Flower farms flourish as buyers favour homegrown
Flower farms in south-west England are experiencing a surge in popularity as consumers increasingly prioritize locally grown, sustainable products. Industry experts note that while the sector is growing, the UK still relies heavily on imported flowers, presenting a significant opportunity for domestic expansion.
Why it matters
The growth of local flower farming supports rural economies and promotes sustainable land use, potentially reducing the UK's high dependence on imported floral products.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Helen Munro Berry South West BBC Florence and James Kennedy say their flower farm has grown over recent years Rising demand for homegrown cut flowers has prompted a proliferation of businesses in south-west England.
Trade body Flowers from the Farm said about 240 of its 1,100 members were from Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, in a sector it estimated brought £30m a year to the UK economy.
Georgie Newbery, who represents the organisation, said there had been a "huge increase in demand for locally grown flowers".
"The customer has really woken up to this fact. They want high quality and they want sustainability."
Devon Chamber of Commerce said flower farms played an important role in "supporting both local enterprise and sustainable land use".
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