PROFITING FROM CULTURAL DIVERSITY: EXPLORING CUT MARIGOLD FLOWERS AS A NEW CROP FOR FLORIDA
Horticulture & Turfgrass
Karen Stauderman
Horticulture Extension Agent II
University of Florida
Sorrento
Abstract
Situation: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida ranks #1 in domestic migration and #2 in international migration with 1,218 people moving in per day. This presents a unique opportunity for exploring alternative markets such as ceremonial flower usage. Marigold flowers hold cultural significance in Asian, Hispanic, and Hindu traditions, prompting us to investigate their potential as a profitable crop for cut flower growers. Objectives: 1) Out of six cultivars, two will show potential for cut flower production as trialed in a Spring extension field study and 2) One cultivar will yield more marketable flowers than others implying greater profitability. Methods: We conducted a field trial with six marigold cultivars, evaluating flower diameter, yield to identify promising options for cut flower production. Marigold flowers were collected and measured at maturity every second week throughout the Spring trial. Results were statistically analyzed through regression analysis. Results: Among the six marigold cultivars tested, Garuda Yellow, Garuda Deep Gold, and Oriental Deep Gold exhibited the largest flower diameters, measuring 7.73mm, 7.57mm, and 7.18mm, respectively. In contrast, Mayan Orange had the smallest diameter at 5.99mm. Although Garuda Deep Gold produced the largest flowers, it yielded the least in quantity. Oriental Deep Gold and Sumati Orange were the most prolific in terms of flower yield. Our findings were shared with growers and the public, highlighting the market potential, and recommending strategic cultivation of multiple cultivars to maximize profits and accommodate seasonal demand. Conclusion: The beauty of the marigold flowers contributes to their popularity indicating a potential interest nationwide. We recommend planting more than one cultivar to stretch the season and maximize profitability. This study underscores the economic and cultural opportunities associated with marigold production, offering growers a pathway to tap into a lucrative niche market while honoring and preserving diverse cultural traditions.
Authors: Karen Stauderman, David Norman, Edzard van Santen
-
Karen Stauderman Commercial Horticulture Extension Agent III, UF/IFAS Extension Volusia County, Florida, 32724
-
David Norman Associate Professor, UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research & Education Center, Florida, 32703
-
Edzard van Santen Professor, UF/UFAS Agronomy Department, Florida, 32611