florikultura

Floriculture, or florikultura in some languages, is a branch of horticulture focused on the production and study of flowering and ornamental plants for gardens, landscapes, interiors, and decorative use. It encompasses breeding and genetics, propagation, cultivation, post-harvest handling, and market distribution of cut flowers, potted ornamentals, and foliage crops.

Historically, floriculture developed from ornamental gardening in ancient civilizations and gained rapid advancement in Europe and the Americas with greenhouse technology, plant breeding, and improved transport during the 18th to 20th centuries. Global trade later expanded the industry into a highly international market.

Core practices include selecting and breeding plant material, propagation by seeds, cuttings, layering, or grafting, and growing under controlled conditions—often in greenhouses or climate-controlled rooms. Successful floriculture requires management of light, temperature, humidity, irrigation, nutrition, and integrated pest management to minimize losses and extend vase life.

Post-harvest handling, conditioning, packaging, and cold-chain logistics influence quality and shelf life. Markets comprise florists, landscapers, interior designers, gardening centers, and large-scale wholesalers. Floriculture also supports public and private landscaping, urban greening, and event decoration.

Industry challenges include water use, pesticide application, energy consumption, and transport emissions. Current trends emphasize sustainable production, local and seasonal sourcing, automation, and breeding for longer-lasting flowers and resilient ornamentals.

Educational programs in floriculture cover plant breeding, propagation, crop management, post-harvest physiology, and horticultural marketing. Research institutions and professional associations contribute to standards, certifications, and innovation in the field.