Flower crop protection in the Netherlands and Africa: how does it work in practice?

Florists worldwide share the same goal: to provide customers with healthy flowers and plants—free from diseases or pests—that offer the longest possible vase life. To achieve this, a plan is used: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – a strategy that emphasizes prevention and natural solutions, with chemical treatments used only as a last resort. However, the subject remains sensitive and often shrouded in myths, with public debates blending facts, opinions, and fears.

Explanations of terms used in the article:

• IPM (Integrated Pest Management) – a smart crop protection plan based on prevention and natural solutions, using chemicals only as a last resort.
• MPS / GLOBALG.A.P / Fairtrade – international certifications guaranteeing that flowers are produced responsibly, with care for people and the environment.
• Active substances – the main ingredients in a pesticide or treatment that directly combat pests or diseases.

How is crop protection used?

Crop protection serves to prevent and combat plant pests or diseases. An IPM plan entails strict hygiene, constant crop monitoring, and the use of natural predators or traps before resorting to chemicals. In the European Union, IPM is mandatory for all certified producers. Similarly, in Kenya and Ethiopia, over 80% of growers adhere to these same international standards, bringing added transparency and trust to the supply chain.

Regulations and differences between Europe and Africa

Although the principle is the same—substances must be effective and safe for humans, animals, and the environment—the approval process varies from country to country. In Europe, the assessment is conducted by EFSA, and individual states—such as the Netherlands via the Ctgb—may impose additional rules. In Kenya, the process is overseen by the Pest Control Products Board (PCPB), and in Ethiopia by the Plant Health Regulatory Directorate (PHRD). In all cases, growers adhere to EU lists and global standards (GLOBALG.A.P., MPS, Fairtrade), and failure to comply results in the loss of certifications.

Concrete results in floriculture

Flower growers have significantly reduced the use of harmful substances:

• in the Netherlands, the use of the most polluting substances has dropped by 96% for potted plants and 88% for cut flowers since 2015;
• in Kenya, the reduction is 58% since 2019;
• in Ethiopia, the reduction reaches 56% over the same period.

These figures confirm that the floriculture industry is making great strides toward a more sustainable future, with products verified through independent analyses and strict certifications.

A green and transparent future

Florists worldwide—whether in Europe or Africa—are taking responsibility for reducing their environmental impact and ensuring flowers remain clean and safe for consumers. New organic crop protection products are being developed rapidly, and international collaboration is accelerating their adoption. Through transparency, innovation, and cooperation, the floral industry is building a more sustainable future—a model that Romanian florists can also follow to meet the demands of modern customers.