Real Talk with Farmer Bailey: Business Growth Advice from Flower Farmers

W A T C H 📺 Real Talk with Farmer Bailey from April 26’s Instagram Live.
In this honest conversation, expert flower farmer Bailey Hale shares farming business tips and advice for new and seasoned growers alike. Veteran farmers share the one thing they wish they knew when they started out, and viewer questions are answered.
In this one-hour chat with viewer Q&A:
+Learn why starting with soil testing and market research will save you thousands of dollars and a river of tears.
+ Clearly identify your strengths and weaknesses and determine the scale of your business, before buying a single plug, seed or bulb.
+ Hear from veteran flower farmers on the best investments for your business (hint: Don't even try to start selling flowers without a cooler)
+ How to find an great accountant in your area who understands farm business
Share your top tip, farming hack, or the one thing you wish you knew when you started out in the Comments, below

[@HikeMichigan]

Thank you for keeping the spirit of generosity.

[@OllieTheKing]

Thank you Bailey, from a fledgling farmer here in WA. Love your videos

[@michelleodell1236]

Very informative video. Thanks so much for making this!

[@r37l36]

Hello, excellent video and very informative. I’m wondering your thoughts on starting a flower farm in zone 3b. Would you think I have a long enough season to even consider a profitable flower farm business. Frost dates are about mid to late May to mid September (about 110 days). Thank you in advance for your time in replying.

[@farmerbaileyplugs]

Hi, thank you so much for tuning in! There are many profitable farms in short season climates. You will need to investigate what grows well in your climate, look for other farmers in your area, and get an idea of how much revenue you need to generate to support yourself. It is definitely possible! ~Felicia

[@r37l36]

Thank you so much for the quick reply. Being profitable is key. I will continue to work towards building a solid business plan. Thanks again.

[@heatherbright7214]

I love all the information you have given us. I do have a question. I do not know if you would know anything about a particular type of bulb called camassia. I am having a hard time finding any information about when to harvest, post harvest care, vase life expectancy, and should i be putting anything or not put anything in the water bucket for conditions conducting. Most of the information i can find is the history, where they grow, and that some are edible. The few professionals i have been able to ask about them have never heard of them.

[@farmerbaileyplugs]

Hi Heather! Thanks so much for watching. We don't have any information on Camassia as a cut flower. It is readily available in the bulb industry, but it's not something we've seen used as a cut. ~Felicia