In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the flower assortment available in supermarkets. Single-variety bouquets, such as roses, chrysanthemums, tulips and carnations, are being offered less and are, to some extent, falling out of favour. Instead, we are seeing more mixed bouquets in all shapes, sizes and price categories. Apparently, these are more in line with consumer preferences, and retailers are readily responding.
This trend is also evident in Kenya, where growers are increasingly expanding their range to include summer flowers and bouquet fillers rather than traditional crops, such as roses. Meanwhile, more and more ready-made bouquets are being produced, tailored to the seasons and in matching colours.
It is impressive how rapidly Kenyan growers are mastering the cultivation of new crops, such as chrysanthemums, violas and alstroemerias. What I admire is their mentality: people are in closer touch with the market and are willing to switch immediately if the market asks for something different.
