The effect of COVID 19 on the indoor ornamental plants sector: An investigation in terms of consumer, middleman and producer

Indoor ornamental plants provide aesthetic, functional, and ecological benefits, and they also positively impact the physical and mental health of users. The effects of these benefits were particularly felt during the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, leading to social isolation. During this period, engaging with nature and plants became one way to cope with the challenges of isolation. However, studies on the production and consumption of indoor ornamental plants during the pandemic have been limited. This study aims to analyze the demand for indoor ornamental plants during and after the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspectives of consumers, producers, and intermediaries, identifying changes in demand and their reasons to provide contributions that can guide the sector. While the consumer profile is examined nationwide, the province of Yalova has been chosen as a sample area for the producer and intermediary profile. The survey with consumers was conducted online, while face-to-face interviews were held with producers and intermediaries in Yalova. According to the results obtained from the interviews, the majority of both producers and intermediaries reported a decrease in sales during the pandemic. Among consumers, those who stated that their interest in indoor ornamental plants did not change formed the majority, followed by those who reported an increased interest. The proportion of those who reported a decrease in interest was quite low. The results show consistency from the perspectives of producers, intermediaries, and consumers.