In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the often-overlooked responsibilities of flower farmers, particularly in the context of agritourism. She emphasizes the role flower farmers play in shaping public perception of agriculture and the importance of educating visitors about the realities of farming. The conversation explores the spectrum of farming, the balance between small and large farms, and the civic role that flower farmers take on when they open their farms to the public. Liz encourages farmers to embrace their role as educators and to engage in meaningful conversations with their customers about the complexities of agriculture.

Takeaways

• Flower farmers shape public perception of agriculture.
• Agritourism carries a hidden responsibility.
• It's important to educate visitors about farming realities.
• The spectrum of farming includes both small and large operations.
• Local farming matters, but so does big agriculture.
• Flower farming is not just about selling flowers.
• Farmers must engage in conversations about food sourcing.
• Education builds trust between farmers and consumers.
• Agritourism can be a joyful experience.
• Farmers are educators, whether they want to be or not.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum, host Liz discusses strategies for managing extra flowers in a flower farming business. She emphasizes the importance of long-term planning and pre-selling to avoid excess inventory. The episode provides creative solutions for moving flowers, such as partnering with local businesses, utilizing QR codes for audience building, and running giveaways. Liz also warns against discounting flowers, as it can attract bargain hunters and undermine the business's value. The conversation concludes with a reminder to focus on building a brand and audience while managing flower sales effectively.

Takeaways

• Plan your crops intentionally to align with sales periods.
• Pre-sell flowers to reduce the need for last-minute sales.
• Use creative marketing strategies to move extra flowers.
• Partner with local businesses to increase visibility.
• Utilize QR codes to capture email leads.
• Avoid discounting flowers to maintain brand value.
• Engage with nursing homes for community outreach.
• Run giveaways to build your email list.
• Collaborate with photographers for styled shoots.
• Focus on long-term strategies for sustainable growth.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Foundations of PPP: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Workshops: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/workshops

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses her recent intermission from selling and growing flowers, the evolution of her online course into a community membership, and the importance of taking breaks to refocus on business foundations. She shares insights on automating email marketing, the upcoming pivot of the podcast to include agritourism and specialty crop farming, and the need for investment in growth to better serve the community.

Takeaways

• Taking breaks can lead to better business outcomes.
• Evolving from a course to a community enhances engagement.
• Automating processes frees up time for strategic growth.
• Building a strong foundation is crucial for sustainability.
• Seasonal sales strategies can improve revenue.
• Community connections are vital for business success.
• Investing in personal growth benefits the entire business.
• The podcast will expand its focus to include agritourism.
• Flexibility in business operations can lead to better results.
• Don't be afraid to pause and refuel your energy.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergan discusses the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities, particularly in Stearns County, Minnesota and the Stearns County Comprehensive Plan for 2040 that has a focus on agriculture. She explores the balance between growth and preservation, the importance of supporting small farmers, and the role of agritourism and value-added agriculture in sustaining rural economies. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional growth that benefits both the agricultural sector and the community as a whole.

Takeaways

• What kind of growth do we want in our rural communities?
• Stearns County is experiencing rapid growth and urban sprawl.
• Change is inevitable, and we must remain curious about it.
• The Stearns County 2040 Comprehensive Plan addresses agricultural sustainability.
• Support for small farmers is crucial for rural economies.
• Value-added agriculture can provide multiple income streams.
• Agritourism helps reconnect consumers with agriculture.
• The interconnected pillars of rural development include agriculture, living, business, connectivity, and nature.
• Intentional growth can support small businesses and generational farming.
• Community involvement is essential in shaping the future of rural areas.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergen discusses the numerous benefits of locally grown flowers, emphasizing the importance of having a well-prepared elevator pitch to advocate for local blooms. She highlights the unique qualities of local flowers, including their freshness, sustainability, and support for the local economy. Liz also introduces a new resource, FarmersToFlorist.com, aimed at fostering collaboration between flower farmers and florists.

Takeaways

• Locally grown flowers offer unmatched quality and freshness.
• Having an elevator pitch is crucial for advocating local flowers.
• Local flowers support the local economy and community.
• Sustainability in flower farming is a gradual process.
• Unique varieties of flowers are often only available locally.
• Florists value the quality and convenience of local flowers.
• Price should not be the main focus when selling local flowers.
• Educating consumers about local flowers is essential.
• FarmersToFlorist.com aims to connect farmers and florists.
• Networking opportunities can elevate the local flower industry.

Downloadable PDF talked about in the episode

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Free Download: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/cut-flower-care-tips

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses how to care for locally grown flowers from the perspective of the customer. She emphasizes the unique qualities of these flowers, the importance of educating customers on their care, and sustainable practices in flower farming. The episode provides practical tips for prolonging the life of bouquets and highlights the significance of supporting local agriculture.

Takeaways

• Locally grown flowers have fewer chemicals and are safer for the environment.
• Educating customers on flower care enhances their experience and satisfaction.
• Changing the water daily is crucial for flower longevity.
• Flowers should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat.
• Avoid storing flowers near fresh fruit to prevent wilting.
• Trimming stems at an angle helps flowers absorb water better.
• Removing leaves below the waterline prevents bacterial growth.
• Locally grown flowers celebrate nature and support sustainable agriculture.
• Providing customers with care tips can improve their results and happiness.
• Utilizing email marketing can help build a customer base.

Helpful Links:

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the 'Miracle on 34th Street' philosophy, emphasizing the importance of customer service and community support in the flower farming business. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey in the floral industry, the challenges of meeting customer needs, and the significance of maintaining integrity and generosity in business interactions. Liz also opens up about her recent personal struggles, including a miscarriage, and announces her upcoming book, 'Flowers Bloom Anyway,' which reflects on her experiences with grief and resilience.

Takeaways

• The Miracle on 34th Street motto emphasizes customer service.
• Building loyalty comes from making customers feel valued.
• Directing customers to others when you can't help builds trust.
• An abundance mindset is crucial in business.
• Playing offense rather than defense leads to success.
• Integrity and generosity are key to brand reputation.
• Personal experiences shape business philosophies.
• Grief can lead to personal growth and new insights.
• Creating positive experiences is essential for community strength.
• The journey of entrepreneurship includes both challenges and triumphs.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz and guest Matt Diamante discuss essential marketing strategies for small businesses, focusing on social media and SMS marketing. They explore the importance of video content, the dynamics of going viral, and effective ways to build an SMS list. The conversation emphasizes the need for small business owners to adapt to changing marketing landscapes and engage their audiences meaningfully.

Takeaways

• Social media should focus on audience connection and trust.
• Video content is prioritized by platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
• Going viral can help local businesses gain credibility.
• SMS marketing is more effective than email for immediate engagement.
• Avoid overwhelming customers with too many texts.
• Physical marketing materials can create a lasting impression.
• Building an SMS list requires consent and engagement.
• Utilize events to gather customer contact information.
• Personalized messages can enhance customer relationships.
• Marketing principles are applicable across different business types.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the critical choice between chasing time or money in the context of flower farming. She shares her personal journey through the ups and downs of running a flower farm, emphasizing the importance of investing in systems and understanding the seasons of business. Liz highlights the challenges of growth, the necessity of organization, and the balance between working hard and maintaining sustainability. The conversation serves as a guide for farmers and entrepreneurs to navigate their own paths in business.

Takeaways

• You can chase time or you can chase money, but not both.
• Building a foundation is crucial for achieving goals.
• Investing in systems can lead to long-term sustainability.
• Chasing time often requires hiring more people and creating structure.
• Chasing money involves saying yes to more opportunities and working longer hours.
• Understanding your business's financials is essential for growth.
• It's important to pivot and adapt to different seasons in business.
• Don't believe everything you see online; many struggle behind the scenes.
• Creating clear boundaries can help manage customer expectations.
• Learning the laws and tax codes is vital for business success.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses her experiences and strategies for growing dahlias at her farm in Minnesota. She shares insights on simplifying planting techniques, improving soil conditions, and innovative methods for extending the blooming season. Liz emphasizes the importance of efficient farming practices and the benefits of community support among flower farmers.

Takeaways

• Dahlias are resilient and can thrive with proper care.
• Simplifying planting techniques can reduce physical strain.
• Using trenches for planting can improve efficiency.
• Soil health is crucial for successful dahlia growth.
• Utilizing compost and cover crops can enhance soil quality.
• Staking methods can support dahlia plants during storms.
• High tunnels can extend the blooming season for dahlias.
• Proper storage techniques are essential for tuber preservation.
• Community support among flower farmers can lead to industry growth.
• Sustainable practices are key to long-term success in flower farming.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852