The situation in the production of cempasuchil in Mexico presents significant contrasts between different regions. In San Lorenzo Tlacotepec, State of Mexico, floriculturists face severe problems due to excess moisture caused by the rains. Alan Ricardo Cruz Cruz, belonging to a third-generation family of floriculturists, mentions that diseases have increased by 50 to 60 percent this year due to the weather, which has delayed flowering and affected the production of cempasuchil.
The climate of San Lorenzo is decisive, forcing many producers to resort to greenhouses to protect their crops from the cold and the usual frosts at the end of September and early October. Flooding in regions such as Guerrero and Michoacán has also complicated the situation for floriculturists, according to Cuauhtémoc Rivera, president of ANPEC.
In contrast, in the Valley of Toluca, Leticia Guzmán Morales points out a less alarming situation. Although she indicates that prices could rise due to the flooding and increase in rainfall, she reports relative stability compared to other producing areas. The rainy season has not negatively impacted production in the Valley of Toluca, as planting begins in May, three months before the rains become more intense.
On the other hand, in Puebla, another important producer of cempasuchil, farmers have faced challenges due to prolonged droughts followed by sudden rains that disrupted crop cycles. These adverse climate changes have caused an increase in the price of cempasuchil flowers nationwide.
Cuauhtémoc Rivera warns of a 40 percent increase in the price of the flower compared to the previous year, which impacts both producers and consumers. Under unfavorable weather conditions, including intense rains and flooding, the price of the iconic cempasuchil flower has experienced a significant increase, rising from 25 pesos for five flowers in 2023 to possibly 35 pesos this year, affecting the Day of the Dead celebrations.
