Rooted Agritourism

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz speaks with Marilyn about the significance of Google Business Profiles for local businesses. They discuss how to set up and optimize these profiles to enhance visibility, engage with customers, and gather reviews. Marilyn emphasizes the importance of regular updates and content creation to maintain an active presence on Google, which can lead to increased customer traffic and business growth. The conversation also touches on strategies for effectively asking for reviews and the overall impact of a well-managed Google Business Profile on local business success.

Takeaways

• Google Business Profiles are essential for local visibility.
• Regular updates to your profile can enhance search relevance.
• Engaging with customers through posts and Q&A is crucial.
• Photos and videos improve your profile's attractiveness.
• Claim and verify your business profile to start.
• Use keywords in your business name and description.
• Encourage customers to leave reviews with QR codes.
• Responding to reviews is important for reputation management.
• Content on your profile can drive traffic to your website.
• Investing time in your Google Business Profile pays off.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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

First 20 farmers sign up here to waive the activation fee: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/offers/MaYLNyjv/checkout?

Learn more about Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/f2f-farmer

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz introduces FarmersToFlorists.com, a platform designed to connect flower farmers with florists. Liz discusses the challenges faced by florists in sourcing local flowers and how her platform aims to streamline the process. The conversation covers the features of the website, pricing options, and the importance of building relationships between farmers and florists. Liz emphasizes the need for a sustainable business model and the potential for growth in the floral industry.

Takeaways

• Farmers to Florists was created to help flower farmers and florists connect more efficiently.
• Many florists struggle to buy local flowers due to logistical challenges.
• The platform allows farmers to manage their wholesale orders and communicate directly with florists.
• Identifying the right type of florist is crucial for flower farmers.
• The website offers a password-protected page for florists to see available flowers.
• Farmers can keep 100% of their earnings without commission fees.
• The platform is designed to save time and maintain boundaries for flower farmers.
• Customization options are available for farmers to tailor their pages.
• The goal is to have a vetted network of flower farmers for florists to rely on.
• Future marketing strategies include reaching out to florists and promoting the platform at conventions.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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 pros and cons of growing zinnias, a popular flower among flower farmers. She highlights their ease of growth, high yield, and vibrant colors, making them ideal for casual arrangements and you-pick farms. However, she also addresses challenges such as their tendency to bend, issues with water quality, and poor performance in cooler storage. Liz provides insights on the best varieties for different uses and concludes with a verdict on whether zinnias are a worthwhile addition to a flower farm.

Takeaways

• Zinnias are bright, cheerful, and easy to grow flowers.
• They are a staple in many flower farms due to their high yield.
• Zinnias add volume and texture to floral arrangements.
• They thrive in hot weather, making them ideal for summer.
• Zinnias can turn water slimy quickly, affecting vase life.
• They do not store well in coolers, impacting wedding work.
• Choosing the right zinnia variety is crucial for intended use.
• The wiggle test helps determine the right time to harvest zinnias.
• Zinnias are great for you-pick sections due to their popularity.
• They are productive and profitable but come with some quirks.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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

This conversation explores various aspects of flower farming, focusing on spring blooms, growing techniques, challenges faced by farmers, and the importance of both annuals and perennials. The speakers share their experiences, mistakes, and successes in cultivating flowers, particularly in colder climates. They discuss strategies for fall planting, overwintering techniques for specific plants like eucalyptus, and the significance of timing in seed starting. The conversation concludes with insights on wildflower patches and the overall journey of flower farming. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various innovative planting techniques and strategies for flower farming, focusing on specific flowers like peonies, tulips, anemones, and feverfew. They share personal experiences with planting in high tunnels, experimenting with fall planting, and the challenges of timing blooms for events. The discussion also covers the use of frost cloth versus plastic for plant protection and the importance of staggering plantings to ensure a continuous supply of flowers throughout the growing season.

Takeaways

• Spring blooms require careful planning and knowledge.
• Mistakes in flower farming can be costly but are learning opportunities.
• High tunnels can significantly extend the growing season.
• Bells of Ireland can be tricky to grow from seed.
• Early planting is crucial for success with cold hardy annuals.
• Perennials play a vital role in early flower production.
• Eucalyptus can be overwintered with proper care and techniques.
• Timing in seed starting is essential for successful blooms.
• Wildflower patches can thrive with the right conditions and care. Experimenting with different planting techniques can yield surprising results.
• Using fabric can help keep the ground warm for early blooms.
• Fall planting can be a viable option if conditions are right.
• Lysianthus can be planted in succession for extended blooms.
• Peonies can benefit from being grown in tunnels for earlier blooms.
• Staggering tulip plantings helps manage bloom timing for events.
• Anemones and ranunculus can be grown together for a longer flowering period.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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, Liz discusses the valuable lessons learned from attending wedding expos and how they can enhance revenue for flower farmers. She emphasizes the importance of networking, showcasing seasonal flowers, managing client expectations, and the significance of authenticity in building relationships with clients. Liz also shares insights on understanding wedding budgets and the educational role florists can play in the planning process. The conversation wraps up with key takeaways and future plans for expanding her business.

Takeaways

• Never say never about adding weddings to your revenue stream.
• Wedding expos provide significant networking opportunities.
• Showcasing locally grown seasonal flowers is essential.
• Managing client expectations is crucial in wedding planning.
• Understanding wedding budgets helps in client education.
• Authenticity is key in building relationships with clients.
• Strategic displays should reflect what you can deliver.
• Weddings can be a great income source without major crop changes.
• Clear communication is vital for successful consultations.
• Future plans include expanding the business and offerings.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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/

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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

https://www.fsa.usda.gov/

The Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program provides financial assistance to specialty crop producers to help them expand domestic markets or develop new markets for their crops.

MASC helps specialty crop producers offset higher marketing costs related to:

• Tenderness and perishability of specialty crops like fruits, vegetables, floriculture, nursery crops and herbs;
• Specialized handling and transport equipment with temperature and humidity control;
• Packaging to prevent damage;
• Moving perishables to market quickly; and
• Higher labor costs.

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the USDA's Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops (MASC) program, which aims to provide financial support to specialty crop producers facing unique challenges. The episode covers the eligibility criteria, application process, and potential payouts, emphasizing the importance of accurate bookkeeping and registration with the FSA. Liz shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating the program, as well as tips for managing finances effectively in the flower farming business.

Takeaways

• The MASC program is designed to assist specialty crop producers.
• Producers can report sales based on raw goods without value added.
• Eligibility for the program requires registration with the FSA.
• The program has a total funding of $2 billion available.
• Payouts will depend on the number of applicants and reported sales.
• Accurate bookkeeping is essential for applying to the program.
• The application process is straightforward and can be completed online.
• Producers should keep detailed records to prepare for potential audits.
• The payout structure is tiered based on reported sales amounts.
• Resources and courses are available for producers needing help with bookkeeping.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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 conversation, Liz discusses her goal-setting strategies for the upcoming year, focusing on personal, business, and relationship goals. She emphasizes the importance of writing down goals, evaluating them, and adapting strategies as needed. The discussion also covers the Pedals and Profits Challenge, which aims to hold participants accountable for their goals. Liz shares insights on building relationships within the wedding industry and the significance of SMART goals in achieving success. The conversation concludes with reflections on tools and resources that can aid in reaching these goals.

Takeaways

• Setting specific goals is crucial for success.
• Evaluate your goals regularly to ensure they are realistic.
• Building relationships can significantly impact business growth.
• SMART goals help in creating a clear path to success.
• Accountability is key in achieving your goals.
• Adapt your strategies based on what works and what doesn't.
• Utilize tools and resources to streamline your processes.
• Personal goals should align with business objectives.
• Networking is essential in the wedding industry.
• Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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/

Sunny Mary Meadow Flower Farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.

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.

Helpful Links:

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

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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/

Sunny Mary Meadow Flower Farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.

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

Goal Setting Webinar on Dec 17th: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-d3536231-06cf-4e2a-8585-4a5dbb674470

Petals and Profits: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/petals&profits

In this reflective episode, Liz shares her journey of personal growth and resilience following the loss of her husband. She discusses the importance of community, the bright future of agriculture, and the power of storytelling in her speaking engagements. Liz emphasizes the significance of embracing change, authenticity, and the lessons learned through grief and new beginnings.

Takeaways

• The future of agriculture is bright, driven by passionate youth.
• Grief is a journey that requires strength and support.
• Engaging with the community can provide healing and purpose.
• Public speaking is about storytelling, not just delivering a message.
• You don't need to have everything figured out to succeed.
• Embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Authenticity in sharing your journey resonates with others.
• Life's challenges can be overcome with resilience and determination.
• Focus on what truly matters in your life and career.
• The universe often provides opportunities when you least expect it.

Helpful Links:

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

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/

Sunny Mary Meadow Flower Farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.

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