![\"Tulip](\"https:\/\/homeschoolblogger.com\/garnetcreekfarm\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/143\/2023\/04\/tulips2023a-1-768x1024.jpg\")
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First-year flower farmer here. My daughter and I planted several hundred tulip bulbs last fall, and we had no idea what to expect. We tried commercial tulip planting methods, including egg carton bulb planting. We also planted them in between chicken wire to prevent voles, squirrels, or other rodents from stealing our precious bulbs. Although no bulbs were harmed thanks to our efforts, I was shocked to see early blooms on tiny stems. My first blooms had almost no stems at all. Fortunately, as they continue to bloom, the stems are proving to be longer and longer. I was at a loss as to what to do with the stemless blooms and my husband told me to try and be creative. So, I was! I pulled those bulbs up out of the ground and potted them. What a hit! I was able to sell several potted plants similar to what is pictured below to a local florist and a local spa’s gift shop. I give all the credit to the Lord for giving me that idea. I was ready to count it a loss, but it ended up being profitable.<\/p>\n
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Only a few days later, more blooms were ready to harvest. Since the farmer’s markets that we will be selling at do not open until the end of the month, I was not sure what to do. But, Easter is just around the corner which means the timing was perfect. Even though I have clearance for a roadside stand nearby, I do not have the quantity quite yet. So, I found some old vases, made several bouquets, and brought them to a consignment shop down the road eager to sell anything fresh to their customers.<\/p>\n
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The bouquets were created by these beautiful purple tulips. I did have a handful of red, pink, yellow, and white. I will certain purchase more of those next year. They are equally as beautiful. As soon as people noticed I was selling tulips they asked if I would have roses ready for Mother’s Day. I had not planned on roses since they are not my favorite flower but since multiple people have asked, I will work on having those ready for next year. It is important to grow what the customer wants! In addition to these blooms, I have several that are on the verge of blooming. I picked them this morning and placed them in a spare refrigerator in hopes that they will hold their blooms for the first market. We will see how it goes!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
First-year flower farmer here. My daughter and I planted several hundred tulip bulbs last fall, and we had no idea what to expect. We tried commercial tulip planting methods, including