BLOGS

How I Found My Passion in the Floriculture Industry

It has been a journey of tremendous learning, understanding how each stakeholder forms an essential link in this chain.

By: CARIDAD SÁENZ | 09-07-2025 | 3 min read
Flowers
WFFSA event Ecuadorian colleagues

I am Caridad Sáenz, born into a family where agriculture and the countryside have been fundamental pillars of our life. The most treasured gifts from our grandmother were always saplings, plants, or flowers. On every piece of land available, she would nurture a garden, and many of us have inherited this profound love for nature.

A Family of Visionaries in Agriculture

Two of my uncles have established extraordinary plantations: one specializing in unique foliage varieties, Ecuador Floral, and another cultivating rare tropical plants found nowhere else in the world: Magic Flowers. Many of my cousins, professional agronomists, have contributed their expertise to Ecuador's premier flower farms.

 

Fernando and Francisco Saenz at Expoflor
Fernando Sáenz, my father, and Francisco Sáenz, my uncle at Expoflor 2024

 

Over twenty years ago, my father entered the agricultural world on two fronts: representing the prestigious Davis weather station brand, which today boasts a network of over four hundred installations across Ecuador, and founding 'Ecuador y sus flores' Magazine—the country's only publication dedicated exclusively to the flourishing flower industry.

 

Caridad Saenz taking pictures of flowers
I love taking pictures of every floral moment I get!

 

Joining the Industry - A Personal Awakening

Nearly three years ago, I got myself involved in this magnificent industry, and each day deepens my passion. It has been a journey of tremendous learning, understanding how each stakeholder forms an essential link in this chain.

 

Caridad Saenz at WFFSA
During my last visit to WFFSA with Kees Gram and Tjomme Gerbranda of breeder Royal Van Zanten

 

Being involved in this magazine has allowed me, first of all, to have the satisfaction of continuing my father's legacy. The level of learning I have gained thanks to him is fantastic, and I have been able to witness motivating situations.

 

Caridad Saenz with Peter Van Delft and Arnold Wittkamp
I got the pleasure of meeting Peter Van Delft and Arnold Wittkamp at Expo Flor 2024

 

As Alfredo Pallares, founder of La Rosaleda, states:

"The multiplying effect of wellbeing that this industry generates among people and communities surrounding flower plantations is very impressive."

I have witnessed this transformation firsthand. Getting to know the dedication behind all this excellence has inspired me to dream big.

 

Colleagues in the flower industry in Ecuador
Having a great time with some of my colleagues in the industry

 

Our Global Mission - Sharing Ecuador's Floral Stories

This year, we've focused on developing strategies to reach more florists and end consumers worldwide. Our location on the equatorial line, blessed with abundant sunshine, creates ideal conditions for cultivating flowers with extraordinary characteristics, but the value of Ecuadorian flowers extends far beyond this natural advantage.

My mission is to become THE source for all the stories behind our flowers: stories that demonstrate our genuine investment in our people and communities; stories of successful and efficient staff care programs; stories sharing our commitment to developing sustainability technologies that fundamentally shape on decision-making.

 

Caridad Saenz alongside pink roses by De ruiter

 

Today, our mission is clearer than ever. 'Ecuador y sus Flores' magazine is powerfully positioned to tell the world that, beyond cultivating the finest flowers with superior characteristics, Ecuador stands as the premier flower producer because of our exceptional practices.

This industry is indeed very unique, united in purpose, seeking collective growth and development. We are currently navigating a generational transition, and I am profoundly honored to participate in this evolution.

As my father says:

"What I admire most about this industry is the resourcefulness of flower growers. Not being directly involved in cultivation or commercialization myself, I enjoy observing how each challenge and problem is faced. Over these 21 years, I have seen companies grow, witnessed the improvement in the quality of life for many families working in this industry, and observed how my friends in the flower business have faced challenges, which has been remarkable and something we have constantly highlighted in our pages. We have made very good friends and have continuously received their support."

 

Fernando Saenz with roses
My father, Fernando Sáenz with roses

 

Visit Ecuador y sus Flores' website, subscribe to our monthly newsletter, and discover firsthand the producers and leaders of the country's floriculture. Learn their stories and understand why, when it comes to flowers, Ecuadorian flowers should be your first choice in the global marketplace.

Caridad Sáenz profile picture
Caridad Sáenz

Caridad Sáenz is the Editor in Chief of the magazine 'Ecuador y sus Flores'.

A couple of years ago, she became involved with this magazine that her father founded over twenty years ago, and she was captivated by this industry.

"There is so much to talk about the flower industry in Ecuador. My personal goal is for everyone to learn more about what lies behind the best flower in the world, the Ecuadorian flower. If you want to know more about the industry in Ecuador, this is your place."

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