Eagle-Link Flowers to Harness the potential of US Market.

Eagle-Link Flowers to Harness the potential of the US flower Market. Kenyan Exporters of fresh cut flower are moving to exploit a huge market potential by increasing their flower exports to the United States. Kenyan flower exporters are seeking ways to increase their exports to the US which have remained significantly low in the last two years

The most preferred way of getting the market is by supplying cut flowers to supermarket chains across the United States. Supermarkets have buyer power and retailer power and they control most fresh produce sales.

Eagle-Link Flowers’ focus will be on increasing the export of big-headed roses to compete with Colombia that currently accounts for more than 80 per cent of flower exports to the US. We have been doing many promotions in major US cities like Miami and New York. This will fully exploit the US market.

The timeline for flowers exported to the United States from Kenya, they are cut on day one, air-shipped out of Kenya on day two, arrive in Miami or New York on day three and are in the market for sale to consumers on day four. Despite the long distance, Kenyan Flowers are known to have a long vase-life.

Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

Kenya’s Summer Flowers.

Smallholder farmers in the Kenya have now delved into flower farming, The flowers are grown in an open field under a shade that can be made of nets or polythene bags, unlike a greenhouse, which calls for total closure, which makes them a favourite among the farmers.

Most of Kenya’s summer flowers are grown outside the greenhouses and are enjoyed as cut flowers and foliage around the world, offering cheaper and diverse alternatives to florist flowers. Summer flowers can be mixed with other flowers to make a bouquet.

A greenhouse is a building specially constructed for growing plants under controlled conditions, but with a translucent ceiling and walls that allow natural sunlight to enter. Summer flowers however do well outside the green houses

Despite being farmed in the open, summer flowers are a major part of the flower production in Kenya. Many farmers utilize high levels of technology, for example, drip irrigation and fertigation systems, pre-cooling and cold storage facilities, grading and bouqueting, fertilizer recycling systems to prevent wastage, wetlands for waste water treatment, grading/packaging sheds, and refrigerated trucks have been adopted.

Some of the summer flowers produced in Kenya include: Alstromerias, Solidago, Hydrangea, peony, Gabera, Limonium, Ruscus, leather leaves, Veronica, Gyposophilla, Trachelium and various greens for bouquet fillers.

These flowers are delivered to destinations around the world. Approximately 65% of exported flowers are sold through the Dutch Auctions, although direct sales are growing. In the United Kingdom, supermarkets are the main retail outlets. Other growing destinations include Japan, Russia and USA. Over 25% of exported flowers are delivered directly to these multiples, providing an opportunity for value addition at source through sleeving, labeling and bouquet production.

Going forward, the industry will continue benchmarking itself against other producer countries. Information thus gathered will be useful in formulating strategies for growth, to capture prospects of expansion in current and emerging markets.

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

Can the Kenyan flower market surpass Holland?

The Kenyan flower market has grown rapidly in the past few years. With low cost and perfect climate the Kenyan flower business is already a 1/2 billion dollar market. They are sending 60% of their flowers to Holland for exchange and 40%to other countries. Will they surpass Holland production in the near future.

Link to CNN’s thoughts–http://www.cnn.com/videos/business/2015/05/18/spc-marketplace-africa-kenya-flower-industry-b.cnn

Here is Eagle-Link Flower’s take on Kenyan success and their outlook:–

Kenya is one of the four countries in the world that has the best conditions to grow flowers and many florists and flower wholesalers around the world are preferring these flowers Kenya. Holland is mainly a re-exporter of flowers though they also have local flowers but may be in the coming future considering the intense marketing and huge investments in the industry in Kenya; This country may surpass Holland as the flower hub.

The main production areas are around Lake Naivasha, Mt. Kenya, Nairobi, Thika, Kiambu, Athi River, Kitale, Nakuru, Kericho, Nyandarua, Transzoia, Uasin Gichu and Eastern Kenya.

The strategical location on the Equator allows us to have sunlight 10 hours per day while taking advantage of the volcanic soil and fresh clear water of the nearby lakes, rives, dams and boreholes.

The temperatures during the day vary between 20-25 degrees which is perfect for growing thick stems and big buds. The lower temperatures at night assure strong and vivid colors of our roses.

If you want to have a competitive advantage over your competition, we suggest you try our Roses and other Flowers, we guarantee an outstanding product and service.

Why buy roses from Kenya?
• Bigger Buds
• Brighter Colors
• Longer Vase Life
• Beautiful Foliage
• Better Packaging
• A lot varieties and products
• Assistance with transport

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

Symbolic Meanings of Wedding Flowers

So roses mean love, tulips mean passion. Want more? Consult our guide to the symbolic meaning of flowers.
Baby's Breath or Gypsophila
Meaning: Innocence
Best For: Filler in bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres
Scent: None
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Inexpensive

Calla Lily

Meaning: Magnificent beauty
Best For: Bouquets and arrangements
Scent: Lightly fragrant
In Season: Spring and summer
Price Range: Expensive
Floral Fact: This large tropical flower is very popular in weddings.

Carnation

Meaning: Pink represents boldness, red symbolizes love, and white indicates talent. Some other colors have negative connotations (see below).
Best For: Bouquets, boutonnieres, and arrangements
Scent: Very light fragrance or none at all, depending on variety
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Inexpensive

Chrysanthemum (or mum)

Meaning: Wealth, abundance, truth
Best For: Bouquets and arrangements
Scent: None
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Inexpensive
Floral Fact: Mums come in several varieties, which determine their size and color. The name literally means "golden flower."

Daffodil

Meaning: Regard
Best For: Garden settings, in pots
Scent: None
In Season: Spring
Price Range: Inexpensive (in season)

Daisy

Meaning: Share your feelings
Best For: Bouquets
Scent: None
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Inexpensive (in season)

Delphinium

Meaning: Swiftness, lightness
Best For: Arrangements
Scent: Lightly fragrant
In Season: Summer
Price Range: Moderate

Freesia

Meaning: Innocence
Best For: Bouquets
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Spring and summer
Price Range: Inexpensive (in season)

Gardenia

Meaning: Purity, joy
Best For: Bouquets and boutonnieres
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Expensive

Hydrangea

Meaning: Understanding
Best For: Bouquets and arrangements
Scent: None
In Season: Spring and fall
Price Range: Expensive

Iris

Meaning: A message of faith, wisdom
Best For: In arrangements or potted
Scent: Fragrant
In Season: Spring
Price Range: Moderate to expensive, depending on variety
Floral Fact: Irises come in several sizes; they are usually blue or white, but you may find exotic varieties (including purple ones).

Lilac

Meaning: Love's first emotions
Best For: Filler in arrangements or as part of bouquets, depending on variety
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Local lilacs are available in the spring; imported French lilacs are available year-round
Price Range: Moderate to expensive
Floral Fact: The local lilac is grown like a bush, and is used as filler because of its greenery. The French lilac is more flower-like and can be used as such in bouquets and arrangements.

Lily

Meaning: Majesty, truth, honor
Best For: Bouquets and arrangements
Scent: Fragrant
In Season: Summer, but often imported during other seasons
Price Range: Moderate to expensive

Lily of the Valley

Meaning: Happiness
Best For: Bouquets, in combination with other flowers
Scent: Fragrant
In Season: Spring and summer
Price Range: Expensive
Floral Fact: These small, fragile, bell-shaped flowers are considered traditional marriage flowers.

Magnolia

Meaning: Love of nature
Best For: Arrangements
Scent: Depends on variety
In Season: Spring and summer
Price Range: Expensive
Floral Fact: Magnolias are more common in Southern-style weddings, as most magnolia trees grow in the South.

Orchid

Meaning: Love, beauty
Best For: Bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres
Scent: None
In Season: Year-round -- almost always imported
Price Range: Expensive
Floral Fact: This exotic flower comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

Peony

Meaning: Bashfulness, the American spirit of ambition and determination
Best For: Arrangements
Scent: Lightly fragrant
In Season: Late spring
Price Range: Expensive

Rose

Meaning: Love, joy, beauty
Best For: Bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres, and arrangements
Scent: Lightly fragrant to very fragrant, depending on variety
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Moderate to expensive
Floral Fact: Roses are the most popular wedding flowers.

Stephanotis

Meaning: Marital happiness
Best For: Bouquets and arrangements
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Moderate
Floral Fact: These trumpet-shape blossoms are traditional bridal flowers, no doubt due to their meaning.

Stock

Meaning: Lasting beauty
Best For: Filler in arrangements
Scent: Very fragrant
In Season: Year-round
Price Range: Inexpensive
Floral Fact: Stock can be found in many colors to complement and fill out arrangements.

Sunflower

Meaning: Short-stemmed sunflowers mean adoration; long-stemmed sunflowers symbolize haughtiness
Best For: Carrying a single stem down the aisle; potted arrangements
Scent: None
In Season: Fall
Price Range: Inexpensive to moderate in season

Sweet Pea

Meaning: Pleasure
Best For: Garden setting, in vases
Scent: Fragrant
In Season: Late spring and early summer
Price Range: Moderate

Tulip

Meaning: Love, passion
Best For: Arrangements and bouquets
Scent: None
In Season: Late spring
Price Range: Expensive
Floral Fact: These sweet and stately flowers can be found in a myriad of colors, but they are very fragile.

Unfavorable Flowers

It's sad but true: You might want to avoid certain flowers (if you're superstitious, that is). On the other hand, you can always thumb your nose at history and ascribe your own meaning to these "questionable" blooms. Here are the so-called negative indicators:
Christmas Rose: Scandal
Fig: Idleness
Foxglove: Insincerity
Larkspur: Infidelity
Lavender: Distrust
Marigold: Grief
Mulberry: I shall not survive you
Raspberry: Remorse
Red Carnation: Alas for my poor heart
Red Poppy: Consolation
Rhododendron: Danger
Striped Carnation: Refusal
White Poppy: Sleep
Yellow Carnation: Disdain
Yellow Chrysanthemum: Slighted Love
Yellow Lily: Falsehood
Yellow Rose: Jealousy

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

10 Wedding Flowers for Export

Having trouble picking your flowers from the thousands of varieties available? To help you narrow down your bouquet and centerpiece choices before you meet with your florist, we offer this overview of the top 10 most popular wedding flowers.

1. Rose
Long considered a symbol of beauty and love, the rose figures into many myths and fairy tales. Romantic writers and poets have used the flower as a metaphor for emotion, beauty, passion, and true love throughout the ages. An all-star in the world of weddings, the rose is far from boring, particularly when it comes to color -- the rose is available in solid colors and bicolor varieties, and there are striped roses and tipped roses as well. More than three thousand varieties of roses are grown commercially, many available year-round and that are surprisingly affordable. And though roses are associated with luxurious fragrance, not every rose is scented. Three main types are likely candidates for your wedding flowers: hybrid tea roses (the classic, uniformly-shaped commercial roses generally seen at your local florist), spray roses (a rose with five to ten small heads on each stem and a "natural, garden-grown" look), and garden roses (expensive, old-fashioned varieties with bushy, open heads and delicious scents).

2. Tulip
Although it's most often associated with the Netherlands, this flower is actually a native of Persia. Representing "consuming love" and "happy years," the tulip can be a meaningful wedding choice. The flowers are grown in a wide range of colors, including white and cream; pastels like pink, yellow, and peach; and vibrant hues like magenta, red, and purple. Available during much of the year, the most common tulips are very affordable, though rare varieties can be expensive. The versatile tulip can enhance both elegant wedding settings and more casual venues, and work well in almost any permutation -- from bouquets to boutonnieres to table arrangements. Three main varieties are commonly used: Dutch tulips (typically seen at neighborhood florist shops and in gardens), French tulips (expensive and elegant, with extra-long stems and large tapered blooms), and parrot tulips (noted for their ruffled, striped petals in intense colors).

3. Calla Lily
Also known as the arum lily, this elegant, trumpet-shaped blossom originated in Africa and symbolizes "magnificent beauty" in the language of flowers. The calla lily's distinctive form has been depicted in Art Nouveau and Art Deco works, in addition to twentieth-century photography. Two types are commonly available: a large-headed variety with a long, smooth stem and suitable for tall arrangements or presentation-style bouquets, and a miniature version ideal for nosegays and boutonnieres. Creamy ivory is the most popular color, but calla lilies also come in yellow, orange, mauve-pink, and dark purple.

4. Lily of the Valley
With bell-shape florets dangling from a thin stem, the lily of the valley is sometimes called "the ladder to heaven." The fresh, perfumed scent from its tiny flowers is unmistakable. In Norse mythology, the flower is linked to Ostara, the goddess of springtime, and while most plentiful during this season, it remains available -- and very expensive -- most of the year. So while a fistful of lily of the valley might be your dream, a more affordable alternative may be to use just a few stems to infuse a bouquet or centerpiece with its wonderful fragrance. Most people know of the white variety, but lily of the valley also comes in a very rare rosy-pink.

5. Hydrangeas
With its big bushy head and intense shades of pink, blue, burgundy, and purple, it's no wonder that the hydrangea represented "vanity" in the Victorian language of flowers. One of the most popular varieties changes in color as it grows from bubble-gum pink to sky blue, depending on the acid level of the soil. A stem or two of this moderately priced, scentless shrub flower helps fill out arrangements and bouquets, and a few sprigs make a charming boutonniere. You'll find the hydrangea in white and shades of green, pink, burgundy, and blue.

6. Peony
The peony has a large, full head, strong perfume, and bright color. But despite this outward showiness, the flower acquired the Victorian meaning "bashfulness." Cultivated in Asia for more than a thousand years and developed further by the French, the peony is available in two main types, the herbaceous and the tree peony (the latter's flowers do not last as long when cut). A bouquet made solely of peonies can be gorgeous; the flower can also be used to create beautiful centerpieces and arrangements. Grown in single- and double-flower styles, this expensive bloom is seasonally available from late spring to early summer but can be imported in the fall.

7. Ranunculus
Looking for a cost-effective alternative to roses or peonies? Try the lush, multi-petaled ranunculus, a relative of the buttercup. First seen by Westerners in the Far East around the thirteenth century, this mild-scented flower features several blossoms on a stem with fernlike foliage. To carry ranunculus is to tell your partner, in the Victorian language of flowers, "I am dazzled by your charms." A natural for the bridal bouquet or bridesmaid nosegays, the ranunculus also makes a whimsical boutonniere and is available in many colors including white, yellow, orange, and pink.

8. Stephanotis
The Victorian meaning for this flower is "marital happiness," making the dainty white Stephanotis an obvious choice for weddings. The star-shape, waxy florets actually grow on a flowering vine; each must be individually wired or placed onto a special holder before it can be arranged. A bouquet of stephanotis blossoms is one of the most traditional a bride can carry, and a stephanotis boutonniere is a classic choice for a formal wedding. Mildly scented, moderately priced (but you'll pay for labor if your florist is assembling a bouquet), and available year-round.

9. Sweet Peas
The sweet pea, which signifies "lasting pleasure," was first brought to England from Sicily in 1699, and the English have had a love affair with this delicate flower ever since. Its candy-like scent and ruffled blossoms make this an old-fashioned favorite in bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids. The sweet pea's many colors range from white to intense pinks and purples, and its scent can be strong and sweet.

10. Gardenia
Surrounded by dark green, waxy leaves, the exquisite gardenia exudes a sultry, heavy scent. It was this intoxicating fragrance that captivated an English sea captain traveling through South Africa in 1754, prompting him to bring home one of the native plants as a souvenir. Gardenias are lovely tucked into a bouquet or floating in a low bowl as a centerpiece, and a single gardenia makes a wonderful scented corsage or hair accessory. But be gentle: the delicate, creamy ivory petals of this expensive flower can bruise easily. Large three- to four-inch blossoms, as well as a miniature variety, are available.

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

The Top 7 Most Inexpensive (But Totally Beautiful!) Flowers

Save money with these affordable stems—perfect for your bouquet or centerpiece. Available in different seasons, colors and sizes; these are the most affordable options. Whether you're looking to create a lush romantic arrangement or festive unstructured bouquet, your florist can help you achieve the look you want without compromising your finances.

1. Alstroemeria
Also known as Peruvian Lily, this patterned flower comes in more than 19 different color and marking combinations, ranging from white, to golden yellow, red, pink, and purple.

2. Baby's breath or Gypsophila
It looks gorgeous with long, trailing pastel-colored ribbons for a more ethereal bride, and it's nice to make flower crowns that are quite delicate and airy.

3. Carnation
Carnations typically have an appearance or two at weddings because of their lengthy, sturdy set which is great for tall arrangements, and their reputation as one of the longest-lasting blooms after being cut (hello, wrist corsage!). They also have unique serrated petals which add a great shape to a bouquet.

4. Chrysanthemum
Otherwise known as mums, these pompom-like blooms have lush, exotic blossoms in multiple colors—without the extravagant price tag. Just be sure to specify which type of stem you prefer: Florist mums are the big, spidery blossoms, while garden mums are smaller, more compact flowers.
5. Gladiolus
If centerpieces with height are what you're going for, this tall, ornate blossom fits the bill. It can grow between two and six feet tall, it comes in a range of colors and is striking enough to stand on its own.

6. Sunflower
There's something about sunflowers that just make you feel happy. Big, bright petals add great color to any arrangement. Or take advantage of their strong stalks and place them in unexpected locations around your venue.

7. Wax Flower
Since there are so many blooms on each stem, this little Valley of the Lily look alike flower makes a great filler for bouquets, corsages, bouts, or centerpieces, and come in a range of two-tone colors.

 We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers

FAQs - Wedding Flowers and Florists

1. How far in advance should I contact the florist when ordering wedding flowers?
2. What should I bring to the flower shop when I have my wedding consultation?
3. Is it OK to visit several florists to get estimates?
4. Will a florist work within my budget?
5. What can a florist do to help me stretch my ceremony and reception budget?

How far in advance should I contact the florist when ordering wedding flowers?
Flowers are one of the most important aspects of your wedding day. They set the mood and tone for the event and will be remembered for years to come. Many florists can accept only a set number of weddings on a given day, so it is important to contact your florist well in advance to begin planning. A good rule of thumb is to contact your florist at least three months in advance.

However, if your wedding is going to be an exceptionally elaborate event, take place during peak wedding season or fall on a holiday, then six months to a year is not too soon to contact your florist. This will allow the florist to begin looking for any props or specialty items you might need. Wedding flowers can be highly specific and colors often have to be very precise, so florists need advance notice to place flower orders.

What should I bring to the flower shop when I have my wedding consultation?
The more information you can provide the better your florist will be prepared to offer creative suggestions. Your florist will want to create a spectacular and memorable event for you. Anything you can bring will be beneficial. Pictures that depict what you have in mind are extremely helpful. Bring a photo of your dress and a sample of the fabric or lace if you have it, as well as swatches and photos of the bridesmaids' dresses. Also think about what "style" of wedding you want. If you are not sure, your florist can offer suggestions based on your wedding plans so far.

Is it OK to visit several florists to get estimates?
Sure, but tell the florists that you are gathering estimates rather than making an appointment for a consultation. Be prepared with a detailed list of your floral needs. The florists will be able to give a rough estimate without a lengthy meeting. If you are gathering ideas and then comparisons, it is best to inform the florist of your intentions.

Floral designers are trained and highly skilled floral artists. Their ideas have value. You may be asked to pay a consultation fee if you want to discuss a florist's actual ideas for your wedding. In most cases, the fee will be applied to the flowers once the order is placed.

Will a florist work within my budget?
Be honest about your budget on the initial consultation so the florist knows what to recommend. By taking your budget into consideration from the very beginning of the planning process, the florist can give you the best advise on how to place the flowers for maximum effect and what types of flowers will be the best value to achieve your desired look.

What can a florist do to help me stretch my ceremony and reception budget?
Besides suggesting specific types of flowers that will work within your budget, a professional florist can offer helpful suggestions as to what flowers might be used at both the ceremony and reception.

A few examples: bridesmaids' bouquets can become table decorations; the bride's bouquet can become the head table arrangement; the pew markers can become festive bows on cars or doors; altar designs can flank the buffet or cake table, etc.

Florists are overflowing with creative ways to make use of your budget and flowers wisely.

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

Your Wedding Florist Agreement

Once you have chosen your wedding florist, plan a second appointment to review recommendations and budget.The following are suggested items that should be included in your wedding florist agreement:

1. Name and contact information (mailing address, telephone, cell phone, e-mail address, etc.) for you and the florist.
2. Date, times and locations of your wedding ceremony and reception.
3. An itemized list of all the flower arrangements, number of arrangements, colors and flower preferences.
4. Flower alternatives, should a specific bloom be unavailable for your wedding. Include any unacceptable substitutions.
5. A list of items (vases, trellises, etc.) that the florist will supply. Include the rental, delivery and set-up prices for each, if applicable.
6. Name of the florist/designer who will be delivering and setting up the flowers for your ceremony/reception.
7. Arrival times for set-up at the ceremony/reception sites. Include instructions on who will meet the florist at the sites along with contact numbers.
8. Where and when the bouquets and boutonnieres should be delivered.
9. Total cost and payment schedule.
10. Deposit amount and due date.
11. Balance amount and due date.
12. Cancellation/refund policy.

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers

Hiring a Wedding Florist

Once you've selected the date, time and place for your wedding and reception; Contact your florist. If you aren't familiar with the florists in your area, ask for recommendations from other brides, reception halls or churches. If possible, set up an appointment with the lead designer who will be in charge of filling the order for your wedding flowers.

Look through bridal books and floral guides. Sketch ideas, cut out pictures or take photographs of flowers you like and share them with your florist. Seeing your ideas and personal style will help your florist translate your concepts and special requests into workable floral designs and arrangements that are just right for you.

It will be helpful if you know the colors and style of the gowns you and your bridesmaids will be wearing. Bring pictures of your gown and the bridesmaids dresses, along with swatches of fabric if you have them available.

During your initial consultation with your florist, discuss specific design ideas that fit both your personal style and budget. Make arrangements for your florist to visit both the ceremony and reception sites.

The following are suggested questions to ask when consulting with a wedding florist:
1. What are the current bridal styles and how do you see them being used in my wedding?
2. What are some of the new and exciting flower varieties and are they available in the colors I have selected for my wedding?
3. What flowers will be in season at the time of my wedding?
4. What flowers are available that will be used to fill my order based upon my budget and color preferences?
5. Do you have pictures of arrangements from other weddings you've done at my wedding ceremony/reception site? What size, shape and colors work best at my ceremony/reception site?
6. Will there be sufficient staff to design the arrangements for my wedding and have them delivered on time?
7. How will the flowers be handled, delivered and set-up, taking into consideration the weather constraints for my wedding?
8. Do you preserve bouquets after the wedding?
9. Is there an additional charge for delivery, set-up and servicing my wedding? How are these charges determined?
10. Do you offer rental items (vases, urns, etc.) or do we need to rent them from another company?
11. Are there any extra fees (delivery, set-up, sales tax, etc.)?

We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

What to Tell Your Florist

Florists play a huge role in making life colorful wit flowers and they are experts in many areas but they can’t read minds. So if you have specific flower or color preferences and if you are not familiar with the names of the thousands of flowers available; be sure to communicate that to your florist. By following these simple tips, you can order flowers from a florist with confidence:

1. When ordering floral gifts; describe the recipient's personality type, as well as his/her favorite hobbies or colors if you know them. Your florist can match the floral arrangement with the recipient's personality.
2. Tell your florist if the gift is for a special occasion (birthday, anniversary or other personal milestone). He or she can offer suggestions on how to best celebrate with flowers.
3. If the flowers are for decorating or entertaining, describe the environment where the arrangement will be placed so your florist can create an arrangement that complements the style and colors of your home.
4. Consider bringing in your own vase or container for an added personal touch. Ask your florist for specific colors or color themes.
5. Let your florist know if you prefer a mixed flower arrangement or an arrangement made up of just one type of flower.
6. Provide your florist with the necessary basic information - the name, full address and phone number of the recipient, the delivery date, your card message and payment information.
We Care
Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers.

Alstroemeria Lilies

Alstroemeria commonly called the Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, is a genus of about 50 species of flowering plants in the family Alstroemeriaceae, mainly from the cool, mountainous regions. They are all native to South America although some have become naturalized in the United States, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Madeira and the Canary Islands. Alstroemeria flower is symbolic of wealth, prosperity and fortune. It is also the flower of friendship.

Alstroemeria is a slightly zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetrical) flower with 3 sepals and 3, generally, striped petals. The sepals and petals on the Alstroemeria are similar in color and texture. Alstroemeria is more like grass where the veins go up the leaves but none branching across. Their leaves are upside down. The leaf twists as it leaves the stem, so that the bottom is facing upwards.

Some Species of Alstroemeria Lilies
• Alstroemeria haemantha - Purplespot Parrot Lily
• Alstroemeria ligtu - Lily-of-the-Nile
• Alstroemeria psittacina - Lily of the Incas, White-edged Peruvian Lily/White Alstroemeria
• Alstroemeria pulchella - Parrot Lily, Parrot Flower, Red Parrot Beak, New Zealand Christmas Bell
• Alstroemeria aurea - Lily of the Incas.
• Alstroemeria aurantiaca - Peruvian Lily/Alstroemeria Princess Lily
• Alstroemeria caryophyllacea - Brazilian Lily

Interesting Facts about Alstroemeria Lilies
• Many hybrids and about 190 cultivars of Alstroemeria have been developed, with different markings and colors, ranging from white, golden yellow, orange; to apricot, pink, red, purple and lavender.
• Alstroemeria flowers have no fragrance.
• Alstroemeria flowers have a vase life of about two weeks.
• Not all Alstroemeria have striped petals.
• Alstroemeria stops producing flowers if they get too hot.
• Alstroemeria flowers bloom during late spring or early summer.
• Alstroemeria come in orange, pink, rose, purple, red, yellow, white or salmon colors.
• Alstroemeria is named after the Swedish botanist Klas von Alstroemer, who was a pupil of the great botanical classifier Linnaeus.
• The genus Alstroemeria consists of about 50 species.
• Most modern hybrid Alstroemeria plants are propagated in a laboratory.

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Summer Garden Flowers

Garden beauties thrive in summer heat and bloom nearly nonstop into fall. No doubt you've heard that a well-designed garden should include plants prized for their striking foliage, as well as some that produce fall color or berries, and others that provide good structure in winter. But let’s face it: most people want flowers. Lots of them. All the time. That's where the plants listed below come in. They'll churn out blooms for weeks on end this summer. In most cases, you can harvest armloads to fill vases or give away, and still have plenty left to enjoy in your garden beds for long
Perennial Hibiscus
Also known as rose-mallow and swamp hibiscus, this garden standout was bred from wildflowers native to the East and South. Huge red, pink or white flowers can be as much as a foot across on stems that range from 2 to 8 feet high, depending on the variety. Flowers bloom from late spring until frost. Stems die back to the ground each winter.
Requires full sun; regular to abundant water. Grows as a perennial in zones 5-10.
Gloriosa daisy
Deep golden petals radiate from chocolate centers on 2- to 4-inch-wide flowers. Plants reach 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 ½ feet wide. Shorter varieties such as ‘Goldilocks’ and ‘Toto’ top out at 10 inches tall.
Purple Wave Petunia
Before 1995, when this hybrid was named an All-America Selection winner, gardeners thought of petunias as upright plants. Purple Wave petunias are more like vines—perfect for growing in hanging pots, along retaining walls or even as a ground cover.
Dahlia
Bold blooms in a range of vibrant colors grow from tuberous roots. Planted pink and coral decorative dahlias and a red-and-yellow, cactus-flowered variety. Provide light shade in hot areas. Zones 1-24.
Purple coneflower
Daisy flowers of rosy purple with knobby orange-brown centers, which resemble small beehives, atop clumps of bristly oblong leaves. Grows to 4 feet tall. Zones A2, A3, 1-24.
Globe Amaranth
For year-round enjoyment, these clover-like flower heads are hard to beat. The papery flowers last a long time in the garden and in fresh bouquets, and the blooms are easy to dry for use in wintertime arrangements. Depending on the variety, flowers are white, red, pink, lilac or purple. 'Strawberry Fields,' with bright red blossoms, and 'All Around Purple' are two standouts. Requires full sun to partial shade; moderate water. Grows as an annual in all zones.
Gaura
White flowers cluster like butterflies atop tall spikes on these airy 2½- to 4-foot-tall plants. Selected forms include 'Siskiyou Pink' (to 2 feet tall), with rose-pink flowers and 'Whirling Butterflies' (to 3 feet tall), with white flowers.
'Moonshine' yarrow
One of the most carefree and generous bloomers, yarrow has tight clusters of deep yellow flowers on 2-foot tall plants.
Evergreen Candytuft
Small clusters of delicate white flowers appear in low-growing clumps in spring, and continue into the fall. The shiny, dark-green leaves stay on all winter, so the plant remains attractive year-round. Requires full sun to part shade; regular water. Grows as a perennial in zones 5-9.
Penstemon
These bushy plants are fairly short lived, but to make up for it, they produce lots of trumpet-shaped blooms over a long period. Deep purple ‘Midnight’ and scarlet ‘Firebird’ are standouts for their vivid, south-of-the-border colors. Pink and white ‘Apple blossom’ looks fresh and spring like.

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Solidago Flowers

Solidago, commonly called goldenrods, is a genus of about 100 to 120 species of flowering plants in the aster family, Asteraceae. Solidago a Latin term for the goldenrod plant, whose name means, “to strengthen or make whole”. Most are herbaceous perennial species found in open areas such as meadows, prairies, and savannas. They are mostly native to North America, including Mexico; a few species are native to South America and Eurasia. Some American species have also been introduced into Europe and other parts of the world. 

You will find that the majority of these flowers are actually perennials, which means that they will keep coming back time and time again. These are found all over, and they are more common to North America than anywhere else. However, if you are looking for them, look in places where you wouldn’t expect to see a lot of beautiful flowers. You will find that the solidago will grow in meadows, pastures, and even in ditches alongside the road. This flower is yellow and doesn’t grow tall, it is a cute little flower that looks great and dresses up the roadsides all across America and in places where you would least expect it.
Solidago species are perennials growing from woody caudices or rhizomes. Their stems can be decumbent to ascending or erect, ranging in height from 5 to 100 or more cm. Some species have stems that branch near the top. Some Solidago species are hairless others have strigose, strigillose, hispid, or short-villous hairs.
Solidago virgaurea is an herbaceous perennial plant of the family Asteraceae. It is grown as a garden flower with many different cultivars. Its flowers profusely in late summer.
All About the Solidago Flower
The solidago flower is also known as a goldenrod and that is what most people know it as. This is a beautiful flower that has many uses and something that a lot of people really appreciate for more than just the beautiful color that it offers. Whether you want to grow it, put it in bouquets, or use it for other purposes, the goldenrod or the solidago is a great idea for a flower that you can use for many different things.
Uses for the Solidago Flower
There is a word of warning that should be issued about this flower. For a lot of people it can be the cause of hay fever, so if you are susceptible to that, you probably want to stay away from this plant and you don’t want to put it in your yard. With that said, there are a lot of great uses for the flower. Some people actually use it in tea and it can be edible when it is cooked or boiled, that is a great use for this. Other people will use it to give to people as a sign of good luck and good fortune.

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Challenges Facing Health Quality Production of Cut Flowers

 The present day flower industry is a dynamic and highly international industry. Significant growth rates have been achieved during the past few decades. Trade is dominated by south-north flows with Europe and North-America housing the world’s largest consumer markets, while the producing countries are situated close to the equator. For the past ten years, the five leading global flower exporters in terms of export value of this moment are the Netherlands, Colombia, Kenya, Ecuador and Ethiopia has joined this list, while Israel’s position has weakened. 

These countries are competing with each other on the same markets in Europe, Russia, and North-America and competition is getting tenser every year. This increased rivalry is partly due to stagnating demand, but also as a result of the growing number of large-flowered roses grown in Africa and the generally improving quality of the African products. Since a few years, one of the main challenges facing production of good quality cut flowers is the lack of clean planting material especially among resource poor farmers who resort to multiplying their own propagules with detrimental results. Carnation is an important export crop among farmers in Kenya. Carnation production, however, is constrained by lack of clean planting materials.

Challenges Faced by Small Scale Flower Farms
While most of the products for the export market originate from large producers in Thika, Timau and Naivasha, small scale flower farms in Kenya play a bigger role in the overall sector output.
The global cut flower industry provides a vital income for many people in countries like Kenya and Colombia. In Kenya, agricultural sector is the second income earner after tourism. Flowers are the major exports in the sector among other such as tea and vegetables. This shows how vital flower farming is to the Kenyan economy.
Some challenges are common and others are unique to the farms depending on their location or the type of flower that they are specialized in producing.
1) Poor Working Conditions for Workers
Workers in flower farms have low morale. Their exposure to poor working conditions has reduced their productivity. Some workers have become sick as a result of poor human safety related to handling chemicals. They are also never given proper training on safe use of pesticides and fertilizers.
2) Lack of Pesticide Storage Facilities
Pesticides and fertilizers are some products that a flower farm cannot do without. Small scale producer which cannot afford these facilities face a serious challenge on combating pest and diseases which in turn affects their productivity.
3) Unpredictable Climatic Change
Due to global warming, unpredictable weather changes have been a global issue that has affected most agricultural countries. Areas which were cool are becoming hotter. This has affected the agricultural sector especially flowers farms.
4) Increased Cost Production
Higher power cost, cost of fuel and farm inputs poses cost of production to be higher. This cannot be afforded by most flower farms that are doing their best to produce up to standard flowers for the internal and external market.
5) Lack of Market
Small scale flower farms in Kenya are always faced with the challenge of market insufficiency. Having to compete with already developed farms which are also seeking new markets to diversify from the traditional European markets.

Competitiveness is largely determined by the productivity with which a nation uses its resources. It is not a static concept but dynamic especially in the context of pervasive globalisation. Competition is no longer restricted to costs and price but increasingly plays out on multiple fronts: connectivity, standards and certifications, quality and innovation, exploitation of cultural and geographic endowments, etc. Because these new fronts are constantly changing and reshaping, a competitiveness strategy should be dynamic and should simultaneously engage diverse institutions and agents that are linked at various levels on various dimensions. With market constraints becoming increasingly complicated while worldwide supply grows and consumption stagnates, profit margins for flower producers are shrinking by the year. This is a real Global Competitiveness of the Kenya Flower Industry. Kenya must maintain its competitive edge in the global flower sector over competitors both nearby and far away. The only way is to continuously increase competitiveness.

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Eagle-Link Flowers Exports Flowers of Premium Quality to Our Clients Worldwide. Fresh cut flower like Roses, Spray Roses, Carnation, Chrysanthemum, Lilies & Fillers; for Major Floral Outlets, Supermarkets, Wholesale Markets likeAuctions, Florists and Flower Shops, weddings and Events Planners, Resorts and Individual Customers