#319: Lennie Larkin's September Q&A, Ask A Flower Farmer
Hello, I'm Lenny Larkin! I run B Side Farm in Oregon and have written a book called Flower Farming for Profit. My focus is on helping flower farmers grow their businesses effectively. I also offer online courses, including a short course called Profitable Flower Farming, which helps people understand the business side of flower farming. Today I'd like to answer your questions on topics ranging from business tactics to planting schedules. Let's begin!
What Are Your Thoughts on Pricing Flowers?
Pricing can be tricky! Beginners often hesitate to charge more for fear of losing customers or worry about undercutting fellow farmers by pricing too low. A good starting point is researching local prices by visiting other farms or checking wholesaler comparisons for market insights.
When selling directly, remember that customers are aware of flower market prices. By staying updated on costs, you can competitively price your products and maintain profitability.
How Many Flower Varieties Should New Farmers Grow?
As a beginner in flower gardening, start small and simple. Focus on ten to twenty varieties instead of trying to grow everything at once. This way, you can nurture them without feeling overwhelmed.
Avoid the common mistake of growing too many types of flowers at once, which can lead to confusion. Instead, experiment with a few different flowers to see which ones thrive and are popular, allowing you to specialize effectively.
Where Can I Learn to Design Bouquets?
Learning bouquet design is best through hands-on practice, so don't hesitate to experiment! YouTube has great resources with designers like Julio from The Flower Hat and Amy Balsters, who offer tutorials to help you master bouquet design.
What About Investing in Perennials and Shrubs?
If you're tired of starting seeds and want a change in your routine, consider investing in perennials and shrubs. They add lasting beauty to your farm or garden. Start small, as they can be costly upfront.
I once invested $25k in peonies, but most farmers begin with just a hundred plants. You might also grow hydrangeas and spireas, which are both beautiful and popular.
How Do I Work on Pricing with Florists?
Pricing flowers can be challenging. It's important to discuss requirements and budget constraints with florists. If flower costs exceed their budget, ask about alternative types they might buy. This feedback can help adjust your inventory.
Final Thoughts
I love being part of this flower-farming community! We’re all in this together, and I’m here to help you navigate the challenges of running a flower farm. Please follow me on social media at the links below!
Mentions
Lennie’s Instagram: flowerfarming.forprofit, B-Side Farm
Lennie's online course: Profitable Flower Farming
Dave's online course: Bulbs, Perennials, Woodies, and More
Spring Meadows: flowering shrub wholesale liners & pots
The Gardener’s Workshop on Instagram
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
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The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
