Locally grown flowers

Elaine Chapman, Senior Supply Chain Development Adviser, DARD

The high quality of locally grown flowers and foliage has encouraged two prestigious Belfast florists to showcase local production.

From 4 to 6 September 2008 Penny Young, from Penelope Flowers, Kings Road, Knock and Claire Tosh, All Seasons, Dunmurry, are to give their customers the opportunity to see for themselves just how good Northern Ireland flowers and foliage really are.

This event is supported by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) and the College of Agriculture and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE). Over a number of years growers have worked closely with DARD staff to develop and implement the technology to grow and market quality flowers and foliage. Local growers now produce and supply a wide range of quality flowers and foliage to the local market and beyond.

Flower crops such as Alstromeria, Calla lilies, Oriental lilies, Stock and Sweet William are all grown in Northern Ireland as well as foliage crops such as Eucalyptus, Hypericum, Pussy Willow and Rhododendron. There are many reasons why we should buy locally grown flowers and foliage:

So why not make a point of coming along to Penelope Flowers or All Seasons to see the best in locally produced flowers and foliage.

For details on any aspect of locally grown cut flowers and foliage contact David Davidson, Cut Flower Development Adviser, CAFRE, Greenmount Campus, Telephone: 028 3751 5605 or email: david.davidson@dardni.gov.uk