| Product | Official document | Publisher |
|---|---|---|
| Carnations, Chrysanthemums, Gladiolus, and Roses | Inspection Instructions | USDA Agricultural Marketing Service |
| Cut Peonies (in the bud) | Grades and Standards | USDA Agricultural Marketing Service |
| Gladiolus corms (bulbs) | Grades and Standards | USDA Agricultural Marketing Service |
| Asparagus plumosus (floral greenery) | Grades and Standards | USDA Agricultural Marketing Service |
Values marked "See source" have no single authoritative figure; follow the linked source for the latest published data.
Frequently asked questions
Are U.S. grade standards for flowers mandatory?
No. The USDA states they are voluntary; they provide a uniform language for describing quality and condition.
Which cut flowers have U.S. grade standards?
The USDA AMS Flowers & Plants section lists standards and inspection instructions covering carnations, chrysanthemums, gladiolus and roses, cut peonies, gladiolus corms, and asparagus plumosus greenery.
How do grade standards relate to freshness?
The standards describe quality and condition — the characteristics a buyer can inspect. They are not a shelf-life guarantee, and the published documents supersede earlier ones, so always read the current version.
Can I cite a grade when I buy flowers?
You can ask a supplier whether a shipment was graded, but most retail bouquets are not sold against a U.S. grade. The standards are most useful in wholesale and inspection contexts.
Sources
- Flowers & Plants — Grades and Standards — USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
- Carnations, Chrysanthemums, Gladiolus, and Roses — Inspection Instructions — USDA Agricultural Marketing Service
- Cut Peonies in the Bud — Grades and Standards — USDA Agricultural Marketing Service