Ornamental plant market in Dona Euzébia - MG: production, commercialization and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract With the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic, different areas were affected, with positive or negative effects, as a function of the conditions imposed above all by gardening activities. This brought effects on the production of ornamental plants. In this context, the objective of this study was to analyse the situation of production, commercialization and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the ornamental plants market in the city of Dona Euzébia-MG. A questionnaire with objective and discursive questions was applied to the city producers (30). The production of seedlings in Dona Euzébia is economically and socially important. Most producers have properties with 5 hectares, are in activity for a range of 5 to 19 years and have between 2 to 5 employees. With the onset of the pandemic, the market for seedlings and ornamental plants in Dona Euzébia was positively modified, with an increase in plant sales, which led to changes in production and in the sales process. During the period, producers took all measures to prevent the spread of the virus. The interviews showed that ornamental plants were among the main species cultivated and among the most sought during the pandemic period analyzed in this study. Furthermore, despite the restrictions and the uncertain scenario, there is optimism among producers, especially in terms of post-pandemic sales.