Hong Kong flower sellers at Lunar New Year fairs face tough times as unusually warm weather brings early blooms. On Sunday, the Observatory recorded 26.9°C, tying a record for this lunar day. "Winter has become like summer, which is not a good phenomenon for flowers or farmers," said Li Wing-keung, director of Keung Kee Garden. Farmers must work hard to control premature flowering. Buyers noticed cheaper prices, like homemaker Jessica Lam who said narcissus plants bloomed early and cost less than last year. Economy troubles added to woes. Li said residents were cautious spending, with few orders over HK$2,000 (US$2556). Sales dropped a lot. Sky So, owner at Tai Po fair, cut prices by 10-20%, selling orchids at just HK$148. Some vendors blame border competition as mainland Chinese buyers shop via platforms like Taobao and Pinduoduo, promising direct delivery and flooding Hong Kong's market. However, Elizabeth Tse Wong Siu-yin, chairwoman of the Hong Kong Flower Retailers Association, said it is hard to carry fragile flowers across borders, questioning the savings. The 14 Lunar New Year fairs with around 1,500 stalls run until 7am on New Year's Day, packed with visitors. The crowds can scare buyers away, as visitor Issacson Ng said he bought nothing due to too many people. Tse advised visiting during daytime to avoid crowds and shop better.