Mother’s Day Alert!

As if Trump’s tariffs weren’t already putting a damper on Christmas, now it seems they’re set to rain on Mother’s Day too. Trump’s erratic tariff policies are taking a toll on imported goods, including flowers and all the fancy vases and containers that come with them, imported from China.

Did you know that a whopping 80% of the flowers we enjoy in the United States are actually imported? In 2024 alone, we imported over $2.2 billion worth of greens and cut flowers, mostly from South America. That’s a whole lot of petals!

For small businesses like Indiana florist Phil Hurlbutt’s Flower Cart LLC, which imports goodies from Canada and Ecuador, Trump’s tariffs could mean a hefty increase in expenses – up to 125%! Ouch.

And it’s not just flowers feeling the pinch. Trump’s tariffs are hitting Americans where it hurts – in their wallets. The National Federation of Independent Business found that 30% of businesses planned to raise prices after Trump’s tariff announcement. So, whether you’re tying the knot, tossing your cap at graduation, or picking out a bouquet for Mother’s Day, be prepared to shell out a little extra cash.

Looks like Trump’s trade war is blooming into a full-blown flower fiasco. So, this Mother’s Day, show your mom some extra love – she deserves it, especially with those flower prices on the rise!