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Investigations Into the Feasibility of Cut Flowers as a Crop-2002 Report

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This is a 2002 report from a NC Specialty Crops Program Project. It is posted for historical reference purposes.

Reviewed by Jeanine Davis, NC Alternative Crops & Organics Program, Department of Horticultural Science, NC State University on 1011/2022.

PROJECT LEADER(S): Peg Godwin
TYPE OF PROJECT: On-farm trial
LOCATION: Kennedy Farm (Lenoir County), N.C. Cooperative Extension, Lenoir County Center

IMPACT

This research explores the potential of cut flower production as an alternative source or replacement for tobacco income. A variety of species and markets were investigated for suitability and profitability for growers in North Carolina, and several have shown promising results to date.

INTRODUCTION

Test crops of several specialty cut flowers have been grown on the Kennedy Farm in southern Lenoir County, formerly a thriving tobacco farm. Most cut flower varieties were started in the greenhouse and planted in the field: gomphrena, achillea, asclepias, zinnia, delphinium, shasta daisy, blue kiwi, cosmos, scabiosa, and helipterum. Sunflowers were the exception as they were directly sown in the field.

RESULTS

A large population of worms stopped the sale of sunflowers because of concern for the quality of each stem sold. Deer damage to the helipterum plants was significant-they were pulled completely out of the soil.

Cuts were harvested and marketed at local florists and a farmers market with the majority of sales made through wholesale florists. Marketing through grocery chains was explored and shipping supplies designed and purchased. The top four sellers providing over $3000 in gross sales were sunflower, delphinium, achillea and zinnia.

CONCLUSION

Specialty cut flowers can provide some income to farmers. Continued research is needed to establish markets and determine suitable varieties. North Carolina growers can benefit from production of specialty cut flowers but only for a limited number of farms. The choice of floral species grown is a dynamic process due to fluctuating demand. Marketing is definitely an essential component in gaining income from cut flower production.

PHOTOS

Delphiniums in the field early in the growing season

Delphiniums in the field

Delphiniums plants in flats in the greenhouse

Delphiniums in the greenhouse

transition field

Transition field

educational display about the project

Educational Display