What does the term "floriculture" refer to?

The term "floriculture" specifically refers to the cultivation of flowers and ornamental plants. This field involves various practices related to growing and selling flowering and foliage plants, which can be used in residential and commercial landscaping as well as for cut flowers, potted plants, and garden displays. The focus on flowers and ornamental plants distinguishes floriculture from other agricultural practices such as horticulture, which includes a broader category of plants, and agriculture of fruits and vegetables.

Understanding the primary focus of floriculture helps to appreciate how it contributes to the floral industry, landscaping, and various aspects of environmental design, but it is not concerned with the method of landscape design itself or the scientific aspects of plant breeding.