Basics
Carnations and Mini Carnations– In the Carn and Mini Carn world there has been a PERFECT STORM, which we will be sailing through for at least the next 6 to 8 weeks. Production is very limited and prices will remain high. First, most farms had crops that came early for Mothers Day, yielding lower levels of production after the Holiday. Then they began their normal crop renovations, where older plants are removed from beds after the Mothers Day crop and new plantings are made, BUT these plants will not begin to yield production until October. So be sure to plan ahead and have 2nd or 3rd choices available for any party work using Carnations and Mini Carnations.
On the good news side, a new Peach variety called Gorgona, item #65516 will be available next Thursday:
Gyp– Weather continues to hold production back, and farms have started their crop revisions, pulling some plants out of production. Expect pricing to remain higher than usual for a few weeks.
Lilies– We have good production from most farms and demand is decreasing.
Something to note for those who prefer 2 bloom lilies: Most growers are no longer growing for 2 bloom production since the cost to grow a 2 bloom is the same as growing a 3+ bloom. In general the cost of a slightly smaller bulb that produces 2 bloom compared to a larger bulb that produces 3+ is only $.20. The growing costs are exactly the same. The price differential has caused most growers to use larger bulbs aiming towards 3+ production. 2 bloom is now only 10 – 15% of a growers production, due to inferior growth of what should have been 3+ production.
Glads– DVFlora Glads are back. California are running a little tight but all colors are available and they look great. Mexican is still available so we can fill in with them as needed. Local production will start the first week of July.
Mums/Poms– Farms have begun to cut production to match up with reduced demand, so pricing and availability should remain steady for a while.
Roses
Reds– Availability is decent and prices are fairly good. We don’t expect to see much change in the near future.
Colors– Prices remain extremely high and some varieties (Mother of Pearl, Esther, Sweet Eskimo) are extremely hard to get and we will definitely have shortages. But we have lots of other options to substitute. We’ve had a good supply of Sahara and Quicksand which are always in demand during wedding season.
Garden Roses-Availability has been pretty good so we’ve been able to keep up with demand for most varieties. Don’t forget to ask your Sales Rep about the super promotion for Patience from RosaPrima.
Spray Roses– There is very little in the market and prices are extremely high, including Dutch prices. We don’t know when there will be any relief.
Botanicals
Aglaonema– they are running shorter than normal right now. They are very slow growing plants. The 8” pots are very difficult to get, and pricing on the 10” has jumped a lot.
Indoor Blooming– Most are currently arriving at Stage 2 or Stage 3, which means 50% to 75% open.
Tropical Blooming– We are out of most items and won’t be stocking them any more this season. Some items may be available as a special order but minimum quantities may be required- ask your sales rep.
Local Combos– 8” and 12” Terra Pots and 12” Hanging still available. The 14” are sold out.
Novelties
Tulips– California varieties are limited until late June when summer production will kick in. The we should have all the basic colors. Parrots and French Tulips have been limited so we only have a couple varieties. Some Dutch varieties are available via Grower Direct and Dutch Direct but we won’t have any in regular inventory. Virginia has some assorted available. All others are finished.
Snaps– Canada is having a flush on Tall Snaps next week, and the exchange rate is favorable, so check out the great prices. We will have a good selection of solid colors, Assorted Tall, and Assorted Medium.
Ranunculus– These continue to be very limited and we are struggling to fill orders. You should move away from them until they come back in the fall.
Supplies
Flameless Flickering LED Pillar Candles and Ball Candles are on a great sale now. Visit www.dvflora.com or contact your sales rep.
