These are the principal findings from the 2002 Horticultural Economic and Statistical Report, prepared for the Committee for Horticulture by economic and strategic advisor John Ogier.

Ogier said there was significant growth in both plant production and flowers by post. And new sections in the pharmaceutical and seed areas should emerge to produce high value crops.

He commented: 'The areas of modern glass are particularly important in this respect. Another important aspect is the development of new markets and the production of crops for known market demand. It is anticipated that traditional means of marketing cut flower crops through the UK wholesale markets will continue to decline.' The report states that horticultural exports were valued at £45.5million. And with plant production expected to gross £24.4m this year, this sector now represents 53 per cent of the industry. There is also growth in the cut flower business, and postal flower trade has increased to more than £6m since 1976. However, local investment in horticulture is still very low.

The report concludes that more young plants should be grown for plant export markets, and the quality assurance scheme should be developed for cut flowers.

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