018: Innovating and Adapting a Cut Flower Market

In this episode, we discuss the power of foliage in floral arrangements. Join me as I share my everything from discovering the exceptional vase life of thornless raspberries to exploring a variety of annual and perennial foliages like Nicandra, basil, Bupleurum, and eucalyptus. I offer innovative approaches to managing and harvesting woody foliage and perennials, including practical tips on incorporating herbs and local greenery into your creations.  Whether you're a budding gardener or a seasoned floral enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you craft stunning, foliage-rich bouquets with confidence and creativity! In this episode, you will hear: Importance of foliage in cut flower farming, including categories like annuals, perennials, shrubs, and sticks. Practical management techniques for woody foliage like raspberries and viburnums. Integration of perennial foliages like sage, rosemary, mint, Baptisia, peonies, hostas, irises, and meadowsweet into floral arrangements. Benefits of using local and naturally sourced foliage to enhance floral designs. Tips for using foliage in different floral settings, including farm stands, events, and DIY arrangements. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join me in this exciting episode as I share the dynamic world of cut flower growing, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities. I'll discuss how I navigate changing weather, market demands, and innovative ideas to keep my flower business thriving. Through personal stories from recent months, I highlight the importance of direct customer interaction, scaling flower production, and efficient market distribution.  In this episode, we also explore the fascinating world of "you pick" farming and flower harvesting. I share the journey of implementing a "you pick" peony patch, the logistics, customer experiences, and the balancing act of harvesting for cold storage while maintaining an appealing field for visitors. Additionally, I'll discuss the complexities of managing a "you pick" flower and berry farm, the importance of educating customers on proper picking techniques, and the challenges of scaling down operations while remaining profitable.  Reflecting on niche marketing strategies and the importance of dedicated staff, this episode is packed with insights to help you manage and grow a successful cut flower business. In this episode, you will hear: Adaptation strategies for thriving in the cut flower industry amid unpredictable weather and market changes. Insights on scaling flower production and developing efficient market distribution processes. Launching and managing a "you pick" peony patch, including customer engagement and logistical challenges. Balancing flower harvesting for cold storage versus maintaining field appeal for visitors. Educational aspects of "you pick" farming, such as teaching proper flower picking techniques. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join me as we explore the exciting world of selling cut flowers and the many market opportunities available for flower farmers. We'll discuss various sales channels, from farmers' markets to direct customer sales, and the importance of building a supportive community. I'll share my personal experiences and practical advice on harvesting and problem-solving, helping you to discover your passion for flowers, whether you’re considering selling them or simply growing them as a hobby. Plus, find out more about my new platform on Skool, where you can access comprehensive resources and support for your flower-growing journey.  Join us at https://www.skool.com/beehaven-flower-farm/about   In this episode, we also highlight strategies for simplifying and expanding your flower business. Learn the benefits of focusing on one primary service to avoid spreading yourself too thin, and consider subscription models as a source of recurring revenue. We'll talk about the advantages of farm stands, farmers' markets, and pop-ups for selling seasonal flowers, as well as the broader reach offered by wholesale selling. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to growing, selling, and arranging cut flowers, and get inspired to brainstorm new market opportunities this spring.  In this episode, you will hear: The best sales channels for locally-grown flower-selling Strategies for avoiding overextension and focusing on primary services Insights on hosting pop-up events and wholesale selling Benefits of subscription models for recurring revenue Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

In this episode, I share how I grew from imagining sunflower fields for grocery stores to growing a range of flowers and creating a community through my farm stand. I'll give you practical advice on starting and running a successful farm stand, which includes having a walk-in refrigerator and 24/7 operation.  I’ll also talk about the reality of being a parent in the digital age, getting kids involved in gardening, and how farm stands can teach young entrepreneurs. No matter if you're an experienced gardener or want to start flower farming, this episode will give you helpful information and show my dedication to building relationships and minimizing waste through local sales and community involvement. In this episode, you will hear: Morning routines and the weather's impact on farming decisions Sales strategies and managing theft at a farm stand Involving children in farming to teach industriousness and reduce screen time Advantages of refrigerated farm stands in reducing waste and keeping produce fresh Growing popularity of farm stands and creating a community hub for local goods Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

This episode is packed with invaluable advice on managing the financial pressures of spring and preparing for a profitable summer. From my own journey of overcoming a $10,000 debt in my first year to practical strategies for navigating the intense periods of the growing season, you'll discover how to keep your flower farming dream alive and flourishing. Whether you're a novice gardener, a multitasking mompreneur, or someone in search of a fulfilling hobby, these insights will empower you to plan effectively and understand the business cycle. Learn how to optimize your tulip selections, leverage staffing support to keep your farm on track, and employ tools like Rime covers for a bountiful harvest. We also dive into the challenges of marketing Lily of the Valley, offering creative strategies to boost sales and the idea of building a collaborative community for shared marketing efforts.  Tune in for stories and actionable tips that will help you navigate the busiest times of your growing season with confidence and success. In this episode, you will hear: Managing financial pressures in spring as a flower farmer. Staffing support during peak seasons to handle tasks like planting and weed control. Marketing challenges for Lily of the Valley, exploring effective strategies and the idea of a collaborative marketing community for flower farmers. Utilizing Rime covers and choosing early-blooming tulips to secure a bountiful harvest and boost early-season income. The need for succession planting and getting assistance to prevent tasks from overlapping and causing stress during the busy season. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

There's something magical about the transformation of a seed into the bloom of a peony or the elegant curve of a lily stem. I've spent 16 years with my hands in the soil, coaxing these miracles into life, and in today's episode, I'm opening the garden gate to share this wonder with you. We'll traverse the seasons from the eager sprigs of pussy willow in spring to the fiery chrysanthemums of autumn, and explore how cultivating a succession of focal flowers can not only beautify your space but also create a thriving business from your love of nature. I recount the delight of teaching children, including my own daughter, about the circle of life with dried flower workshops, sparking creativity and a sense of entrepreneurship. We'll also discuss the unsung heroes of the garden, like the praying mantis, and the importance of planning for profit with long-lasting, beautiful plants. So, whether you're a seasoned grower or simply have an appreciation for the art of floristry, join me for a conversation that promises to plant seeds of inspiration for both the garden and the soul. In this episode, you will hear: - Cultivation and selection of focal flowers for a profitable cut flower garden. The role of unique blooms and succession planting in maintaining a fresh market presence. Tips on managing beneficial insects like praying mantises and the importance of garden planning for a successful floral portfolio. Strategies for managing large quantities of flowers, including the use of a cooler to keep them market-ready. The appeal of peonies and lilies for their profitability and long vase life. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the Secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

When life handed me raspberries, I didn't just make jam — I started a U-pick raspberry farm alongside my thriving flower garden. It's a tale that began with the hardy resilience of raspberry foliage, something I initially cultivated for its lasting beauty in bouquets. As my garden grew, so did the requests from my community, leading me down a path to an enterprise that's as rich in berries as it is in stories. In our latest episode, I peel back the leaves to reveal the organic growth of my business, how it's been shaped by the needs and desires of those it serves and the sweet balance I've found between my floral passion and the bountiful raspberry harvest. For anyone with a green thumb or dreams of their own agricultural ventures, this episode is ripe with insights to help you harvest success. In this episode, you will hear: The transition from growing raspberry foliage for bouquets to full raspberry production due to community demand. Balancing a dual-purpose garden and managing both the aesthetic and edible aspects. Tips for effective raspberry farming, including plant management and harvesting techniques. Implementing a pick-your-own system for the community and managing customer expectations. Creative solutions for farm labor and maintenance, such as engaging local youth and regular pickers. The importance of local food production and creating a family-friendly farm experience. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join me as I walk you through the ins and outs of prepping your hoophouse for the new planting season. Sharing from my 16 years of hands-on experience, you'll get a sense of the various tools and techniques that can make your gardening both effective and manageable. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a newcomer to the soil, this episode is packed with practical advice to suit gardens of every size. The journey of flower farming is full of serendipitous learning, and I'm here to share structured lessons that pave the way for your growth. Whether you have access to advanced setups or are making do with simpler methods, you'll find tips and stories that resonate with your own floral adventures. Grab your gardening gloves or a cup of coffee, and let's cultivate your confidence and success together. In this episode, you will hear: Preparing soil in a hoop house for planting. Essential gardening tools that are cost-effective. Balancing budget and labor efficiency when considering more expensive gardening equipment. Techniques for managing garden beds. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.  

Listen in as I discuss the unexpected twists of joining larger markets, the harsh reality of being ousted, and the lessons learned along the way. We'll tackle the age-old saying, 'a rising tide lifts all boats,' and I'll share why this might not always ring true. This conversation is a candid look at the business dynamics that often go unseen behind the beauty of our blooms. Discover the intricacies of local market economies and how healthy competition can drive innovation and maintain high standards. Reflecting on the concept of a flower co-op, I discuss how such collaborations can attract niche customers, like florists and DIY brides, who are essential to our community. Through these stories, gain insights into how promoting American and local flowers can coexist with a shrewd business approach. Whether you're out in the garden or cozy at home, let's grow together and celebrate every effort that leads to the flourishing of our gardens. Happy growing! In this episode, you will hear: Challenges of competing in city markets and misconceptions about the "rising tide lifts all boats" idiom. The unexpected confrontation leading to mutual growth and the concept of a flower co-op to attract niche customers. Exclusion from a market due to new regulations and advocating for a fair playing field for all vendors. Personal reflections on competition, maintaining standards, and embracing healthy rivalry to foster innovation. Importance of supporting local economies and young growers in the urban agriculture landscape. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

My journey in transforming my unyielding clay backyard into a flourishing oasis taught me that with a little love and a lot of compost, any soil can become a haven for your plants. This episode is brimming with wisdom on harnessing the natural power of the ground soil you're standing on. We'll discuss why a vibrant garden doesn't require fancy raised beds when you have nature's own rich canvas to paint on. I'll guide you through enhancing your garden's soil with compost, warding off weeds with solarization, and feeding your foliage with nutrient-packed concoctions. We'll also delve into the practical steps of laying out your garden for maximum yield. You'll learn how to prepare your plot, whether you're starting fresh or wrestling with tenacious perennial grasses. I'll share some unexpected gardening allies, like our porcine friends who love to till, and how to use mulch to manage your pathways for a season-long tidy garden. From securing mulch against the winds of change to devising efficient irrigation, this episode is your gardening masterclass. So, roll up your sleeves, and let's get our hands deep into the art of cultivating beauty from the ground up. In this episode, you will hear: Benefits of using natural ground soil versus raised beds for plant growth. Amending soil with organic matter like compost and using techniques such as solarization to prepare for planting. Pros and cons of different garden layouts, including traditional rows and intensive plantings. Importance of considering irrigation and mulch management in garden setup. Practical advice on how to start a garden with the soil you have and improve its fertility over time. Innovative solutions for tackling weeds and using natural resources like pigs for tilling. Resources from this Episode Freebie: Learn the secret to Cut and Come Again Flowers - https://www.learncutflowergrowing.com/cut-and-come-again-flowers Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.