Feb 21 β€’ 10:03 UTC πŸ‡±πŸ‡» Latvia LSM

Primulas bloom later, flower trade sluggish. Gardeners face tough times due to cold winter

The cold winter has delayed primula blooming by two weeks and affected flower sales and prices in Latvia.

In Latvia, the blooming of primulas has been delayed by two weeks due to an unusually cold winter, with temperatures dropping significantly below -10 degrees Celsius in several areas. This delay has major implications for local flower growers, as the cold weather significantly impacts the volume of flowers available for trade. As spring approaches, gardeners are starting to prepare their greenhouses, but the effects of the winter chill are still being felt across the sector, particularly in the town of CΔ“sis, where gardens are beginning to show early blooms despite the cold.

The impact of rising heating costs is being cautiously monitored, particularly concerning local cucumber and tomato prices, as agricultural producers brace for potential price increases. There is an expectation that the prices of locally grown flowers could see a rise of 5-10% this season. The local nursery in Rauna is preparing for its first spring activities, while the Valmiera nursery has managed to procure enough pellets for greenhouse heating, promising a steady supply for upcoming productions.

Additionally, at the PriekuΔΌi nursery, innovative heating solutions have been adopted, utilizing solar energy to warm greenhouses, which may provide an advantage in reducing costs and increasing production. This multifaceted approach to addressing the challenges posed by the harsh winter highlights the adaptation strategies that local growers are implementing to maintain financial sustainability in the face of unexpected climate conditions.

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