Cautious growth for the horticultural sector despite volatile market and declining volumes |
06/05/2025 |
The Dutch flowers and plantsector recorded modest growth in the first quarter of 2025, with a 1% increase in export value and a 4.5% rise in auction turnover for cut flowers, despite declining volumes and a late Easter. Tulips were in short supply, but higher prices partially compensated for the lower availability. Houseplant turnover declined by 3%, mainly due to reduced supply, while garden plant sales fluctuated sharply by month and ended the quarter slightly negative overall.
Flower and plant exports grows 1%
The export value of flowers and plants increased by just over 1% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Growth was driven by cut flowers (+2%), while plant exports remained stable. After a strong start, growth slowed in March, due in part to a late Easter and limited tulip availability. Overall export volumes declined by 5% for flowers and 3% for plants. Exporters continue to face increasing regulatory pressure, including stricter UK import rules. A positive development is the extension of the use of the UK plant passport through 2027.
Cut flower auctions turnover rises
Auction turnover for homegrown cut flowers at Royal FloraHolland reached over 626 million euros in the first quarter of 2025, which was a cumulative increase of 4.5% compared to the same period in 2024. Growth was strongest in January (+16%), slowed in February (+7%), and turned negative in March (-7%). The March decline was due to a late Easter and a limited supply of tulips. Lower volumes pushed average prices to record highs. Lilies and gerberas performed particularly well in a tight market.
Houseplant auction tuenover declined
The turnover for homegrown houseplant turnover declined by 3% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year. January started positively (+6%), but February and March saw declines of 7% and 6% respectively. The lower turnover in this first quarter was mainly caused by a 5% drop in supply, despite an average price increase of 2%. Phalaenopsis, Anthurium, and arrangements remained popular, although plants such as Dracaena and Kalanchoë experienced significant declines.
Garden plant auctions turnover slighty lower
Turnover for homegrown garden plants at Royal FloraHolland fell by nearly 1% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to a year earlier. Monthly results varied significantly, with growth in January (+3%), a sharp decline in February (-12%), and a recovery in March (+3%). Sales of Viola, Lavandula, and Dianthus rose slightly thanks to stable prices, while Camellia and Ranunculus stood out with strong increases driven by higher volumes and rising prices. Expectations for the spring season remain positive thanks to favourable weather and the later Easter holiday.
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