COLUMBUS, Ohio — Roses are red. violets are blue. That bouquet of roses you want may cost you.
Roses will soon be flying off the shelves at local florists. This year, the flower that says “I love you” will cost from a few dollars to $10 more than last year.
“We are experiencing labor shortages like most other businesses. This could be a reason that these flowers are a bit higher in cost because workers are having to work overtime sometimes double overtime to get all the orders complete," said Melinda Knuth, an assistant professor of horticulture science at North Carolina State University.
Most of the nation’s roses are produced in two countries, Columbia and Ecuador. They produce 80% of the world’s roses.
Knuth says this year’s growing season was excellent so there won’t be a shortage of roses.
At Oberfer’s in northeast Columbus, florists say they will serve about 3,000 customers company-wide and will likely be sold out come Valentine’s Day.
The florists tell 10TV to protect your investment, look for roses with bright green leaves, take your finger and gently pinch the buds to make sure they are not squishy — that’s a sign the rose may be aging.
They say the rose bud should be firm. Also, don’t forget to use the chemical packet that comes with your rose. Inside the packet are ingredients that help keep the water clean and nutrients to keep the plant healthy.
They also advise avoiding putting the roses near a heat source like a window or on top of a TV. Roses will keep longer if they are in a cool environment.
The National Retail Federation predicts that $14.2 billion will be spent on Valentine’s Day nationwide, with the top gifts including candy and cards, and $2.6 billion going towards flowers.
If you’re on a budget and are looking for alternative flowers, experts suggest carnations or chrysanthemums.