You can’t get a fruit basket this week at Mums the Word, a flower shop on Pacific Avenue.

Unusually icy weather in California’s citrus groves has driven orange prices through the top of the crate. The effects of last month’s freeze have spread across the country like a cold front to New Jersey’s grocers and florists.

“Navel oranges were selling for $1.50 apiece at the supermarket. What can I mark them up in a basket?” florist Marcella Lakis asked.

As an alternative, she is urging her customers to consider gourmet treats instead.

Lakis said field-grown flowers such as snap dragons are harder to find, too, thanks to the same unusual cold snap that stunted the growth of many Valentine’s Day favorites.

source : www.pressofatlanticcity.com