The ornamental sector in Almeria continues to lead the cultivation of the Christmas season plant, the poinsettia Euphorbia pulcherrima. According to the latest data from Plantaespana, of the nearly 10 million poinsettias produced in Spain, the number of units grown in the provinces of Almeria and Granada has increased compared to last year and now represents 36 percent of national production.
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Francisco Rubio, head of Plantaespana, explains the difficulty in creating new markets and increasing sales. "Consumption is very defined, sales channels are already established, and the plant has logistical limitations that make long transports difficult. Even so, the sector is making progress little by little, with a lot of effort, mainly by focusing on plant quality."
During the campaign that began in summer, greenhouses in Almeria started planting more than 3 million plants between July and August. Cultivation takes place in staggered phases: large formats are planted in mid July, smaller sizes in August and September, and after transplanting and pinching, each plant receives its own irrigation emitter to ensure uniform development. Producers are now preparing the plants for market in several formats, mainly in 14 centimeter pots and cup formats, in red, white and pink. Red continues to dominate the market with 90 percent of sector production.
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Some growers are also introducing varieties such as J adore white, which produces several bright flowers, and Princettia, a genetically improved variety in fuchsia tones. The work behind each poinsettia is demanding, involving integrated pest management, growth regulation with light, and precise irrigation. These efforts do not always translate into higher consumer prices, leaving tight margins for growers.
Although the main market remains Spain, around 15 percent of production is exported to countries such as France, Portugal and Italy. Thanks to natural light levels in the south, poinsettias grown in Almeria show better resistance in store and longer shelf life.
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Future challenges
The increase in poinsettia production reinforces Almerias leadership in this ornamental category, with direct impact on specialized labor, auxiliary industry, and the consolidation of a Christmas product linked to Almeria.
To maintain this position, the sector identifies the following priorities: technical training, R and D focused on more resistant and visually attractive varieties, sustainable growing practices, and further international market development.
© PlantaespañaFor more information:
Plataespaña
[email protected]
www.plantaespana.es
