
Then there's the Netherlands,   especially with Tulips exports, accounting for nearly 95% of all tulip imports. They're also big on roses, lilies, Gerberas, Freesias, snapdragons, and orchids.

Canada has in recent years begun tapping into the market, currently exporting nearly 5 million stems and bunches here.  Mexico, Costa Rica, Chile, Thailand and Hawaii are gradually on the rise as flower producing nations.

...And that's where flowers come from!
 

So, next time you order someone a bouquet of flowers, a vase of tulips, an exotic orchid, or even a single red rose... consider the fact that those delicate blossoms most likely traveled half way around the globe just so you might make your sweetie smile.  ;- )