The idea of farming for cut flowers is becoming more popular. Like everything, farming flowers is a lot of work! Here are a few things to think about.

Sun

Flowers need FULL SUN!!! Sun = Flowers = Money! If you do not have a field that is in the full sun all day long then you may want to reconsider going into the cut flower business.

Space

Most smaller flower farms utilize 1/4-1/2 acre for production. The site should be relatively flat, well drained and easily accessible. You will need a shed for tools and supplies as well.

Time

Growing any garden takes time and cut flower plots are no less time consuming than vegetables. Soil preparation, planting, weed control, fertilizing, watering, harvesting, marketing, selling and shipping all take time. Operating a you-pick cut flower farm can alleviate some of the harvesting work but visitors must be managed and there are liabilities to consider.

Marketing

If you are going into the flower business (or any business really) you should be good at marketing or have a partner who is willing to market the business. Websites and social media are important to keep updated. If you sell at farmers markets you should be happy to interact with the general public. Visit the websites and social media pages of successful cut flower producers for inspiration.