Fluctuating weather conditions have caused a surge in prices and a shortage of local jasmine flowers this Mother’s Day, as reported by local sources.
In Khon Kaen, many florists at Thetsabarn 1 Fresh Market have resorted to importing most of their stock from Indonesia due to its lower prices.
A 65-year-old florist, known only as Noorian, explained that the jasmine flowers have struggled to bloom this year because of continuous rainfall. “Thai jasmine flowers are priced at 1,500 baht per kilogram, whereas Indonesian jasmine flowers cost 1,000 baht per kilogram. Finding Thai jasmine flowers has been particularly challenging this year,” she stated.
Another local, an 82-year-old garland maker named Malasri, mentioned that she has had to substitute jasmine with white flowers, such as the buds of dok pud (Tabernaemontana pandacaqui), due to the scarcity.
Jasmine holds significant symbolic value for Mother’s Day, as its white color and long-lasting fragrance represent purity and love.
Typically, jasmine prices during the off-peak season range from 300 to 600 baht per kilogram, depending on size. However, this year, prices have increased dramatically, sometimes reaching four times the usual amount. In Nakhon Ratchasima, a kilogram of jasmine can sell for between 2,400 and 2,600 baht.
In other news, government spokesman Chai Wacharonke has invited the public to participate in Mother’s Day celebrations at Sanam Luang today. Attendees can offer alms to 193 monks and novices at 7:30 AM, followed by a birthday ceremony for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother at 7:19 PM, he announced. Celebrations in honor of the Queen Mother will also take place at city halls across the country.
People are encouraged to send their well wishes for Her Majesty via the Bureau of the Royal Household’s website (www.royaloffice.th) until tomorrow.
