A GROUP of growers and horticulture industry members are getting together to promote the little-known cut flowers industry in Scotland.

Mark Clark of farmer co-op Grampian Growers is working with eight other growers from across Scotland in a Soil Association Scotland-led Rural Innovation Support Service (RISS) group.

Through Clark, the RISS members are linked to a horticulture industry group set up to increase knowledge of the sector amongst policy makers.

Microgrower and RISS group member Arianne Knowles, who runs Flourish Ayrshire from her 14-acre smallholding Roadinghead near Cumnock, is part of this group.

Arianne said: “Through selling at a local farm shop I’ve met a local florist who wants to reduce flower miles and loves the idea of sourcing close by.

“There’s a tale of old that somehow British flowers are wildflowers that wither quickly, but actually they have an excellent vase life. The imported ones you buy only last because they’re treated with a load of chemicals.

“There’s a story to be told about our produce that links up with the story about food and drink in Scotland.

“Through the RISS group I’ve met a sheep farmer who’s wanting to diversify into flowers, for example. It fits in with what we should be doing – localising, and becoming more sustainable.”

Mark agreed, saying: “There is little data on the cut flower sector in Scotland, but the big florists say there’s not enough local supply for weddings and events, even during COVID, and they’re desperate to source locally.

“With COVID and with Brexit it’s all about the short supply chains and bringing people together.”