Horticulture in the Time of COVID-19

Dear Colleagues,

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to a blockage in the supply of fresh food, highlighting the vulnerability of the global agri-food system. Lockdown measures have slowed down fresh produce supply in long-distance distribution chains and might have left communities in small towns with limited availability of food due to the lack of big grocery stores. The pandemic may have triggered disruptions in the food supply chain and, particularly, in fresh produce, both at commercial and household levels.

In addition, mobility restrictions have occurred in many countries, and social distancing has left people distressed and vulnerable, but also with a larger availability of spare time. This situation has led to a revitalization of home gardening. This global health problem has favored leisure activities related to flowers and ornamental plants, of which the therapeutic and calming effects are being increasingly recognized. Even self-care has occurred due to a higher demand for relief, highlighting the lack of access to botanicals.

How was horticulture affected by SARS-CoV-2? The aim of this Topical Collection is to gather knowledge regarding reactions to the pandemic that occurred worldwide in the horticultural sector and, also, on the confinement of people. This Topical Collection covers reviews and specific studies on how horticulture was influenced by the pandemic, considering changes in the food production and supply chain, in citizen’s behavior and demand for fresh food being locally vs. remotely produced and commercial vs. self-produced. In addition, reviews and case studies related to floriculture are pertinent, taking into account that the pandemic also caused a worldwide crisis in this sector and that the practice of activities such as gardening became important for health and wellbeing. New reactions and approaches to botanicals are also of interest. Prospects for  resilience of the horticultural sector, enduring changes caused by SARS-CoV-2, are also welcome. 

Dr. Andrea Ertani
Dr. Roberta Bulgari
Collection Editors

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