When Amanda Quinn quadrupled her growing flower garden in Randolf County County, she did not want to quadruple her watering time.
Advice on Drop Irrigation Systems Quinn, owner of Bloom: Cut Flower Farm, spoke to Dan Downing, an extension expert at the University of Missouri. Last year, a drop irrigation system was unveiled at a MU extension in a flower garden in La Lata.
In drip irrigation systems, pipes carry plants above the ground or in a slow, consistent stream over the root zone. The system saves water, improves plant growth, reduces drainage and reduces disease, says Dong.
Downing Quinn and her husband Lane helped them choose the right type of system and device. He is also working with them to get rainwater instead of relying on rural water for irrigation.
In August, Quinn’s flower garden hosted an irrigation tour of more than 60 people from nine provinces. The visit was coordinated by MU Extension Gardener Jennifer Schutt and funded by the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Special Crop Program.
Quinn is one of a handful of Missouri florists to prepare for the restoration of local flowers. More than 80% of cut flowers sold in the United States come from other countries, especially Colombia, to Miami International Airport, according to the US Department of Agriculture.
The journey from field to store is a waste of natural resources, says Quinn. New flowers are stored in refrigerators before being transported by truck to wholesalers and retailers. Foreign farmers are protected by chemicals to keep them warm during their long journeys.
Quinn says local flowers are fresher and support local businesses. She uses insect repellents such as lady bugs and green lice to control natural pests. She does not want to harm the butterflies and bees that live in her field.
About six years ago, the Mu’min graduates bought their property near Huntville. The 3-hectare plot of land behind their home was ideal for projects such as a flower garden.
They pick flowers on Fridays and Saturdays and sell them on Sunday Street at Or Street Farmers and Artists Market. They also offer flower shops in Macon, Glasgow, Fite and Salisbury. In Moverley, they take a bouquet of flowers to Randolf County County Merchant every week and receive special orders for individuals and businesses.
“I like working with other small businesses to support the local economy,” she says.
It is a very limited reason to search for quinine to take seeds to the central parts. In addition to working full-time, she and her husband spend another 40 hours a week in the flower business.
As beauty grows in the heartland, she wants to add more beds and a new subscription service next year. She hopes to improve your other businesses by working with EM extension specialists in trade, horticulture and forestry.
Follow Bloom: Cut Flower Farm at facebook.com/bloomcutflowerfarm.