For those looking to generate a significant income at the farmer’s market, cultivating cut flowers is an engaging hobby with substantial earning potential. The demand for flowers is consistently high, making it a worthwhile investment opportunity.
Not only do flowers make a visually appealing addition to your market stall, but they also have a natural ability to draw people in. Their vibrant colors and beauty are enough to ‘sell themselves’!
You can dedicate an entire section of your booth to showcasing your blooms or use them as a focal point for your other products. By placing more subdued items like homemade bread or root crops nearby, you can create a visually appealing display that highlights the best of both worlds.
What Makes a Great Flower For Selling
When selecting flowers for your farmer’s market, it’s essential to consider several key factors. First, think about the lifespan of the variety – you want flowers that will hold up in a vase for at least a week. Height is also crucial, with tall varieties over 14 inches being ideal for creating visually appealing bouquets. Additionally, consider the climate in which your flowers will be grown and choose varieties that thrive in those conditions.
Don’t just focus on showy, large flowers – smaller blooms like baby’s breath can add texture and depth to arrangements. A mix of flower shapes and sizes is also important, with round, spikey, and wispy varieties all bringing unique qualities to the table. When it comes to perennials versus annuals, consider the benefits of each: while annuals produce faster, perennials can provide a competitive edge by offering blooms that others may not have.
Phlox, asters, and delphinium are excellent examples of cut flowers that can be grown as perennials. Finally, keep an eye on flowering time to ensure you’re selling flowers at the peak of their beauty. As Hillary Alger, Flowers Product Manager at Johnny’s Seeds, notes, a great farmer’s market flower should be beautiful, productive, fast-growing, low-maintenance, and easy to harvest. Consider cut-and-come-again varieties like zinnias, which allow for continuous blooms throughout the season.
11 Best Flowers To Grow
When it comes to selling at the farmer’s market, I’ve found that some flowers stand out from the rest. While it’s true you may want to mix things up and offer some surprises, there are certain blooms that consistently do well with customers. One such example is Jerusalem artichokes or sunchokes – they not only make a lovely cut flower arrangement but also have an edible tuber that can be used in various recipes.
Another key consideration is the role of fillers, which are smaller, thinner-stemmed flowers and foliage that complement larger blooms. Fillers are referred to as such because they help to ‘fill’ out bouquets, adding volume and visual interest. I don’t underestimate the importance of these filler flowers – think grasses, ferns, and smaller blooms. They may not always be the main attraction, but they’re an essential part of creating a visually appealing arrangement that customers will love.
Sunflowers
In the United States, sunflowers reign supreme as the most widely cultivated flower. Their versatility is evident in their uses – from seeds to oil, and even as cut flowers for arrangements. Just a short distance from me lies a farm that has embarked on an innovative venture: cultivating sunflowers specifically for seed pressing into oil. The sheer majesty of these towering blooms draws crowds in August, with cars lining up along the road just to capture a glimpse of this natural wonder.
Furthermore, sunflowers are surprisingly easy to grow.
One of their greatest strengths lies in the diversity of varieties available. These radiant flowers come in an array of colors – from sunny yellows and vibrant oranges to deep reds. Whether you’re looking for towering giants or compact cultivars, there’s a type of sunflower to suit your taste.
Experiment with a mix of different species to get started, such as the popular ‘Lemon Queen’, the pollen-less ‘Teddy Bear’, or any number of Procut series varieties.
Zinnias
When it comes to the farmer’s market, I have a soft spot for zinnias – they’re incredibly resilient and can thrive in even the most challenging conditions. Whether the weather is hot, rainy or infested with bugs, these flowers keep on blooming, providing a vibrant splash of color throughout the growing season. And that’s not all – zinnias come in an astonishing array of colors (the only exception being blue!
) and unique petal shapes, offering endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression.
One of the things I love most about zinnias is the incredible diversity of varieties available. The giant dahlia-bloomed varieties produce show-stopping flower heads that can grow up to six inches in diameter, while the cactus varieties boast soft, individual ‘petals’ that resemble tiny spines.
And then there are the Benary series varieties, specifically bred for their exceptional cut flower qualities.
Of course, some of my personal favorites include Oklahoma and Cactus – both are reliable performers that never fail to impress. But if you’re looking for a truly unique experience, be sure to check out state fair mixes, which offer a colorful medley of zinnia varieties all in one place.
Rudbeckias
Rudbeckias, another stalwart of the garden, share a familial connection with sunflowers and zinnias – all members of the Asteraceae family. As perennials or self-seeding annuals, they require a thoughtful approach to propagation. Permit some plants to go to seed, allowing the next generation to flourish. One notable feature of rudbeckia petals is their distinctive downward angle, which serves as an asset in bouquets, lending a fuller appearance.
Beyond these domesticated varieties, such as Indian summer and Prairie Sun, rudbeckias can also be found thriving wild, manifesting as the charming black-eyed Susan.
Cosmos
Cosmos, a beloved cut flower, requires timely harvesting to ensure optimal vase life. To encourage blooming in the arrangement, snip the blossoms when the center of the flower is still tightly closed. This simple technique will coax the unopened buds into opening within the vase. Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way during my first season growing cosmos.
My mistake was waiting too long to harvest the flowers, resulting in wilted blooms that were subsequently removed from bouquets at the farmer’s market. This experience taught me a valuable lesson about the importance of prompt harvesting in preserving the beauty and longevity of these lovely flowers. Cosmos varieties offer diverse characteristics to suit different tastes and styles.
The double click series boasts double blooms and delicate fern-like foliage, while Seashell features charmingly fluted petals that add visual interest to any arrangement.
Celosia
Celosia’s unique textures and diverse array of shapes make it a standout addition to any bouquet. Whether you’re drawn to its statuesque, feathery forms or the whimsical, brain-like appearance of some varieties, this flower is sure to bring visual interest to your arrangements. And, as an added bonus, celosia thrives in the summer heat, making it a low-maintenance yet high-reward addition to any garden.
The world of celosia is surprisingly diverse, with three main types to explore: Cristata is characterized by its crested, cockscomb-like appearance, while plumose varieties boast feathery tops. Meanwhile, spicata is often referred to as wheat celosia due to its distinctive shape. If you’re looking for specific varieties to try, be sure to check out recommended options like flamingo feather, chief, papas plume, and temple belles.
Amaranth
Amaranth is often cultivated for its valuable seeds, which are a hit with both birds and humans. Its striking appearance also makes it an excellent choice for adding a pop of color to bouquets. When used as cut flowers, amaranth’s tall and statuesque stems provide a dramatic focal point, boasting a respectable vase life in the process.
When it comes to selecting varieties for cutting purposes, Red Spike and Hot Biscuits are top picks for their striking appearance and ability to add a splash of color. For a more relaxed look, Love Lies produces a trailing flower that can be showcased beautifully in a large round vase.
Snapdragons
This beloved flower holds a special place in my heart, as it was always my son’s favorite. He took great pride in nurturing them in his own garden. When it comes to growing snapdragons, it’s essential to start them indoors and carefully monitor their root development, as they can become root-bound if left too long in the same pot. Transplanting them into a larger container with ample room for growth is crucial.
Once planted outside, snapdragons require support to prevent them from toppling over in the wind. A simple yet effective solution is to lay horizontal netting about five inches off the ground to keep them upright. With proper care and attention, these vibrant flowers will thrive under your guidance. Some exceptional varieties include the rocket and Potomac series.
Baby’s Breath
Baby’s breath, a versatile plant featuring petite blooms in various hues, thrives when direct-seeded. Its short blooming period emphasizes the importance of succession seeding to ensure a continuous display of its charming flowers. Additionally, providing support is crucial, as some varieties can grow up to four feet tall, showcasing their full beauty. One popular variety for cut flower arrangements is Bristol fairy, an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to your bouquets.
Field Weeds
While I don’t typically refer to them as ‘flowers’, I’ve had the pleasure of crafting numerous bouquets using what might be considered weeds. The two fields on my property, primarily used for livestock grazing and occasional mowing, have become a treasure trove of colorful blooms. In fact, my wild weed arrangements have fetched the same price as cultivated flowers, despite requiring significantly fewer inputs.
Among the diverse array of species that can be found in these fields are Joe Pye weed, yarrow, daisies, goldenrod (which should not be confused with ragweed), butterfly bush, and wild wheat – all of which make stunning additions to a bouquet for the farmer’s market.
Herbs
When cultivating a herb garden, it’s easy to overlook the possibility of using your herbs as a source for stunning cut flowers. Typically, when growing many herbs, we prune the flower heads to encourage leaf growth. However, allowing your herbs to bloom can add a new dimension to your arrangements – not only do they create beautiful bouquets, but they also fill the air with a delightful aroma.
Your customers will be impressed when you reveal that they can enjoy the leaves after the flowers have finished blooming.
In terms of varieties, basil is an excellent choice for its spiky blooms that make great filler flowers. This popular herb thrives in hot climates and retains its freshness even in a vase. Some notable basil varieties include ‘Oriental Breeze’, ‘Cinnamon’, and ‘Mrs. Burns’.
Dill also boasts lovely fronds that add a light, airy texture to bouquets.
Additionally, don’t forget about floral herbs like chamomile and lavender, which can bring a touch of elegance to any arrangement.
Peonies
Peonies are in high demand due to their exceptional quality, allowing sellers to command a premium price. Moreover, these beautiful flowers can be incredibly productive in the garden, as one plant can produce numerous offsets that can be divided over time. When harvesting peonies, it’s best to cut the buds when they’re still small and compact, allowing them to continue growing and expanding after being removed from the plant. This ensures a longer-lasting arrangement or bouquet.
Certain varieties of peonies, such as Angels’ Cheeks, Bridal Icing, Candy Stripe, Coral Charm, Lemon Chiffon, and Minuet, are particularly well-suited for cutting due to their robust blossoms and lengthy stems.
Planting Your Flowers
When cultivating a diverse range of flowers, starting many from seed in a controlled environment like a grow room or greenhouse can significantly extend the selling season. By giving your blooms an early head start, you can enjoy a prolonged period of production. In addition to providing optimal conditions for growth, succession planting is also crucial when growing flowers.
This involves planting popular varieties every two weeks, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh blooms throughout the season. Certain flowers, such as baby’s breath, which boast shorter bloom times, particularly benefit from this approach. By implementing a strategic succession plan, you can enjoy a consistent flow of these sought-after blooms.
Putting Together the Bouquets
While anyone can create beautiful bouquets, it’s essential to follow some key steps when arranging flowers for public display. To start, remove any lower leaves from the stems to prevent dirtiness and contamination. A tall stem or two serves as a perfect focal point, around which you can add smaller stems and flowers to create visual interest. Filler flowers help fill in any gaps or thin areas, while a pre-determined theme guides your color palette choices.
Once you’ve curated your selection, snip the stems to ensure they’re even and secure them together using rubber bands, string, or flower sleeves. Finally, place the arrangement in a bucket of fresh water and change it regularly to keep the flowers healthy and thriving.
Resources
Lynn Byczynski, the visionary behind the acclaimed ‘Flower Farmer’, has earned the distinction of being known as the Queen of Cut Flowers. My introduction to her work dates back to 1999, when I had the privilege of listening to her speak at the Ohio Ecological Food and Farming Conference. Yes, that’s a vintage reference!
What struck me then was her impressive testimony about generating $25,000 per acre in revenue from cut flowers sold directly at the farmer’s market – an entrepreneurial feat that left a lasting impression on me. In addition to being the author of ‘Flower Farmer’, Lynn also assumes the role of editor for the esteemed Growing for Market newsletter.
Take Away
Floral arrangements can brighten up the farm, but they also present an opportunity to generate significant revenue at the farmer’s market. With high demand, it’s essential to develop innovative strategies to capitalize on this lucrative venture.
One approach I’ve found effective is to share a bouquet with children, who are instantly captivated and subsequently encourage their parents to purchase more.
Additionally, offering to hold bouquets for customers until they’re ready to leave the market eliminates the need for them to carry heavy arrangements, fostering a sense of convenience.
In my experience, flowers have a profound effect on attracting visitors to your booth, allowing you to engage with customers in meaningful ways and promote other products. This dual benefit not only contributes to revenue but also enables you to build lasting relationships with your customers.
If cultivating flowers for their aesthetic appeal is something you enjoy, it’s worth considering them as a viable cash crop. With a thriving demand for cut flowers, this endeavor can bring joy to both the grower and the consumer.
