Tropical Plant Availability
Did you know that buying tropical plants from the Florida growers is like buying produce? Prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. Crop failures can occur, and a variety that gets press in a professional design magazine or a style blog may suddenly be hard to get. Hurricanes, like the one that hit central Florida last year, wreak havoc with growing plants and the shade structures that protect them. Whole crops were ruined last year due to sunburn, wind, torrential rain and flooding.
The last 12 months have been some of the most challenging in our almost 40-year history in terms of plant supply for interiorscapes. Many species and varieties that have been available with constant supply for years are now intermittently unavailable. Sometimes we can order a few on one Order, and then, they disappear for months as the crop sells through in days or hours.
We are not leaving planters empty, but you may see creative use of plant species you have not seen before. Plants we use may temporarily be larger or smaller than you had before, as we substitute. You may receive a “loaner” plant that we know will not thrive long-term, but perhaps will do fine in the summer months or for a few weeks. These plants will move to fill other spots over time, as the ideal plants come into stock. When we quote new installations, we appreciate your understanding as we ask you to make quick decisions so that we can reserve the plants needed immediately.
We appreciate your patience as we work to keep your plantscape attractive and healthy. Our Florida growers are working hard to rebuild structures, increase crop numbers, and keep working despite the challenges of a small labor pool and unpredictable weather.