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Planning models for floriculture operations

Abstract:

This paper proposes planning models that will assist a flower grower with the land and flower variety allocation decisions in such a way that the revenues (or profits) are maximised over a given planning period. In particular, this paper presents models where the mix of flowers is modified throughout the planning horizon to accommodate market fluctuation such as changes in demand and price for the different varieties being planted and harvested. The problem considers capacity and workforce constraints and demand, yield, and price variability across time. The models developed are applied to a case study of flower growing in Ecuador. The results of these models are presented, including one based on a heuristic strategy that renders in most cases rapid and close to optimal solutions. Copyright © 2012 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.