Certified American Grown Becomes Independent Trade Association

Certified American Grown, a diverse coalition of small to large cut flower and greens farms across the United States, has transitioned from a marketing and governmental relations group under the auspices of the California Cut Flower Commission to an independent trade association representing cut flower and greens farmers nationwide.

The reimagined organization is the only floral organization that certifies the origin of the flowers and greens the members grow, process, package and market. Membership in the refreshed organization is building as farmers seek to connect with the past efforts of Certified American Grown to open markets, increase sales of domestic cut flowers and greens, and share the “origin matters” message with consumers.

As a trade association, Certified American Grown will continue its efforts to lobby on behalf of cut flower and greens farms in Washington, D.C., sponsor American Grown Flowers Month in July, host the annual American Grown Field to Vase Dinner Tour, and give consumers confidence in the source of their flowers and greens by providing the only third-party guarantee in the floral industry validating bouquets and bunches purchased were actually homegrown.

“I’m flattered and humbled to have been elected the first char of the new independent Certified American Grown organization. I’ve enjoyed working with members of the Certified American Grown Council in the past and was thrilled when council members agreed to be part of our new board,” said Rita Jo Schultz, owner of Alaska Perfect Peony.

“This will be an innovative group to watch and I look forward to an exciting future for our new, independent association,” added Dave Pruitt, administrator of Certified American Grown. “We’re excited to continue to connect people to the amazing flowers and greens grown right here in the U.S. and to grow consumers’ bond to a product that connects and brings joy to so many.”

Cut flower and greens farmers, industry vendors and potential contributors for Certified American Grown’s initiatives can reach out to Anna Kalins at info@americangrownflowers.org for more information.

To learn more about Certified American Grown, visit americangrownflowers.org.