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Once a symbol of beauty, biodiversity, and economic promise, Sri Lanka’s floriculture industry is now in survival mode, battling the rising heat of climate change. From the lush, temperate highlands of Nuwara Eliya to the humid plains of Gampaha and Kurunegala, unpredictable weather is threatening the livelihoods of thousands of flower growers and the nation’s blossoming export ambitions.
In 2022 alone, Sri Lanka’s floriculture sector brought in USD 14.66 million in export earnings. With cut foliage accounting for 88% of this revenue, and key markets such as the Netherlands, Japan, and Saudi Arabia, the country’s floriculture footprint has stretched far beyond its shores. But as global demand for ornamental plants grows, the sector at home is wilting under pressure, especially from climate change. Read here
Export performance in floriculture sector in Sri Lanka. Source: Export Development Board Sri Lanka
Source: Export Development Board Sri Lanka
The fragile beauty of temperature sensitive species
Sri Lanka’s cut flower production is primarily concentrated in the Western, North Western, and Central Provinces. The country’s cut flowers are categorized into Temperate Cut Flowers and Tropical Cut Flowers. Temperate cut flowers, such as carnations and roses, are mainly grown for export in the Central Province. Tropical cut flowers, such as Anthuriums and Orchids, are grown for exports and local markets. Anthurium cultivation covers approximately 10 hectares and is expanding at village level. Read here
However, these species require a delicate balance of temperature, humidity, and rainfall. That balance is now slipping.
“Even in Nuwara Eliya, a traditionally favorable zone for floriculture, species like roses have become harder to grow,” says Indika Wijayasuriya, Chairman of the Green Lanka Flowers and Ornamental Plants Growers Society. “Last year, excessive rainfall reduced rose yields and drove up prices.”
He adds that environmental stress is even altering the visual appeal of flowers: “Some flower varieties, now turns to green from their original colour”
Environmental stress from rising temperature and humidity alters natural flower shades. Image by Indika Wijayasuriya
Disrupting Growth and Quality
Increasing average temperature with erratic rainfall patterns leading to delayed blooming cycles, reduced flower size and color vibrancy and increased pest and disease outbreaks.
High humidity and irregular rain have triggered a rise in fungal infections like botrytis and powdery mildew. “We now spend significantly more on fungicides, which eats into our profit margins,” notes Mr. Wijayasuriya.
The situation is even grimmer for smallholder growers, who make up a significant share of the industry. Many rely solely on seasonal rains and traditional farming methods, both of which are proving unreliable in a warming world.
Economic Impact: Withering Returns for a Growing Demand
Despite the sector’s growth, with 500 hectares under floriculture cultivation, the majority of exports are foliage-based, while cut flowers still lag in global market share. Roses and carnations are grown on limited land, around 3 hectares and 10 hectares respectively, primarily for export under controlled conditions.
However, the erratic climate has thrown even high-tech operations off balance. Rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall have reduced both yields and aesthetic quality, directly impacting exports.
A study by HARTI (Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute) confirms that yield losses from drought and fungal disease have increased over the past five years, affecting both export performance and local incomes.
Struggling to Adapt
Well-funded commercial farms in developed nations (Netherlands) have implemented adopting solutions like:
- Micro-irrigation and greenhouse technology
- Humidity control systems
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
- Climate-resilient plant varieties
While most local growers don’t use full greenhouses, many have resorted to constructing poly tunnels or netting as a basic protective measure. Funded by the World Bank, some growers have also implemented humidity control units and exhaust fans to better manage moisture. But these innovations remain out of reach for many village-level producers, who lack access to credit, training, and policy support. Efforts to reduce fertilizer costs have been challenged by erratic rainfall, which often washes nutrients away before absorption.
Humidity control units at work inside a greenhouse, maintaining optimal conditions for delicate flower cultivation. Image by Indika Wijayasuriya
Climate Policy: Still Catching Up
Sri Lanka’s National Adaptation Plan (2021–2025) identifies floriculture as a vulnerable sub-sector. Yet, implementation has been fragmented and underfunded. While institutions like the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya have supported varietal development and limited R&D, much more is needed. Read here
Thus, with only 0.2% of the global floriculture market, Sri Lanka’s potential remains largely untapped. The island’s diverse microclimates, rich native flora, and strategic geographic location offer a strong foundation. But without robust climate adaptation strategies and policy interventions, the petals of opportunity may fall too soon.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka’s floriculture industry stands at a crossroads. With climate change rapidly altering the landscape, both literally and economically, the time to act is now. To ensure the island continues to color the world with its tropical blooms, resilience must become the root of every petal grown.
References:
https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/resource/NAP-Sri-Lanka-2016.pdf
http://harti.gov.lk/images/download/publication/policy/harti_policy_brief_09.pdf
https://www.srilankabusiness.com/floriculture/floriculture-export-performance.html
Images/ Maps:
https://www.srilankabusiness.com/floriculture/floriculture-export-performance.html
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Photo by Ishan Kahapola Arachchi on Unsplash
