At the foot of Cayambe volcano in Ecuador -- where the equator meets the Andes -- workers at rose farm Hoja Verde begin their day at 6 a.m., harvesting flowers bound for markets around the globe. The region, one of Ecuador's most productive rose-growing areas, is dotted with such farms, supported by the country's high altitude, abundant sunlight, and favorable climate.
"Ecuador's natural conditions give our roses exceptional quality," said Hernan Davila, sales manager at Hoja Verde. "They've been in high demand in China for years."
From the moment each stem is cut, the race is on to deliver fresh roses to consumers. Workers quickly disinfect and package the flowers before loading them onto trucks bound for the airport. There, boxes are stored in refrigerated containers at temperatures between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius before being flown overseas.
During peak seasons, roughly 30 flights depart daily from Quito, Ecuador's capital, carrying fresh-cut roses across the world. A typical shipment to Beijing involves two transfers and takes about 40 hours. With the support of a "green channel" for fresh-cut flowers, customs officials in China offer expedited processing and round-the-clock inspection services. From harvest to customs clearance, the journey takes just 1.5 hours -- and within three days, Ecuadorian roses can travel from farm to vase in the hands of Chinese consumers.
Read more at People's Daily Online
