Flower shops are bursting with local flowers, as imported variants are no longer available as before, and many types of flowers have disappeared from the market. The economic and financial crisis has affected the whole sectors, and the agricultural sector is not immune to this crisis.

Farmers along with shop owners are unable to withstand these difficult circumstances. On the other hand, monopoly and manipulation is mushrooming between traders and merchants in the market.

Flower shop owner told Sawt Beirut International (SBI) reporter, Sarah Chehadeh, “Customers should set their order two days in advance. A month ago, tulips were locally produced and of high quality, however, the cost of an imported tulip flower hems around 12,000 LBP. He added, that’s why customers prefer local flowers such as roses, as the price of a dozen ranges between 90,000 and 100,000 LBP.”

A citizen who was buying a bouquet of roses said, “I chose the less expensive types of roses, as they remain cheaper than other gifts such as clothes and others.”

Buying a bouquet of roses is no longer the same. A large budget should be allocated for arranging wedding flowers, as the bill could exceed sometimes 50 million LBP.

Another flower seller said, “There is shortage of a wide range of flower variants in the market, as a result of the economic crisis and depreciation of Lebanese pound against dollar. For instance, the cost of the Dutch calathea was 30,000 LBP previously, equivalent to $20, and we used to sell it for 50,000 LBP. Previously, we used to purchase between 500 and 600 pieces, or even a complete shipment, but currently we are purchasing about 12 pieces only and from the local market, although this plant is seasonal.”

Lebanese farmers lack the government’s support, and due to this reality farmers are struggling to sustain, although they provide high quality and distinguished flowers. The concerned authorities can play a crucial role to save what has been left from this vital sector.