USDA releases 2009 horticulture census

Overall, total sales of horticultural crops between 1998 and 2009 increased by 10 percent to $11.7 billion, according to the USDA’s Census of Horticultural Specialties.

 

“Despite the recent economic downturn, the U.S. horticulture industry as a whole is showing resilience by increasing diversification of the products produced,” said Joe Prusacki, NASS Statistics Division director. “Food crop production has shown the largest growth in this sector of agriculture, possibly a link to increased consumer interest in fresh fruits and vegetables.” 

 

The census results show a more than average sales increase for bedding plants, nursery stock and propagative materials. A downturn in sales was documented for cut flowers (down 21 percent), foliage plants (down 14 percent) and cut Christmas tree sales (down 3 percent).

 

Here’s how some of the numbers stacked up:

Nursery stock: Sales of $3.9 billion in 2009, up 24.3 percent from 1998.

Herbaceous perennial plants: Sales of $844 million in 2009, up 34.5 percent from 1998.

Propagative materials: Sales of $602 million in 2009, up 22 percent from 1998.

Food crops grown under protection: Sales of $553 million in 2009, up 148.5 percent from 1998.

Annual bedding/garden plants: Sales of $2.3 billion in 2009, up 33.3 percent from 1998.

 

For the entire report, go here.

 

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