Indian Florist Association leader predicts bright future for floriculture
INDIA – Pandharinath Mhaske, a retail florist from Pune and a coordinator for the India Florist Association (IFA), is confident that the future of Indian floriculture looks bright.
He shares his insights on the industry’s growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, government support, and increasing global demand.
Mhaske, who started his journey in floristry in 1993 with his shop ‘Sneh’ in Chinchwad, has seen substantial changes in the sector over the decades. According to him, commercial floriculture began thriving in India two to three decades ago, driven by urbanization, migration, and growing economic prosperity.
He emphasizes, however, that flowers have always been deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions. “Flowers play an important role in the country’s various festivals, as well as during the celebration of special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Teacher’s Day, and Mother’s Day,” he notes.
India’s floriculture industry is marked by regional diversity in production and flower use. “In southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, jasmine, marigold, and roses are produced on a large scale. Meanwhile, farmers in West Bengal and Assam often grow orchids and anthuriums,” Mhaske explains.
Additionally, India imports premium flowers such as orchids and tulips while exporting cut flowers, dried flowers, and houseplants.
One of the most significant developments, Mhaske points out, is the move toward polyhouse and greenhouse cultivation. “Since the Indian government and many state governments support flower growers by offering technical and financial aid, the industry is transitioning from traditional farming to polyhouse and greenhouse cultivation,” he shares.
He highlights the floriculture park in Pune as an example, which attracts start-ups collaborating with international experts.
Consumer tastes have also shifted over time. “Initially, Indian people preferred open-field cultivated flowers like garlands of tuberose and marigold. Now, they are more interested in exotic and premium flowers like hydrangeas, sunflowers, and orchids. Gifting potted plants has also become trendy,” says Mhaske.
Younger generations, influenced by social media and with greater purchasing power, are increasingly drawn to fresh flowers for both special occasions and personal enjoyment.
Mhaske is optimistic about the future of Indian floriculture. He attributes the growth to increasing demand for fresh flowers and the growing awareness of their positive impact on well-being.
“The demand for innovative designs and appreciation for fresh flowers generate business for farmers, traders, and florists in both urban and rural areas,” he explains.
The IFA actively supports these developments by providing training programs, hosting trade shows, and encouraging collaboration within the industry.
“We aim to improve the quality of our members’ products and services while keeping pace with the changing world,” Mhaske adds. He also highlights the rise of destination weddings, expected to increase by 20-25% in 2025, as a factor contributing to the sector’s growth.
As the Indian floriculture industry continues to adapt to changing trends and technologies, Mhaske believes it holds immense potential. “The exchange of ideas and best practices ensures a colorful future for everyone involved,” he concludes.
Indian Florist Association leader predicts bright future for floriculture
INDIA – Pandharinath Mhaske, a retail florist from Pune and a coordinator for the India Florist Association (IFA), is confident that the future of Indian floriculture looks bright.
He shares his insights on the industry’s growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, government support, and increasing global demand.
Mhaske, who started his journey in floristry in 1993 with his shop ‘Sneh’ in Chinchwad, has seen substantial changes in the sector over the decades. According to him, commercial floriculture began thriving in India two to three decades ago, driven by urbanization, migration, and growing economic prosperity.
He emphasizes, however, that flowers have always been deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions. “Flowers play an important role in the country’s various festivals, as well as during the celebration of special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Teacher’s Day, and Mother’s Day,” he notes.
India’s floriculture industry is marked by regional diversity in production and flower use. “In southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, jasmine, marigold, and roses are produced on a large scale. Meanwhile, farmers in West Bengal and Assam often grow orchids and anthuriums,” Mhaske explains.
Additionally, India imports premium flowers such as orchids and tulips while exporting cut flowers, dried flowers, and houseplants.
One of the most significant developments, Mhaske points out, is the move toward polyhouse and greenhouse cultivation. “Since the Indian government and many state governments support flower growers by offering technical and financial aid, the industry is transitioning from traditional farming to polyhouse and greenhouse cultivation,” he shares.
He highlights the floriculture park in Pune as an example, which attracts start-ups collaborating with international experts.
Consumer tastes have also shifted over time. “Initially, Indian people preferred open-field cultivated flowers like garlands of tuberose and marigold. Now, they are more interested in exotic and premium flowers like hydrangeas, sunflowers, and orchids. Gifting potted plants has also become trendy,” says Mhaske.
Younger generations, influenced by social media and with greater purchasing power, are increasingly drawn to fresh flowers for both special occasions and personal enjoyment.
Mhaske is optimistic about the future of Indian floriculture. He attributes the growth to increasing demand for fresh flowers and the growing awareness of their positive impact on well-being.
“The demand for innovative designs and appreciation for fresh flowers generate business for farmers, traders, and florists in both urban and rural areas,” he explains.
The IFA actively supports these developments by providing training programs, hosting trade shows, and encouraging collaboration within the industry.
“We aim to improve the quality of our members’ products and services while keeping pace with the changing world,” Mhaske adds. He also highlights the rise of destination weddings, expected to increase by 20-25% in 2025, as a factor contributing to the sector’s growth.
As the Indian floriculture industry continues to adapt to changing trends and technologies, Mhaske believes it holds immense potential. “The exchange of ideas and best practices ensures a colorful future for everyone involved,” he concludes.