What Happened With Poinsettias This Year?

Nochebuena (Poinsettia) flowers have been used for years as one of the most representative symbols of Christmas in Mexico. This year, however, production fell 16 percent, according to official data from SADER. Last year, production totaled 19 million plants, while this year 16 million flowers were produced, as stated by El Financiero. Production can be located in Mexico City, Jalisco, Michoacan, Morelos, Oaxaca and Puebla. Even though the most representative version is the red Poinsettia, this flower comes in other colors like white, yellow, pink and marble.

This year, Poinsettia production was dealt with anticipation. According to the Ministry of Agriculture (SADER), the number of sown plants and their production was calculated taking into consideration the current situation and mobility restrictions, allowing flower growers to produce 16 million plants in an area of ​​240.6 ha. The planning process started in May, given the flowers eight months to grow fully.

The three main growers, aside from Mexico City, were Morelos with 6 million flowers, Puebla with 2 million and Jalisco with 1 million. "We acknowledge the country's producers, especially those of flowers, because, despite restrictions due to the sanitary emergency and the social distancing and safety measures, they have not stopped producing," said SADER, according to El Financiero. Poinsettia harvesting is based on sustainable criteria and the preservation of soils and water, using techniques that do not degrade the environment, specified SADER.

The decrease in production and sales this year affected florists the most. Even though different traditions use different types of flowers, like the Cempansuchil (Marigold) used in November for Day of the Dead celebrations, these are not seen as a priority purchase at the moment. To help address this issue, the Mexico City government implemented a strategy so visitors can make their purchases with tranquility and safety, supporting the families of merchants, as mentioned in an Agronoticias article.