Produce News Facebook  Produce News Twitter  Produce News LinkedIn  Produce News Instagram

Sunshine + freedom + flowers = the good life

“Just living is not enough ... one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.” — Hans Christian Andersen, Danish author, 1805-1875

Many people agree with Andersen’s statement — probably most of you reading this paper. Even though daily life sometimes seems complicated and crazy — and the autumn chill is back in the air — most of us are blessed with freedom, and sunshine (sometimes), and the opportunity to work with lots of “little flowers” every day.

COVER-SHOTIsabella is a spectacular Roselily variety grown by Sun Valley Farms in Arcata, CA, that is currently trending. It also beautifully represents the color pink used to raise awareness and show solidarity during October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.In this edition we feature several guest perspectives on the bouquet sector of the floral industry. Bouquets can be the bread and butter for supermarket floral departments so it’s prudent to maximize their potential. The topics covered include merchandising, training, consumer bunches, shrink management, customer perspectives and tips to revive your floral department. Plus, we have a story about one farm’s unique way of dealing with its flowerbed waste.

Our flower of the month is the lily — those popular and impressive beauties that always brighten up a floral display. Lane DeVries shares some of the latest lily trends from a grower’s perspective and we also cover a local lily society — the grassroots of personal lily growing and appreciation.

As fall and the upcoming holiday season approaches, we provide statistical information about Halloween; we preview three new poinsettia varieties; and we report on two nonprofit programs that honor the military — Trees for Troops and Wreaths Across America.

And finally, we have the latest information on recent and upcoming shows including Cindy Hanauer’s recap of the SAF convention and AFE fundraising dinner. October is a busy show month for floral professionals with WF&FSA, PMA and Proflora events all happening one right after the other. We’ll be recapping those in future issues.

If I don’t see you at PMA’s Fresh Summit, I’ll see you here again next month when we’ll be discussing Valentine’s Day. In the mean time, enjoy your freedom, some sunshine (hopefully) and your “little flowers.”

Richard Lutes is the floral editor and floral sales manager of The Produce News. He can be contacted at 763/595-9559 or [email protected].

Print
Read more

PRO*ACT Crop Update: Lettuce improves, tougher berries and potatoes

Lettuce markets continue to trend lower as supplies improve across California and regional production ramps up. Iceberg, Romaine and green leaf should remain under pressure through July. Quality is very good overall, but carton weights are running lighter as crews trim additional outer leaves to manage elevated insect pressure.

OZblu Global Grower Conference advances blueberry brand

On June 11, 2026, United Exports hosted the OZblu Global Grower Conference 2026, bringing together more than 260 delegates — including growers, investors, industry experts, retail partners and United Exports team members — from 36 countries, under the theme “Building the World’s Most Loved Blueberry Brand.”

Held in South Africa’s Western Cape, the flagship annual event served as a stage for knowledge exchange across the entire blueberry valuechain — from varietal optimization and farm management to technology adoption and global market development.

Fruit World’s updated grape program features organic Thomcords, Kyohos and new packaging

Creekside Organics is excited for the start of its 2026 California grape season, featuring Organic Thomcord and Kyoho grapes marketed under the Fruit World brand. This season also introduces new retail packaging designed to meet the evolving needs of shoppers and retailers.

The specialty grape program runs from late July through October and focuses on distinctive varieties known for exceptional flavor and strong consumer appeal.

Australian Soluna apples return with expanded supply

WA Farm Direct announced the return of premium Soluna apples to the United States for the 2026 season, building on the successful market debut in 2025. This season marks a significant expansion for the Australian‑bred variety, with shipments arriving on both the East Coast and West Coast of the U.S., improving availability and service across key retail markets.

NEPC Leadership Class volunteers at Boston Area Gleaners

The New England Produce Council Leadership Class recently visited Stonefield Farm to volunteer with Boston Area Gleaners as part of its community service project.

The group was welcomed by Anna Strickhausen, operations coordinator, who led the volunteers through a morning of weeding leek beds while providing insight into the important work involved in growing and harvesting fresh produce. The hands-on experience gave participants a deeper appreciation for the dedication required to bring fresh food from the farm to communities throughout the region.

Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet names new CEO

Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet announced that Andrea Montagna will become CEO of Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet, effective July 1. Montagna joined Mayda Sotomayor as co-CEO in July 2025.

Sotomayor will step back from her executive responsibilities and continue her involvement with the company as a board member of Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet and advisor to the business.

The transition reflects Greenyard's commitment to continuity and it’s future ambitions in the U.S., building on the strong foundation established by Greenyard USA/Seald Sweet over many decades.

Copyright © 2025 The Produce News • Covering Fresh Produce Around the Globe Since 1897