Spring, summer and fall are such a whirlwind for flower and vegetable farmers. Winter is the time to review notes and look towards next year. I am so grateful for this few month break to refuel and think. 2018 started out strong as many seasons do. By the time July hits I am so […]
Journal
How to Grow Dahlias
My first few years growing dahlias were ultimately unsuccessful. I grew healthy plants, but they would never bloom. It wasn’t until I met a 2nd generation flower farmer, John La Salle, that my dahlias started flourishing. Much of the dahlia-related knowledge he shared with me is outlined below. When living in New England, especially in […]
Flower Farmers Journal: January’s Deep Freeze
Jaunuary is always the coldest month of the year here in Vermont, making it also the most restful month of the year. This year many states are battling record colds they are not used to dealing with. I am noticing there have been many questions about survival of tender perennial plants on flower farming […]
Farmer Florist Journal: GROWING YOUR WEDDING BUSINESS
Recently a farmer florist asked me, “How do you grow your wedding business?” I thought this would make an informative blog post. I have been working in this industry for 15 years now. When I started I charged very low prices. I didn’t know any better, and it got my name out there. As time has […]
Storing Dahlias
Recently I received a request to write about my dahlia storage. So here we go. The pictures are not all beautiful, but provide you the information you need. Dig the dahlia tuber and shake off dirt but leave whatever sticks. Usually the dirt between the tubers sticks that’s fine, just let it be. I let […]