Prayagraj Rose Prices Skyrocket as Cold Weather Delays Production During Peak Demand Season
The floral markets of Prayagraj are witnessing an unprecedented surge in rose prices, with retail rates reaching staggering levels of Rs 450 to Rs 550 per bundle of 20 roses in early February. This represents nearly double the prices observed during the same period last year, creating significant challenges for consumers and event planners during the ongoing wedding season and approaching festivals.
Weather Woes Disrupt Traditional Harvesting Cycles
Flower cultivators in the trans-Yamuna pocket of Prayagraj, renowned as a prominent rose belt, have identified unusually cold winter conditions as the primary culprit behind the current supply crunch. The winter of 2025 has been significantly colder than that of 2024, according to multiple growers, which has dramatically slowed plant growth and delayed peak harvesting cycles.
"The intense cold has substantially delayed production this year," explained Madhukar, a local flower seller. "Roses are still standing in greenhouses and are simply not ready for harvest. This has created a severe reduction in market availability precisely when demand traditionally peaks."
This weather disruption has prevented full-scale production from commencing, creating a perfect storm of limited supply coinciding with traditionally high demand periods.
Demand-Supply Imbalance Forces Creative Sourcing Solutions
The significant gap between demand and available supply has not only driven prices upward but has also forced event decorators and floral arrangers to seek alternatives. Many professionals have begun sourcing roses from neighboring districts and even adjacent states to meet their requirements for weddings, Mahashivratri celebrations, and the approaching Valentine's Day.
This situation presents a stark contrast to the previous year, when warmer winter conditions in 2024 facilitated early production, ensuring ample availability during the first half of February. Interestingly, flower growers had actually planned for staggered production this year to avoid market oversupply, but the unexpectedly intense cold in December thwarted these careful preparations.
Export Market Remains Robust Despite Domestic Challenges
Amid the domestic supply challenges, traders report that several Indian rose varieties continue to attract steady interest from international markets. This overseas demand is supported by competitive pricing and notably improved quality, according to industry insiders.
"Quality remains the paramount factor for attracting exporters," stated a Meja-based rose grower. "There is consistently high demand for Indian rose varieties, and this demand is further bolstered by improved quality resulting from favorable winter conditions. The clear weather has enabled growers to achieve superior stem length and more vibrant coloration in their blooms."
The grower further emphasized that demand remains strong for both classic red roses and various colored varieties, with exporters operating throughout the year and handling substantial orders. However, if the current production delays and high demand persist, prices during Valentine's Day could become even more expensive per bundle, potentially affecting both domestic celebrations and export commitments.
