Sale at flower market peaks during Tamil New Year; prices decreased after three days

CHENNAI: Almost two years after the pandemic, the flower market at Koyambedu wholesale market witnessed a brisk sale during the Tamil New Year. Also, as the festival season ended, prices of flowers decreased by 20 per cent at the market on Saturday.

"During the pandemic and post relaxations, the flower business was dull as nobody celebrated any festival in a grand manner or none of temples were functional. In addition, with no sale here, many vendors set up their own shops purchased directly from the farmers. So, we were badly affected all these days. At least over 10 tonnes of flowers were dumped daily," said S Mookandi, a wholesale flower trader at Koyambedu wholesale market.

"For the past three days, there were brisk sales and even the prices went up due to demand. We are happy after a long hiatus," he added.

As the festival season ended, the demand for flowers has also come down. Accordingly, prices decreased by at least by 20 per cent. Traders said that till May both the sale and rates would remain stable or further reduce.

"Due to shortage in supply, the prices reduced by 10 - 20 per cent today. However, at least for a month, there are no muhurtham days, temple festivals. Likewise, even the business is expected to be dull, which led to further decrease in prices of various flowers here," said Rajan K, another trader at Koyambedu market.

Currently, Jasmine is being sold for Rs 240 - Rs 300 per kg, tuberose Rs 100 per kg, marigold Rs 160 per kg, rose Rs 60 - 80 per kg, panner rose Rs 80 - Rs 100 per kg. The arrival of Jasminum sambac (mulla) is expected to begin in the next 15 days