The UK’s cut flower industry stands at a crossroads. A new report by flower farmer and campaigner Roisin Taylor NSch 2023 explores the sector’s struggle against climate change. Titled Revival and Survival: Is the British Cut Flower Industry Prepared for a 2-Degree Warming World?, the study highlights how rising temperatures, erratic weather, and financial pressures threaten local growers.
With only 10% of the UK’s £2.2 billion fresh flower market sourced domestically, the industry faces an uphill battle. Taylor’s findings stress that adaptation is crucial, yet little is being done beyond reducing emissions. The real question remains: Can the UK’s flower sector survive—and even thrive—under these conditions?
© Roisin Taylor at the Nuffield Farming Conference
Climate Change Threatens UK Flower Growers
The global flower trade, worth $9.6 billion, has long overshadowed UK growers. Dutch flower markets dominate with competitive pricing, making it tough for British florists and horticulturists to keep up. Now, climate change adds another layer of uncertainty.
A 2-degree rise in global temperatures means more pests, unpredictable weather, and water shortages. While many industries focus on cutting emissions, Taylor argues that the conversation must shift to resilience.
Key challenges facing UK flower growers include:
- Unpredictable climate extremes: Floods, heatwaves, and droughts threaten crops.
- Pest and disease outbreaks: Warmer temperatures create ideal conditions for infestations.
- High energy costs: Rising fuel and electricity prices make greenhouse operations costly.
- Lack of government support: Few incentives exist for sustainable farming practices.
A Voice in Charge Needed
Despite these hurdles, opportunities exist. Taylor’s research highlights how other countries build climate resilience through knowledge-sharing and strong industry support. She suggests the UK must take similar action.
However, a major issue remains—there is no unified voice leading the charge. Financial pressures and market competition have left UK growers isolated. Taylor stresses the need for a dedicated floriculture body to push for policy changes, funding, and research.
Without collective action, British flower growers risk falling further behind. Now is the time for industry leaders, policymakers, and farmers to collaborate. The future of UK floriculture depends on it.
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