AFE Trustees Visit UC Davis to See Research and Philanthropy in Action

Last month, members of our Board of Trustees and Staff had the opportunity to visit the University of California, Davis to see firsthand how AFE-funded research is advancing innovation for the floriculture industry. UC Davis, ranked among the top universities globally for agriculture and forestry, has long been a hub for cutting-edge agricultural research. During the visit, faculty and graduate students shared updates on their AFE-funded research and related collaborative efforts aimed at addressing key industry challenges. The day began with an overview of drone imaging technology. Dr. Christian Nansen and his team showcased how aerial imaging and remote sensing tools can help monitor crop health, detect stress or pest issues earlier, and eventually provide growers with more precise data…

New Officers & Trustees Appointed

The American Floral Endowment (AFE) is pleased to announce the new Chairman of the Board, Officers, and Trustees appointments effective September 1, 2024. AFE Officers and Trustees play a crucial role in setting the long-term strategic direction of the Endowment’s research and educational programs and resources, offering their unique knowledge to assist in carrying out our mission.  Trustees volunteer their time and experience, participate in all AFE events and meetings, and travel at their own expense. They are elected by the Board’s Nominating Committee and serve a three-year term with the option of an additional three-year term. Additionally, a new Young Professionals Council Advisor to the Board has been named. New Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee Appointments David…

AFE’s 2024 Fundraising Campaign: R.I.S.E. to Support!

R.I.S.E. up to support the floral industry! In an effort to continue to increase support for important research, education, and other floriculture programs to advance our industry, the American Floral Endowment (AFE) has launched its annual fundraising campaign running from May 15th through June 28th with a goal of $100,000 in industry support.  The Endowment's annual summer campaign theme touts the overall tagline of R.I.S.E., representing AFE’s core programs: Research, Internships, Scholarships, and Education for the floral industry. These resources are vital to the ongoing growth of floral; the Endowment is welcoming the industry to R.I.S.E. up with us to help fund ongoing success and support for all segments, ages, and levels. You can check out the campaign launch video featuring industry supporters and AFE's Chairman, Ken Young of Phoenix Flower Shops, by clicking here. Make a…

Spring Hiring Campaign Kicks Off to Tackle Labor Challenges

The AFE Career Center provides valuable online career tools, resources, and industry guides tailored to both individuals seeking opportunities in the floral industry and employers looking to expand their staff. The Center provides the most up-to-date job listings, real-time job alerts, networking opportunities, and free tools to help both candidates and employers during the job search. Since its launch in 2020 by AFE, engagement has more than doubled in both job views and active applications.  Calling All Job-Seekers! Explore an array of resources including resume tips, reviews, and a centralized job openings hub at afecareercenter.com. Be entered to win 1 of 3 $50 Amazon gift cards by uploading your resume by April 23rd! Uploading your resume means employers can reach out to you directly with inquiries…

Celebrating AFE’s 2022 Research #Eras

Some of you may have seen people talking about their 2022 “Eras” on TikTok or other social media platforms. (By the way, AFE is on TikTok – follow us at @AmericanFloralEndowment) An era, in this sense, is a lighthearted and often humorous way to look at an important phase, event, or milestone that happened during the year. As we wrap up 2022 and look back on AFE’s research accomplishments, I thought it might be fun to put our own twist on this trend and share some of our standout #2022Eras.#InvestmentEra:AFE-funded university researchers, along with the help of highly talented graduate students, work with all segments of the floral industry to understand challenges and identify solutions in order to prepare for…

Microbial Inoculants: Fighting Mission Impossible

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to incorporate sustainable practices into your growing operation. While not life-threatening, many still believe this mission to be impossible. Research funded by AFE is here to prove otherwise.MI: JUST THE FACTSMicrobial Inoculants (MI’s) are agricultural amendments that use beneficial bacteria and/or fungi to promote plant health. Sometimes by forming symbiotic relationships with host plants and other times by using up all excess nutrients, MI can prevent a wide range of soil-borne pathogens that cause serious crop loss.MI’s are a widely marketed form of biocontrol, with more than 80 commercially available products, and are considered much more environmentally friendly than traditional fungicides. But growers have always wondered if they actually work.Research ResultsLate…

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