Plastics play a major role in floriculture, appearing in everything from propagation trays and plant containers to floral sleeves, shipping crates and even price tags. For growers, wholesalers and retailers, plastics provide convenience, durability and cost efficiency, making them difficult to replace entirely.

At the same time, as the industry explores more sustainable practices, plastics present a significant challenge. Many businesses are working to balance the practical benefits of plastic with growing concerns about waste, recyclability and environmental impact. Achieving that balance is

The American Floral Endowment’s Grow Pro Webinar Series will return in 2026 for its sixth year, continuing to provide timely, research-based education for growers across the floral and horticulture industry.

What began as a targeted training initiative has grown into one of AFE’s most widely attended educational programs, reaching hundreds of professionals each month and supporting growers at all stages of production.

The 2026 lineup features a broad range of topics addressing key production challenges and emerging innovations. Sessions will cover pest and disease management, substrates, water

Alexandra Farms put a special spotlight on one of talented photographers. Flower photography came naturally to Galina Serebriakova. It was not until a friend pointed out her instinctive eye for floral structure and beauty that she considered a career beyond her role as a coffee specialist for a large company. Encouraged by that realization — and a growing sense of unfulfillment — Serebriakova turned to floral design. Over time, she became an influential designer and the owner of GALA, based in Bogotá, Colombia.

A native of Russia, Serebriakova studied floral design in Moscow at one of the

The 78th annual Santa Barbara International Orchid Show will take place March 20–22 at the Earl Warren Showgrounds in Santa Barbara, CA. The celebrated event features an international lineup of growers and elaborate floral displays. This year’s theme, Orchid Escape, invites visitors to explore the vibrant beauty of orchids and their natural habitats, with lush, tropical-inspired displays and cascading blooms.

Vendors and exhibitors from around the world vie for honors such as Best Orchid in Show, Grand Champion Cymbidium and other awards recognizing the show’s most outstanding flowers.

“The

For 65 years, the American Floral Endowment has supported the growth of the floral industry by funding research, education and professional development that help the floral community adapt, innovate and thrive.

Established in 1961, AFE was founded to ensure a strong, sustainable future for floriculture through industry-driven investment. Since then, the endowment has provided more than $23 million for research, educational grants, scholarships and internship programs — support that continues to shape the industry.

“These investments have touched every segment of floriculture,” said David Garcia

That Flower Feeling, the floral industry’s national marketing initiative, announced that its “Just Add Flowers” campaign has surpassed 1 million digital impressions since launching in November.

The milestone coincides with the organization’s fifth year, reflecting the campaign’s expanding reach and growing influence. That Flower Feeling aims to position flowers as an everyday essential rather than a special-occasion purchase, an approach that has delivered measurable results.

Test market studies conducted by the foundation showed a double-digit lift in sales volume, with TFF-supported regions