Do you want to learn more about using high tunnels and caterpillar tunnels for cut flower production? SDSU Extension will host a High Tunnel and Cut Flower Field Day at Freedom Acres (47912 187th Street, Brandt, SD 57218) and Blue Dasher Farm (46958 188th St, Estelline, SD 57234) on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
This event is for current and beginning farmers, technical service providers, gardeners, and anyone who would like to learn more about growing cut flowers outdoors and under protective tunnels. Connie Johnson and Christina Lind will each share the realities of getting started in cut flower farming, how they are adding infrastructure, and their vision for the future of their farm businesses. They have both kindly agreed to share the good, the bad, and the lessons learned along the way.
The interactive tours at both farms will highlight unique aspects such as recovering from storm damage, adding rain catchment, troubleshooting soil fertility, incorporating on-farm research, managing livestock integration, and harvesting native prairie plants for bouquets. Kristine Lang of SDSU Extension and Morgan Hughes of the South Dakota Specialty Producers Association will join Connie, Christina, and attendees to discuss cut flower resources within South Dakota.
The morning will begin at Freedom Acres and will include the opportunity to purchase specialty coffee drinks from a local vendor. After the tour concludes at Blue Dasher Farm, a free picnic lunch will be served. Visitors are asked to bring their own lawn chair and/or picnic blanket as limited seating will be provided. This rain or shine event is open to all members of the public. In the event of an active storm watch or warning the event will be canceled. Families are welcome, but please leave all pets at home. Please watch for signage that will direct visitors to parking upon arrival at each location. This tour will include walking, so please wear appropriate footwear that can get dirty.
Source: sdstate.edu