Recent discussions within the horticulture and floriculture community have revealed a concerning trend: many vital university-based research programs are at risk of significant setbacks, threatening to undo years of progress and innovation.
In the April issue of Greenhouse Grower Magazine, editor Brian Sparks highlighted the impact of ongoing federal funding freezes on horticultural research efforts across the country. The American Floral Endowment (AFE) subsequently conducted a targeted survey to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by researchers.
Leading institutions reported a range of issues, including rescinded job offers, halted graduate student funding, hiring freezes, and disruptions to long-term research projects. Some anticipate losing over $1 million in future federal support, while others are forced to scale back programs that took decades to establish.
This crisis is not confined to universities; it is an industry-wide problem. The sector has long depended on innovations and expertise developed through federally supported research. These programs provide the foundation for growers, breeders, and allied businesses, covering areas such as pest management, sustainability practices, and workforce training.
However, with current funding uncertainties, the responsibility must shift to the industry itself. It is now up to the industry to ensure that essential research continues. The industry must support those who rely on funding for research and education, as their work is crucial for advancing the sector. Floriculture/horticulture students, faculty, and researchers all depend on the Endowment’s programs for innovation, education, and growth, which in turn drive the future of floriculture.
For over 60 years, AFE has provided steady and reliable funding for floriculture research and education, independent of political cycles or budget cuts. They have helped advance biocontrols, improve postharvest handling, breed stronger crops, and prepare the next generation of horticultural scientists. Many of the techniques used in floriculture and horticulture production today are the direct result of AFE-funded research. However, they cannot continue to do this alone.
As one survey respondent stated, “We need AFE to increase the amount of research funding they award.” AFE agrees but emphasizes that meeting this need depends on broader industry engagement. Every grower, supplier, and business that benefits from horticultural innovation must play a role. Failure to act risks losing not just research, but entire programs, departments, and the future leaders of the field. Supporting research is an investment in the future of horticulture and floriculture, and the time to act is now.
To continue expanding their capacity to support research funding and other important programs, AFE has launched its annual fundraising campaign—R.I.S.E. to Support—from May 15 through June 30. This campaign directly supports research, education, and talent development programs that benefit all segments of the industry, including growers, retailers, breeders, allied businesses, and more.
Whether individuals participate as campaign sponsors or make a one-time personal or corporate contribution, their support sends a powerful message: the floriculture industry is committed to its own future. All donations are tax-deductible and go directly toward solving real-world challenges such as pest and disease management, labor shortages, postharvest handling, and sustainability, while also providing scholarships and internships to train the next generation of floral professionals.
