The Ornamental Horticulture
industry in Zamboanga City, particularly the cut flower sector,
is still young but growing business activity. Total output has
been insufficient to meet the demands in the local market. High
cost of seedling material and farm inputs and adequate knowledge
in production techniques are among the bottlenecks that prevent
local producers to compete with growers from Davao, Cebu
including growers from neighboring Asian countries.
|
 |
|
Mr. Wilson Henry Go-
one of the leading and pioneering horticulturist in the
city at his farm in Barangay Mercedes |
There are about forty
identified growers engaged in commercial production in the city.
This number does not include the numerous hobbyists growing a
variety of orchids and other ornamental plants located in the
barangays. Of this number, production is estimated at an average
of 2000 dozens per month. On the aggregate, over 50 hectares are
devoted to the production of variety of orchids, selected
species or ornamental plants, anthuriums, roses, bromeliads,
gerbera, mums and others.
Among the various problems
the industry is facing are lack of market information, poor
technology and production inputs, entry problems of imported
seed stocks and working capital.
The focus of the industry
is to increase production capacity, conduct of technology
seminars to introduce new production techniques, establish
linkages with concerned agencies top facilitate entry of
imported seed stocks and assist in the sourcing of Capital
needs. |
