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Reducing Peat Use in Container Production, Layer by Layer

The floriculture industry is constantly looking for ways to improve sustainability, and one hot topic is reducing the use of peat moss. Thanks to recent American Floral Endowment funded research from Dr. Jeb Fields and his team at the University of Florida, growers will soon have an easier, more affordable way to reduce peat use without compromising plant quality: substrate stratification, particularly with the use of wood fiber. What Is Substrate Stratification? With stratification, you can think of the pot as a layer cake. Stratification means using different potting media in layers, typically with different media on the top and on the bottom. In this research, the top layer remains peat-based, retaining its excellent growing properties, but the bottom layer…

Young Professionals Council Celebrates 10 Years

This year marks the ten-year anniversary of the Young Professionals Council (YPC), founded in 2015 to connect, inspire, and empower the next generation of leaders in the floral industry. For a decade, the YPC has provided opportunities where emerging professionals can build skills, expand networks, volunteer, and find encouragement from peers who share their passion for the industry. To honor this milestone, a special 10-year anniversary highlight video features YPC members sharing why they love being part of the council. Their reflections capture the true spirit of the YPC: a welcoming community, a place to learn from one another, a resource hub for professional development, and a network that turns professional connections into lasting friendships. From gaining confidence through leadership…

Educational Grants Fueling Growth

Supporting education that inspires, informs, and prepares the floral industry for a bright future is one of AFE’s core funding programs. This year, 17 organizations were awarded educational grants totaling $60,700.  The majority of AFE-funded projects are wide-reaching and focus on attracting young people to the industry, or are educational endeavors to identify and solve industry needs and challenges. This year’s funding will support a diverse range of programs, from hands-on workshops and courses, to national conferences and online training that connect people and ideas. “Educational opportunities are a cornerstone of industry growth,” said AFE Education Committee Chair, Adam Van Winkle of Stadium Flowers. “With the continued support of our donors, these grants open doors for students, professionals, and organizations…

New Trustees, Committee Chairs, and Outgoing Board Members

We are pleased to welcome two new Trustees to its Board of Trustees, effective September 1, 2025. These accomplished industry leaders bring valuable expertise, fresh perspectives, and a strong commitment to supporting the future of floriculture. Their involvement will help guide AFE’s strategic direction and enhance the impact of our funding and programs across all segments of the industry. We are also recognizing new Committee Chair appointments and outgoing Trustees.  AFE Trustees generously volunteer their time and expertise, serving a three-year term with the option to renew for an additional term. They actively participate in all AFE meetings and events, covering their own travel expenses. We look forward to the leadership and insight these new Trustees will bring and extend our sincere thanks…

New Members Appointed to the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund Committee

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund Committee is pleased to announce three new committee members' appointments. Under the new partnership announced in 2024, the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation joined with the American Floral Endowment (AFE) as a named fund to continue the mission and legacy of the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation. Since its inception in 1960, the Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation has contributed over $7.5 million to support floriculture research initiatives. The new Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund committee, comprised of the former Gloeckner Foundation Board members, continues this legacy through AFE, awarding grants for research and educational projects in floriculture and related fields at universities, colleges, and research institutions in the United States. The committee is composed…

Thank You, 2025 Scholarship Reviewers!

At AFE, we're deeply committed to supporting the next generation and sharing with them the many exciting careers and possibilities within the floral industry. However, recognizing that the cost of education can be a major hurdle for students, our scholarship program is designed to ease that burden and empower as many students as possible each year. We are excited to share that in 2025-2026, we will be awarding scholarships to 22 students for a total of $74,000. “With over 130 scholarship applications this year, a 23% increase compared to last year, it’s exciting to see the numbers of students studying and preparing to join the workforce," says AFE Program Manager Candice Musgrove. Notifications are going out to all applicants, and…

Highlighting the Success of Former Interns & Scholars

For decades, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) has supported the floriculture industry through research and education that have been instrumental in improving the sector’s future outlook. But just as important are the financial and hands-on opportunities our programs provide for the industry's future workforce.  “Our internships and scholarships are a way in which up-and-coming industry professionals can further their education and experience. But for the industry as a whole, they also provide solid ground in developing a talent pipeline that will ensure the industry remains strong and thriving for decades to come,” said Debi Chedester, CAE, AFE's Executive Director. As National Intern Day is celebrated around the country on July 31, we are celebrating the tremendous impact internships provided through AFE…

A New Era for Giving: Why Industry Support Matters More Than Ever

New Tax Rules & Industry Needs Make Giving More Important Than Ever As the floral industry continues to face rising research costs, persistent labor shortages, and increasing competition for young talent, one thing is clear: we can no longer rely on uncertain federal funding or outdated support systems to fuel growth and innovation. Now more than ever, the industry must take responsibility for investing in its future, and that begins with supporting nonprofit charitable organizations like the American Floral Endowment (AFE). For over 60 years, AFE has been the floral industry’s trusted source for funding groundbreaking research, offering scholarships and internships to develop the next generation, and supporting industry-wide education. These programs don’t just happen – they depend on contributions…

R.I.S.E. to Support Fundraising Campaign Surpasses Goal

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is thrilled to announce that their annual fundraiser, R.I.S.E. to Support 2025, has surpassed its goal, raising over $130,000 for the floral industry. This remarkable achievement highlights the unwavering commitment and unity of the floral industry in advancing growth through research, education, scholarships, and internships.  From May 15 to June 30, 2025, the fully virtual campaign engaged the floral community in support of the Endowment’s core programs. The theme of R.I.S.E. – Research, Internships, Scholarships, and Education – underscores AFE’s dedication to nurturing every facet of the floral sector. This year’s goal was set at $100,000, and thanks to the generosity of sponsors and contributors, we raised an impressive $136,000 from over 115 dedicated donors. You can see the…

Memorial Tribute Established Honoring Frank Biddle

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of floral industry champion Frank Biddle. A memorial tribute has been created through the American Floral Endowment (AFE) honoring Francis “Frank” Biddle, who passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 60. The tribute was established by Frank’s industry friends Steve Dionne of Wafex USA, Chris Drummond of Penny’s by Plaza Flowers, Greg Coleman of Mayfield Florist, and Ken Young of Phoenix Flower Shops in recognition of his leadership, innovation, and lifelong dedication to the floral industry. Frank was a bold and visionary entrepreneur whose influence helped reshape floral commerce across the Americas. After earning a degree in International Studies from Juniata College and relocating to southern California, Frank…

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