Higher input costs for rose cultivation

At the 7 rozes nursery in Valmiera, Latvia, 8,000 young rose plants are currently developing in the greenhouse. The roses were grafted in January and kept for approximately two weeks at +20°C in an incubator before being transferred to the main greenhouse.

The primary heat source is a pellet boiler, and the structure is covered with double-layer plastic. The greenhouse is maintained at a minimum temperature year-round, while young rose plants require at least +15°C after transfer.

On average, the boiler consumes around three bags of pellets per day. During periods of -20°C frost, daily pellet consumption triples, resulting in heating costs of approximately €50–60 per day.

The nursery produces more than 230 rose varieties. To grow internationally recognised cultivars, the company pays licensing fees. In addition, the sharp rise in peat substrate prices has further increased production costs.

Considering all inputs, the owners expect seedling prices to increase by around 10% this season. They state that maintaining plant quality remains the priority despite rising expenses.

Source: rus.lsm.lv