With changing lifestyles, cut flowers have become an essential part of wedding ceremonies and other occasions. The annual turnout in production is about 10,000 to 12,000 tons (EPB.2000. Government of Pakistan). Pakistan exports about 15 tons of fresh producte and 115tons of dried flower products. The University believes that exports of fresh products can be boosted by maintaining the cool chain system throughout the country, which will reduce 40% of production lost after post harvesting.

Unfortunately, there is no in-depth study regarding to economics and marketing of floriculture in Pakistan. It is interesting to note that Pakistan not only exports flowers to Gulf States, but also in Europe.

The flowers were produced during winter and most of the traditional events are held during that period. Pakistan is blessed with highly variable climate and biodiversity; Rose, Carnation, Statice, Gypsophila, Gerbera, Anthumrium, Sanpdragon, Marigold, gladiolus, Narcissus, Freezia, Tuberose and lily can be produced commercially. Due to low production costs, Pakistan has enormous opportunities to meet local demand and also has high potential for exports.

As compared to the other provinces, floriculture is better developed in Punjab, due to the lack of proper storage, transportation facilities and very less exports flower cultivation is only concentrated to big cities surrounding local markets. Floriculture is also securing popularity in Balochistan province, which is acquitted with fertile soil and ideal climacteric conditions with the longest production period to about eight months which is only four months in other provinces. The University suggests that this advantage must be utilised to uplift the economy of the country through exports.

Whereas floriculture related industries are in their initial stages. India has similar climatic and ecological conditions and has the largest floricultural industry in the world, keeping in view Pakistan has also substantial potential, which is to be identified and utilised properly. 

Source: University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan