Bengaluru, one of the major exporters of roses, caters to the huge demand for the flower in many European and West Asian countries ahead of Valentine’s Day on February 14. But, this year, the business is dull owing to a dip in production as well as restrictions on airlines in the wake of the coronavirus scare.
The curbs on airlines has led to an increase in freight charges, and many carriers are less inclined to take perishable cargo, said V.H. Prasad, one of the directors of the International Flower Auction Bangalore Ltd (IFAB). Moreover, the production of roses has been badly affected because of the downy mildew disease.
T.M. Aravind, director of the South India Floriculture Association (SIFA), said another setback was the early production of roses in Hosur. Mr. Prasad said the best window for production for exports ahead of Valentine’s Day is between January 27 and February 13. “However, roses were ready in Hosur by January 20. The shelf life is not more than 15 to 20 days,” said Mr. Prasad.
