How to Source Fresh Roses from Kenya

Choose single head roses or spray roses

Single head roses are specified around the individual bloom and stem; spray roses carry multiple smaller blooms on a stem and need an agreed appearance standard. Choose based on your bouquet recipe, florist brief or wholesale customer demand rather than assuming the two are interchangeable.

Zavora lists both rose types. For a programme, provide named varieties where required and describe acceptable colour alternatives. Availability is confirmed per enquiry, so avoid advertising an unconfirmed assortment to your customers.

Check the rose lines in the product catalogue before sending a variety and colour shortlist.

Write a rose specification that removes ambiguity

Include stem length, head condition, straightness, foliage condition and opening stage. A word such as premium is not a measurable grade unless both sides agree what it means. Record tolerances for defects and variation.

Ask for the exact number of stems in a bunch and box, plus box dimensions. For spray roses, discuss the required flowering appearance and whether the proposed assortment matches the look your customers expect.

• Rose type and requested variety or colour
• Stem length and agreed grade tolerances
• Opening stage and visible condition at packing
• Stems per bunch, bunches per box and label information

Agree the substitution and shortage process

Harvest conditions can change what is available. State which alternatives you will accept and which require approval. A red rose of a different variety or a shorter stem is not automatically an equivalent substitute.

Ask the supplier to confirm shortages before packing and explain whether they affect shipment timing or freight costs. Programme orders benefit from clear communication rules, not promises that every variety will always be in stock.

Check packing and the journey to your warehouse

Rose sleeves and carton layout should protect heads and stems while allowing the agreed handling plan. Ask how bunches are secured and how a mixed-colour order is identified. Overpacking can make an apparently cheaper box less useful at arrival.

Confirm handling instructions and the proposed routing. The aim is to limit damaging delays and unsuitable conditions across the full journey, including clearance and collection. Ask for evidence of any temperature-monitoring service rather than assuming it is automatically included.

Discuss rose grading and packing through Zavora’s quality assurance and export logistics services before confirming your order.

Inspect the first rose delivery methodically

Reconcile the packing list with box labels, then inspect counts, stem lengths, heads and foliage. Follow the agreed receiving and hydration instructions and record conditions before reselling or rearranging the flowers.

Use the feedback to refine the next assortment. Compare cost per saleable stem rather than price per unopened box, and do not treat one successful arrival as a guarantee of a fixed vase life for every future consignment.

Request a rose sourcing quotation with your specification, target volume and destination airport.

Frequently asked questions

What information is needed to buy fresh roses from Kenya?

State single head or spray roses, variety or colour, stem length, grade, packed counts, quantity, destination airport and required arrival date.

Can I substitute single head roses with spray roses?

Only if that substitution fits your buyer’s specification and is explicitly agreed. The bloom appearance and use are different.

Is rose vase life guaranteed by origin?

No. Variety, harvest and handling conditions, transit and receiving care affect performance. Agree quality criteria instead of assuming a fixed vase life.

Plan for your destination market

Buying from Kenya for Africa, Europe, the Middle East or Asia? Start with the relevant regional guide, then confirm your country’s product eligibility, documents, airport handling and proposed routing. Regional guidance is not a guarantee of supply, direct flights or destination approval.

• Africa buyer guide
• Europe buyer guide
• Middle East buyer guide
• Asia buyer guide

Sources and further checks

Import requirements can change. Verify current rules for your product and destination with the relevant authority and your clearing agent before ordering.

• KEPHIS — exporter registration and traceability checks
• European Commission — importing plants and plant products from non-EU countries

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