Rising flower prices: How tariffs and global supply chains impact the floral industry

With Mother’s Day, graduation season and weddings all in full bloom, demand for flowers is surging. But industry experts say flower prices are also climbing, and international tariffs are partly to blame.

While the United States grows some of its own floral inventory, most flowers sold nationwide come from overseas, particularly South America, and are now facing added costs.

The impact of tariffs on the floral industry

In 2023, the U.S. imported $2.2 billion worth of cut flowers and greens. Most of that came from South American countries such as Colombia and Ecuador. But many of these imported blooms are subject to tariffs, adding to the overall cost for florists and consumers.

It’s not just the flowers. Florists are also seeing rising prices on essential supplies such as vases and containers, many of which come from China and face even higher tariffs.

Even farm supplies like drip tape and greenhouse plastic are imported and taxed, adding strain on domestic growers.

U.S. growers still rely on global supplies

Kate Penn, CEO of the Society of American Florists, said many small flower farms in the U.S. — especially those operating on just an acre or less — have grown since the pandemic. These local growers often sell directly to customers at farmers’ markets or to wedding vendors.

But even these farms depend on international sources. Many buy bulbs from countries like Italy and Holland, meaning tariff impacts still hit home.

Local farmer explains real-world costs

Rebecca Kutzer-Rice, owner of Moonshot Farm in New Jersey, recently received her first shipments with 10 percent tariffs.

“We’re estimating it could cost our small business anywhere from $40,000 to $50,000 a year, which for a small farm is almost the equivalent of like a salary of another employee,” Kutzer-Rice said.

Despite the costs, she and other florists remain committed to providing floral arrangements for customers across all budgets.

What can consumers do?

The Society of American Florists encourages customers to be upfront about their budget. Experts say florists can still create beautiful arrangements with any price point in mind — especially during a busy season when demand is high.

For those who want to shop local, Oklahoma flower lovers can head to:

1. Tulsa Farmers Market — Wednesdays from 8 to 11 a.m. in Kendall Whittier, near Admiral and Lewis.
2. Downtown Tulsa’s Midweek Market — Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Chapman Green, near 6th and Main.