MF1034 Specialty Cut Flowers: a Commercial Growers Guide

Home , Achillea filipendulina, Anemone coronaria, Astilbe, Clarkia amoena, Clivia miniata, Consolida regalis

CUT FLOWERS A COMMERCIAL GROWERS GUIDE

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service 3

Contents

“More than anything, I must have flowers, always, always.” —Claude Monet 5

Introduction ...... 5 Choosing a Site Preparing the Bed What To Grow: The Ideal Crop Definitions Fresh Cut Flowers—Annuals Fresh Cut Flowers—Perennials Fresh Cut Flowers—Bulbs Fresh Cut Flowers—Flowering Woody Stems Dried Materials—Flowers and Miscellaneous Plant Parts Planting ...... 9 When to Plant Annuals Biennials Perennials How to Plant Plant Density Crop Support How to Grow ...... 11 Watering Fertilizer Weed Control Disease Control Table 1. Diseases Common to Flowering Plants 6

Harvest ...... 18 Table 2. Optimal Development Stage of Cut Flowers for Direct Sale Postharvest ...... 22 Pulsing Marketing and Selling Table 3. Flowers Particularly Sensitive to Ethylene Summary ...... 24 Recommendations Summarized References Suppliers ...... 25 Cut Flower Seeds Plugs, Transplants, and Bulbs Preservatives and Dyes Cleaning Supplies Synthetic, Organic, and Biological Controls Soluble Organic Fertilizers Containers, Harvest, Holding, Packing Seeding and Planting Equipment Tillage and Bedding Equipment Transplanting Equipment Irrigation Equipment General Materials Recommended Reading ...... 29 Directories ...... 31 Organizations ...... 32 7

Introduction

Many agricultural producers in Kansas are considering alternative enterprises to increase their incomes. Field production of specialty fresh or dried cut flowers could be a profitable alternative crop in Kansas. Our state has a climate advantageous to production of many flowers, grasses, and grains for the floral and decorative crafts markets. Perennial flowers that are high in demand, such as Liatris, are native to Kansas and flourish in our climate and soils. National, regional, and local markets exist for high- quality specialty cut flowers. These markets can be served with Kansas-grown products.

The outdoor production of specialty cut flowers is an old segment of the floriculture industry currently in revival across the country. The market conditions, technology and varieties are new. As an emerging industry, it offers unique opportunities for those who enter. This publication discusses basic cut flower production factors. The term “cut flower” in this publication refers to all fresh and dried flowers, seed heads and stalks, and all plant parts used for floral and decorative purposes.

Choosing a Site Labor efficiency is a critical from public roads to parking areas Most cut flowers prefer a loca- factor in choosing a site. Flower and from parking to the fields will tion in full sun throughout the production requires intensive enhance the consumer’s overall entire day. The field and soil management. The site should shopping experience. should be well drained. Wind have ready access for production protection is highly desirable for equipment and removal and Preparing the Bed all plants. Windbreaks serve to handling of the harvested prod- Plants should be grown in beds reduce water stress on plants and uct. Study the proposed site for raised 4–6 inches to maximize help prevent stem breakage and ease in movement of materials drainage. Poorly drained soil floral damage. It is important to and plants into it to begin produc- should be corrected by placing consider any competitive effect tion, within the site while pro- drain lines 10–12 inches deep which may occur from the roots ducing and harvesting the crop, under the beds. Check for the of any plant used as a windbreak. and of the harvested crop to existence of a hardpan in the soil. The site should have sufficient storage and packing areas. The A deep-rooted cover crop such as cold air drainage to avoid recur- idea is to maximize efficiency of alfalfa may help to break up the ring early or late season frosts. the labor required for all produc- hardpan. A well-drained soil A source of irrigation water is tion and marketing functions. environment is essential for essential. If animal foraging is a If a pick-your-own marketing maximum root development and problem, fencing may be required. strategy is your choice, a site with reduces the potential for root rot easy access is critical. Easy access problems. 8

Organic matter should be A worker can efficiently reach Biennial: A plant that normally incorporated into the beds to only 2 feet into a bed to make a requires two years to complete its a depth of 10–12 inches. The proper cut and remove the flower life cycle. It will grow and produce addition of organic matter is best without damage to the crop. leaves, but produces flowers and if incorporated in the fall, but can Bed length also is set to maxi- seed pods only after subsequently be done anytime before planting mize the area in production versus undergoing a cold period, usually if the nitrogen status of the soil the area in aisles. The limiting the second year. is monitored. Remember that for factor to bed length is labor Perennial: A plant which has beds planted to perennials, it may efficiency. The maximum distance a life span of more than two years, not be possible to work additional a worker should carry harvested but flowers for only a set period organic matter deep into the soil flowers is about 50–60 feet. during the season. until the plants are divided or Planting beds should be 100– replaced. For these beds, sufficient 120 feet long. Fresh Cut Flowers— organic matter should be added Annuals initially to provide a soil structure What To Grow: Ageratum houstonianum—Floss with optimum aeration and The Ideal Crop flower; in demand for blue flower; drainage. An ideal cut flower crop, either a variety to try is ‘Blue Horizon.’ Always have the soil tested for fresh or dried, would have the Ammi majus—Queen Anne’s nutrient content before adding following characteristics: lace, snowflake; white lacy head any fertilizer to the planting bed. •low cost of production— can be dyed. Production decisions made materials and labor Antirrhinum majus—Snapdragon; without adequate information are •high value and unlimited tall spike required, varieties to try merely guesses and can be costly. demand are Rocket and the Potomacs. If nitrogen levels are low and large •high production per square foot Callistephus chinensis—China amounts of organic matter have of bed space aster; many cutting strains avail- been added, an application of •extended production and able, the Florett Series is an extra- 20–45 pounds of actual nitrogen marketing season double, large-flowered type. per acre prior to planting may •long productive life Caution: aster yellows, a disease be appropriate. •ability to sell fresh and to sell transmitted by insects, is devastat- Marketing strategy, plant growth surplus as a dried or preserved ing and difficult to control. habit, and labor efficiency deter- floral product Celosia cristata—Cockscomb, mine the ideal size of a planting •postharvest vase life of at least feather or plume Celosia; for the bed. If a pick-your-own market 7 days red crested flower try the Chief strategy is the choice, beds should •resistance to diseases and pests Series. The Sparkler Series is a red 1 be narrow—about 2 ⁄2–3 feet wide of all types feather-type to try. Wheat celosia —so consumers easily can pick •resistance to heat and drought bear slender white plumes during their flowers without damaging stress summer heat and are rose tinted the crop. Bed length should be •long stems (18 inches) under cool nights of fall. about 25 feet, with sodded aisles •easy harvest and handling Centaurea cyanus—Cornflower, to provide customers with quick •aesthetically pleasing and/or bachelors’ buttons; frilly buttons and clean access to any product fragrant flowers, foliage, or of white, pink, and blue. they desire. Traditional produc- stems Centaurea americana— tion beds are 3–4 feet wide No single species or variety Cornflower; much larger flowers depending on the growth habit of plant material will meet all than C. cyanus, lilac-pink color. of the crop. of these criteria. They are pre- Clarkia amoena—Godetia; try Bed width is set to allow maxi- sented here to provide a means the Grace Series; prefers cool mum light penetration to the of evaluating the relative desir- temperatures. center of the bed and to facilitate ability of producing a crop of a Consolida regalis—Larkspur; harvesting. The wider a bed is, the specific plant. Giant Imperial Strain is the better the ratio of production standard strain; try Qis Series space to aisle space and the greater Definitions and ‘Blue Cloud.’ the return per acre. Tall, dense Annual: A plant that lives, Dianthus barbatus—Sweet flower growth habits reduce the grows, and dies with a completed William; old types are biennials, amount of light reaching lower life cycle within a single year, new types act like true annuals; leaves in the center of the bed. usually blooms continually during try the new Pride of Park Avenue its life cycle. Series. 9

Eustoma grandiflorum— Fresh Cut Flowers— E. x zabelii. Eryngium alpinum Lisianthus, sweet lissies; Yodels is the most difficult to grow, but are the standard variety but Perennials is the largest-flowered with several also try the Echo Series and Achillea filipendulina—Yarrow, great blue cones surrounded by the Heidi Series. fernleaf yarrow; try ‘Gold Plate’ prickly calyx frills. Gypsophila elegans—Annual and ‘Coronation Gold.’ For other Gypsophila paniculata—Perennial baby’s breath; most commonly colors try ‘Jambo’ (soft yellow), baby’s breath; the standard “filler” grown are the large-flowered white ‘Lilac Improved’ (lilac pink), of the floral industry; used fresh form, but the smaller-flowered ‘Lusaka’ (pure white), ‘Nakuru’ or dried; suited to dry, light, and pink, rose, and purple also have a (purple and white), ‘Sawa Sawa’ slightly alkaline soils. Vegetatively market. Recommended for fresh (dark purple), and ‘Wesersand- produced plants have large, fully use only. stein’ (light pink). double flowers; ‘Perfecta’ is the Helianthus debilis cucumerifolius Artemisia ludoviciana—White standard. Can be seed grown, but —Sunflower; relatively small sage; grown for the silver-gray will have smaller flowers and only flower of yellow to white and foliage which is used fresh or in a portion will have double flowers. shades of mahogany and rust. dried form. ‘Silver King’ and ‘Silver Liatris—Gayfeather, blazing star; Try ‘Sunbright’ and ‘Full Sun,’ Queen’ are standard cultivars. one of the longest lasting and regularly branched plants which Asclepias incarnata & Asclepias finest cut flowers; native to Kansas; do not produce pollen. In our tuberosa—Butterfly flower; rose- well adapted to our climate and trials, pollen production has purple and neon orange respec- soils; long-lived plants. Produce proven to be a quality objection- tively; easy to grow, shippable, for local markets only; over-supply able to the consumer. Pollen shed and long-lasting cut flowers. in national market. from the vase causes a mess. Aster novi-belgii & Aster Paeonia—Peony; herbaceous Iberis amara—Rocket candytuft; ericoides—Aster; hybrids of both types are among the choicest fragrant and early bloomer. species are good cut flowers; of fresh and dried cut flowers; Limonium sinuatum—Annual ‘Monte Casino’ is the standard extremely long-lived; short harvest statice; try Excellent Series, variety grown, the Master Series season but can be stored cool and Qis Series, and the Turbo Series. is among the best of the new dry for up to 12 weeks. Kansas has Surplus production may be hybrids. a competitive advantage in the marketed in dried form. Astilbe—Astilbe, false spirea; commercial production of peonies Molucella laevis—Bells of Ireland; requires moist soil in summer; because of climate. Plants require apple green “flowers” (calces); color range of white, pink, red, 3–5 years from planting to reach surplus production may be used and lavender. productive potential. Demand in dried form. Chrysanthemum x superbum— currently exceeds supply for both Nigella damascena—Love-in-a- Shasta daisy; most popular from fresh and dried flowers. mist; delicate flowers for fresh use; cuttings is ‘T.E. Killin’ and ‘Alaska’ Platycodon grandiflorum—Balloon allow surplus production to set from seed; prolific bloomers flower; large bellflowerlike fruit for sale as fresh material, adaptable to most soils; plants are blooms follow balloonlike buds; further surplus fruit may be used not long-lived without frequent adapts to a wide range of soil in dried form. division. types; will tolerate some shade. Scabiosa atropurpurea—Pin- Echinops bannaticus, Echinops Salvia farinacea—Blue salvia, cushion flower; dense, rounded, exaltatus, Echinops ritro, Echinops mealycup sage; strong grower in rich colored, flower heads. sphaerocephalus—Globe thistle; extreme heat; can be used as fresh Zinnia elegans—Zinnia; several rich blue to very light blue; or dried material; try ‘Victoria,’ flower types and sizes available. excellent producers for either ‘Catima,’ and ‘Blue Bedder.’ Salvia Never water overhead; subject to fresh or dried markets; long-lived, is sensitive to methyl-bromide leaf diseases. The dahlia-flowered but should not be transplanted. treated soil. ‘Giant Mammoth,’ the cactus- Eryngium amethystinum & Scabiosa caucasica—Pincushion flowered ‘Zenith’ and the State Eryngium planum—Eryngo, flower; a traditional florists’ cut Fair series are reported to be the sea holly; easiest of the eryngo flower; easy to grow and adaptable best of the large flowering zinnias. to grow; excellent fresh or dried; to most soils; try ‘Fama’ and Try the Pumila Series, Ruffles and small silvery-blue to purple-blue ‘Complement,’ lilac blue or white Cut-and-Come-Again for smaller flowers; try ‘Donau,’ ‘Blue seed strains. sized flowers. Star,’ ‘Blue Diamond,’ ‘Silver Solidago—Goldenrod; hybrids Stone,’ and ‘Fluella.’ Larger- from Holland are better than our flowered types are E. bourgatti and native species; easy, trouble-free, 10

and adaptable to most soils. Note: Consolida regalis (larkspur) Limonium suworowii (rattail) Goldenrod does not cause Daucus carota (Queen Anne’s lace) Limonium tataricum (German) hayfever symptoms. Echinops (globe thistle) Lunaria (money plant) Eryngium (seaholly) Nigella (love-in-a-mist, Fresh Cut Flowers—Bulbs Eucalyptus devil-in-the-bush) Allium—Flowering onion; all Chrysanthemum parthenium Papaver somniferum (poppy pods) species are good fresh cut flowers; (feverfew) Rosa (roses) easy to grow and adaptable to any Gomphrena golbosa (globe Tanacetum (tansy) well-drained soil. The best species amaranth) Xeranthemum (common for cutting are: A. aflatunense, Grass and Grains (Wheat, black immortelle) A. caeruleum, A. giganteum, and bearded and Durum; rye, oats, Zea Mays (corn) A. spaerocephalum. rice, buffalo, quaking, barley, When choosing plants to grow, Gladiolus—Gladioli; staggered canary, flax, hare’s tale, milo, start with a test plot. Begin small planting for continuous harvest; sorghum,) and learn how to grow the plant plant new corms each year; dig Gypsophila perfecta & G. paniculata and determine if it is suitable and and sell corms each fall. Standard (baby’s breath) economical to produce under your item for florist and farmers’ Helichrysum bracteatum specific conditions. You should be market sales. Try both standard (strawflower) able to produce a high-quality and “baby” glads; the new hybrid Helipterum manglesii (Rhodanthe) product before expanding produc- Parigo Series is an intermediate Helipterum manglesii (Acroclinum) tion beyond the experimental type glad. Hydrangea stage. Keep a journal. You will find Lilium—Lily; the Asiatic and Lavandula (lavender) little or no information available Aurelian hybrids along with the Lepidium (peppergrass) on many plant materials you may Oriental hybrids L. auratum, L. Limonium latifolia (latifolia) wish to grow. Your experience will rubellum, and L. speciosum are best Limonium caspicum (caspia) be useful for production decisions for commercial cut flower produc- Limonium sinuatum (annual in subsequent seasons. tion. Try the white flowered sinuata) Oriental hybrid ‘Casa Blanca.’ Fresh Cut Flowers— Flowering Woody Stems The stems of Forsythia, Salix, and Chaenomeles can be cut when dormant, held cool and forced into bloom as fresh flowers for late winter and early spring sales. Dried Materials— Flowers and Miscellaneous Plant Parts The following list of the top 30 flowers for drying is the result of a membership survey by the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. Achillea (yarrows) Ammobium (herb) Artemisia (silver king, queen, and annual Sweet Annie) Branches of Plants (myrtle, cedar, willow) Iberis sempervireas (candytuff) Carthamus tinctorius (safflower) Foxtail, Celosia cristata (cockscomb) Milo, Wheat 11

Planting

When to Plant Biennials place over winter, they Planting dates depend on your Biennials should be planted typically will bloom at the target market and on plant in the fall to ensure an adequate same time. Extended bloom classification—whether it is an cold treatment before regrowth periods can be achieved by annual, biennial, or perennial. In starts in the spring. The overwin- digging in the fall, placing in o general, the peak demand for the ter cold treatment is required for 40 F storage, and planting retail florist trade is from fall more uniform flowering. If beds every 2–3 weeks beginning in through Mother’s Day. Field or plants are not ready for plant- mid-spring. Examples in this production of fresh cut flowers for ing in the fall, some alternatives group are liatris and lilies. this market should include plant- exist. Placing the plants into cold 2. nonhardy plants which have ing for maximum harvest in the storage or spraying them with storage organs and must be spring and fall seasons. Farmers 500–1,000 parts per million of dug each year. Continuous markets typically operate from late gibberellic acid will substitute for bloom periods are relatively spring until frost in the fall. overwintering the plants in the easy to achieve by staggering Consistent production throughout bed. While these alternatives do the planting dates from spring this period is most desirable. promote flowering, production through mid-summer. The quantity and quality are reduced additional labor required Annuals compared with fall-planted stock. to dig, store, and replant Annuals are planted into the Biennials tend to bloom in increases their cost of produc- field as soon as the danger of frost a condensed time period. Stag- tion. The economics of is past. Using transplants will gered plantings typically will not producing each species should bring the crop into flower earlier result in staggered periods of be analyzed before extensive and may return higher prices early bloom. Most biennials will bloom production is undertaken. on if you are able to harvest for at the same time unless subjected Examples in this group are the Mother’s Day market. Sequen- to cold storage or gibberellic acid anemones, dahlias, gladiolus, tial plantings may be required treatments. Some biennials are and ranunculus. to assure a continuous supply excellent cut flowers but because 3. cold-hardy plants which have of product throughout the market of this concentrated, all-at-once rhizomes or a clump-forming season. Staggered plantings—two bloom habit, few are grown as growth habit and may be left weeks apart into July—are com- commercial crops. undisturbed for a few to mon for many annuals. Trans- several years before being Perennials plants may be used initially to divided. After the first year, Perennials are placed into hit the earliest possible market, plants in this category tend to categories based on the presence with later plantings direct seeded. bloom together, typically or absence of storage organs and When choosing cultivars, be within a week or so of the whether they must be dug in the careful to select those suitable for same time each year. Bloom fall and replanted each spring. cut flower production. Many periods can be extended 1. cold-hardy plants which have annuals have been developed for slightly through cultivar storage organs and can remain use as bedding plants and are not selection. Examples of plants in the ground for several suited for commercial cut flower in this group are peony and years. If allowed to remain in production. shasta daisy. 12

How to Plant of bed space and not the number on growth habit of individual In general, transplants should of flowers per plant. In general, species and the growing be planted shallow, with the roots the closer the spacing of annuals conditions. placed just below the soil surface. the more flowers produced. A It should be noted that closer Planting too deep reduces oxygen 4- to 6-inch spacing within the spacings produce more flowers per exchange between the newly row and 6–8 inches between rows square foot of bed, but also reduce developing root system and the is ideal for most annual flowers. air circulation within the bed. atmosphere, slowing growth. Too This will vary depending on the Poor air circulation could increase deep planting encourages the growth habit of each species and the likelihood of foliar diseases. development of root and stem on the specific environment of the If powdery mildew or leaf spot rots. The soil around the transplanting site. fungus is a common problem on plants should be firmed to remove Perennials left in place each year a species you intend to produce, large pockets of air but not so have the potential to crowd each then a slightly wider spacing may much so as to pack the soil. All other to an extent that may reduce be appropriate. overall production in succeeding plants should be watered as soon Crop Support years. Plants that may be divided after planting as possible. Delay- Some cut flowers may need every 3 years (shasta daisy) may be ing the application of water to the support to ensure a high percent- planted closer than plants which newly planted crop may severely age of straight stems. A plastic or may be divided every 20 years or reduce overall production. nylon material in rolls of either more (peony). a 4- or 6-inch mesh is a popular Plant Density In general, perennials are supporting material. It is laid out A closely spaced crop of annual planted at about a 1-foot spacing, horizontally and suspended above flowers will usually produce more within and between rows. Peonies the bed by attaching to steel fence flowers over the growing season are planted 3 feet apart in a single posts placed along the edges of than a crop at wider spacing. The row or staggered in a double row, the bed. Other methods exist and essential criteria in cut flower with a 3-foot spacing within each any method which produces the production is the number of row and 2 feet between rows. desired result with low cost and flowers produced per square foot Plant density will vary depending minimal labor is acceptable.

Zinnia 13

How to Grow

Specialty cut flowers are a high-dollar crop. Their value is measured in dollars per square foot, not dollars per acre. Withholding or delaying application of any input, which reduces flower production or quality, is false economy.

Watering around each plant. Spacing of crop needs. Higher rates are Specialty cut flowers grown irrigation lines depends on soil required in the initial phases in the field, for fresh or dried type and structure. Coarse, open of growth while you are building markets, will require more total soils require closer spacing than the size of the plants. Lower rates water than many other field crops. dense, fine soils. The irrigation are required as a crop approaches To maintain floral quality and system plan should be developed harvest. For crops with a harvest peak production, the plants must by a competent designer, with the that extends throughout the be watered frequently, sometimes grower having a thorough under- growing season, lighter and more daily with some soil types. A water standing of the system and its frequent application of nitrogen source of sufficient volume and operation. may be necessary to reduce the quality should be readily available Irrigation should be scheduled nonproductive cycle between to the production area. Growers based on the soil moisture status flushes of bloom. Nitrogen defi- in Kansas should not attempt in the root zone. Proper irrigation ciency is the most common to produce cut flowers without management provides sufficient nutrient problem. Many growers supplemental watering. Natural but not excessive water to the incorporate 25–45 pounds of rainfall is not sufficient nor crop. Water stress will reduce actual nitrogen per acre before reliable. Without supplemental production and quality of a crop. planting. Minor element deficien- watering, production may not A consistently saturated soil will cies are common in areas of be economically realistic. reduce growth and promote the Kansas with alkaline water or soils. development of root rot. The Overhead watering is not Weed Control recommended. It may physically amount and frequency of water Weeds must be controlled in damage the flowers, cause spotting required will vary with the the field production of cut flow- on the petals, splash soil onto the weather and stage of maturity ers. Competition with weeds foliage, and promote the spread of of the crop. reduces the quantity and quality disease. Some type of drip irriga- Fertilizer of floral production. A bed full of tion is recommended. It has the Before initiating any fertilizer weeds increases the time required advantage of placing the water on program, always test the soil for to harvest, raising labor costs. Due the ground where it is needed and nutrient content. The increased to limited production of many not on the flowers or foliage. water requirement of cut flowers species of specialty cut flowers, The basic principle in designing creates an increased requirement only a few herbicides are labeled an irrigation system for cut flowers for fertilization. The application for use. Contact your county is to place the water uniformly of fertilizer should coincide with 14

Extension agent for an update on herbicides labeled for flower production. Weed barriers can be used. They have the added benefit of restricting soil splash onto foliage and flowers from rain and irrigation. The most common barriers in use are plastics and paper. The major disadvantage with plastic mulches may be in their disposal after removal from the bed. The barriers restrict water evaporation from the soil surface, reducing loss and maintaining a more consistent soil moisture content. Straw and wood chips have been used as mulches to reduce weed competition, improve water retention, and reduce temperature fluctuations within the soil. Being organic materials, they slowly decompose and increase organic matter in the soil. They are Columbine applied in a 2- to 4-inch layer and must be reapplied each year. A hoe and hand weeding are chemical pesticides. Monitoring increase the spacing between the best methods for control. insect species and keeping records plants slightly to improve air Availability and cost of labor may as to insect numbers and location circulation around the foliage. be prohibitive in all but the are integral parts of the program. Powdery mildew and black leaf smallest production situations. Biological controls using para- spot are two of the most common sites, predators, and pathogens foliar diseases. Botrytis attacks Insect Control can help keep insect levels in flowers during cool damp weather. Good cultural practices are the balance. They are especially useful Improper watering or frequent best insect control available. A when the grower specializes in rains may cause some root rot healthy, actively growing plant only a few crops. Biologicals tend problems. These can be minimized is more resilient to insect attack. to be specific to an insect on a by planting on raised beds. Occa- The ideal approach is a preventa- crop. It is easier to manage an sionally Fusarium and Verticillium tive program. Control insects insect on a crop than it is to wilt have become problems. Aster early, when they are first detected. manage several insects on a Yellows Virus can be devastating Do not wait until a serious infesta- variety of crops. on susceptible crops. tion occurs. Less chemical can be All chemicals should be applied The best approach to disease applied to a smaller area to intelligently. Always apply at the control is a preventative program. control these hot spots as they lowest possible effective rate. Manage the crop. Don’t neglect it. develop than would be required to Learn the life cycles of all insects Practice good sanitation; keep the spray the entire crop. Aphids, leaf associated with the culture of your field free of weeds and plant hoppers, spider mites, and thrips crops. Know which stage of each debris. Adjust planting density for are the most common insects insect’s life cycle is susceptible each species to allow sufficient air encountered. to which chemical spray. Spray circulation within the bed. Con- Integrated pest management only when control is possible. trol leaf hoppers and thrips to (IPM) is the process of using all reduce the potential for spreading the different methods of control- Disease Control virus. Rogue out diseased plants ling insects in an integrated Foliar fungus diseases are the and remove from the production approach. The main goal is to most serious disease problem area. Table 1 describes diseases reach an acceptable level of insect on cut flowers. If mildew or other common to many flowering control with minimal use of foliar diseases are a recurring plants. problem, it might be wise to 15

Table 1. Diseases Common to Flowering Plants

Host Disease Symptoms Aster Botrytis stem and petal rot Small brown to black lesions (Botrytis cinerea) develop on the stems or petals. During humid weather, a dusty gray growth of the fungus covers diseased tissue. Rust Yellow, orange, or dark red pustules (Several fungi) form on leaves. Severe infection may result in premature defoliation. Generally not a serious problem. Powdery mildew White powdery patches develop (Erysiphe sp.) on leaf surface. Fusarium wilt Young plants may develop a root (Fusarium oxysporum f. callestephi) and topple over. Older plants may be stunted and yellow, and eventually wilt and die. A brown discoloration can be found in the vascular system. Aster yellows Affected leaves develop yellowing (Mycoplasmalike organism) of veins. Growing points turn light yellow-green and give rise to abnormal growth.

Canna Bud rot Infected leaves develop large (Xanthomonas cannae) irregular spots as they unfurl from the bud. The bacteria (which reside in the bud) also attack flower stems or petals.

Chrysanthemum Leaf spots Small circular spots develop on (Alternaria and Septoria sp.) leaves. Extensive spotting may cause premature defoliation. Botrytis blight Generally restricted to the (Botrytis cinerea) greenhouse, this disease causes blighting of flower petals. A dusty, gray growth covers diseased tissue during humid conditions. Aster yellows See discussion under aster. (Mycoplasmalike organism) Virus diseases Several viruses affect chrysanthemum; includes mosaics, distortion, rosetting, and yellowing. Wilt Leaves turn yellow and die from the (Verticillium sp. and Fusarium sp.) bottom of plant toward top. Infected plants are stunted or killed.

Cosmos Powdery mildew White powdery growth on surface (Erysiphe sp.) of leaves. 16

Host Disease Symptoms Dahlia Crown gall Large wartlike swelling forms on (Agrobacterium tumefaciens) crowns of diseased plants. Wilt Lower leaves on affected plants turn (Fusarium sp. and Verticillium alboatrum) yellow and wilt. Symptoms progress toward top of the plant. Brown or black streaks may develop in the vascular system. Plants are stunted or killed. Root rot Aboveground symptoms similar (Various fungi) to wilt; however, roots are discolored and rotted. Powdery mildew White powdery growth on the (Erysiphe sp.) surface of leaves.

Delphinium or Larkspur Stem rot Large, circular patches of plants may (Delphinium)(Sclerotium sp.) die during warm weather. Affected plants develop a serious root rot and collapse. Small, tan to brown, round fungal structures called sclerotia associated with dead plants. Powdery mildew White powdery growth on surface (Erysiphe and Sphaerothaeca sp.) of leaves.

Gladiolus Fusarium crown (corm) rot During the growing season, leaves (Fusarium oxysporum f. gladioli) on affected plants turn yellow prematurely. During storage, corms develop a dry rot. Diseased corms produce spindly, weak plants the following year.

Hollyhock Rust Small yellow spots appear on the (Althlaea) (Puccinia malvacearm) upper surface of the leaves. Brick-red pustules or blisters form on the lower leaf surface.

Iris Iris leaf spot Circular to oval straw-colored spots (Didymellina macrospora) develop on leaves; spots surrounded by a brown to purple margin. Bacterial soft rot Leaves of affected plants develop (Erwinia caratovora) a water-soaked appearance. Rhizomes develop a foul-smelling soft rot; the disease often follows injury caused by the iris borer. Scorch Central leaves wither and die back (Cause unknown) from tips. Affected leaves may turn reddish-brown. Rhizome remains firm but center of roots rot leaving outer layer. Roots collapse and can easily be pulled from the rhizome. 17

Host Disease Symptoms Lily Botrytis blight Orange to reddish-brown circular (Lilium)(Botrytis eliptica) spots on leaves, stems, buds, and flowers. Grayish fungal growth appears in spots during wet weather.

Marigold Aster yellows Affected leaves first develop (Tagetes)(Mycoplasmalike organism) yellowing along veins. Growing points turn light yellow-green and give rise to abnormal growth. Botrytis blight Browning and decay of flowers. (Botrytis cinerea) Grayish fungal growth appears on infected petals during wet weather. Fusarium wilt Discoloration and decay of root (Fusarium sp.) and lower stem. Interior of lower stem may have a pinkish-red discoloration.

Narcissus Basal rot-bulb rot A dry rot develops in roots, then (Daffodil) (Narcissus) (Fusarium oxysporum Penicillium spp.) spreads to center of bulb and out. Bulbs turn dark brown and pink (Fusarium) or bluish-green (Penicillium); fungal growth may form between scales.

Pansy Anthracnose First symptoms are small spots (Viola, Violet) (Viola)(Colletotrichum violae-tricoloris) on leaves with a dark margin. Spots enlarge and dark concentric rings develop within them. Spots on petals have a dark center and light brown border. Stem lesions are elongated, brown, and water soaked. Botrytis blight Soft, slimy decay of leaves and (Botrytis cinerea) flowers. Gray fungal growth develops on infected plant parts during wet weather. Rust Yellowish-orange spots on upper leaf (Puccinia violae) surface; spots are pale green on underside of leaf. Petioles and stems may also be infected. Brown and black pustules develop later in growing season.

Peony Botrytis blight Sudden wilting of shoots. Brown (Paeonia) (Botrytis cinerea) or black rot can be seen at the base of stems, below ground. Grayish fungal growth visible on stems just above soil line. Infected flowers turn brown, and large, irregular brown areas develop on leaves. Fungal growth may also develop on infected plant parts. 18

Host Disease Symptoms Peony continued Phytophthora blight Infected stems, leaves, blossoms, (Phytophthora cactorum) and buds are brown and leathery. Black cankers form on stems and cause them to fall over. Red spot, measles Small, dark red circular spots (Cladosporium paeoniae) on leaves. Spots coalesce to form blotches that are dark purple on lower surface. Iron chlorosis Interveinal yellowing of leaves. Scorching of leaf margins may occur in severe cases.

Phlox Leaf spot Most spots appear as small, dark (Several fungi) circular lesions on lower leaves. Some spots may have light centers. Spotting may cause drying and premature death of leaves. Powdery mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Erysiphe cichoracearum and Sphaerotheca humili)

Salvia Powdery mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Erysiphe sp.)

Snapdragon Anthracnose Sunken spots on older stems and (Antirrhinum)(Colletotrichum antirrhini) leaves are pale yellow to gray with a brown border. Small black fruiting bodies of the fungus are visible within the spots. Powder mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Oidium sp.) Rust Powdery orange pustules on leaves (Puccinia antirrhini) and stems. Later in the season pustules turn black. Plants wilt and die quickly.

Stocks Powdery mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Matthiola)

Sweet Pea Powdery mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Lathyrus)(Microsphaeria sp.) 19

Host Disease Symptoms Tulip Botrytis blight (Fire) First symptoms are small brown (Tulipa)(Botrytis tulipae) spots on foliage and flowers. Spots enlarge and form blighted areas with a grayish center and dark margin. During wet weather, gray fungal growth may be seen in blighted areas. Stems may rot and small bulbs may be infected. Bulb lesions are yellow to brown and may contain small black fruiting bodies of the fungus.

Yucca Leaf spot Irregular brown spots on leaves. (Kellermania anomala)

Zinnia Leaf spot-blight Small reddish-brown leaf spots with (Alternaria zinniae) gray centers. Dark brown cankers may develop on stems and flowers may be spotted or blighted. Powdery mildew White powdery growth on leaves. (Erysiphe sp.)

Lily 20

Harvest

Many authors have stated that crush stems, restricting the flow the water-conducting channels— flowers should be harvested at the of water into the stems and xylem—of the flower and cause peak of perfection. Although this shortening the vase life of the decay. advice seems straight forward, flowers. Knives, shears, and Floral preservatives also provide it is ambiguous considering the harvest containers should be food in the form of simple sugars, differences in flowers and con- routinely disinfected before each like sucrose. Providing the flower cepts of peak of perfection. For use. A mild chlorine bleach with food lengthens vase life and the consumer, the peak of perfec- solution (1:10) is adequate. Har- brightens the flower color. tion is when the flower is showing vested flowers should be placed in Floral preservatives can be made its best color and form, and lasts tepid water (110oF) with a floral from scratch, but beginners the longest. For the grower, the preservative added. When using a should use commercially prepared wholesale broker and the florist, preservative, put flowers in plastic products until they become it is the stage when the flower will containers. Preservative chemicals familiar with their crops’ handling hold up in the marketing chain may react with a metal container. requirements and water quality. the longest and meet the expecta- Floral preservatives have many tions of the consumer. components that lengthen the Table 2 lists the optimal stage vase life of flowers. First, they of development for harvesting a acidify the water. Flowers keep wide range of specialty cut flowers longer in acid water (pH 3.5). for the direct market. Flowers for Water tests should be conducted wholesale markets should be less to determine the pH of your water. developed to allow for handling Most water in Kansas is hard or and shipping time. alkaline (pH > 7.0), especially city For the longest vase life, flowers water. If your water is very hard, should be harvested in the morn- it may require additional acid. ing before the heat of the day. The Chemically softened water flowers are cooler and have more should not be used in any stage of water in them. Less energy will cut flower production or handling. be required to cool the flowers and The high level of sodium in wilting will be less of a problem. chemically softened water can Flowers should be removed from be toxic to flowers. If large-scale the field as soon as possible and production is being considered, placed in a cooler at 40oF or a cool installation of a water deionizer is place that is less than 60oF until recommended to ensure a reliable they can be sorted, graded, pack- source of high-quality water. aged, and shipped to market. Floral preservatives contain Special attention should be chemicals that stop or slow the placed on harvest equipment. growth of microorganisms. A Knives or shears should be sharp low pH also retards microorganism so all stems can be cut cleanly. growth. Microorganisms can plug Chives Dull cutting instruments can 21

Table 2. Optimal Development Stage of Cut Flowers for Direct Sale

Common name Species Stage of development

1 Acacia Acacia spp. ⁄2 florets open Yarrow Achillea filipendulina fully open flowers 1 True Monkshood, Officinal Aconite Aconitum napellus ⁄2 florets open 1 African Lily Agapanthus umbellatus ⁄4 florets open 1 1 Allium, Ornamental Onion Allium spp. ⁄3 – ⁄4 florets open Peruvian Lily Alstroemeria hybrids 4–5 florets open 1 Hollyhock Althea rosea ⁄3 florets open 1 Joseph’s Coat, Amaranth Amaranthus ⁄2 florets open Fountain Plant, Tampala Poppy Amemone Anemone coronaria buds beginning to open Anthurium Anthurium spp. spadix almost fully developed 1 Snapdragon Antirrhinum majus ⁄3 florets open 1 Columbine Aquilegia hybrids ⁄2 florets open 1 Astilbe Astilbe hybrids ⁄2 florets open English Daisy, True Daisy Bellis perennis fully open flowers Bouvardia Bouvardia hybrids flowers beginning to open Calendula, Pot Marigold Calendula officinalis fully open flowers China Aster, Annual Aster Callistephus chinensis fully open flowers Camellia Camellia japonica fully open flowers 1 Canterbery Bells Campanula spp. ⁄2 florets open Cattleya Orchid Cattleya spp. 3–4 days after opening 1 Cockscomb Celosia argentea ⁄2 florets open Bachelor’s Button, Cornflower Centaurea spp. flowers beginning to open 1 Wallflower Cheiranthus cheirii ⁄2 florets open Mums Chrysanthemum spp. fully open flowers Hardy chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum morifolium Standard cultivars outer petals fully elongated Spray cultivars Singles open but before anthesis Anemones open but before disk flowers start to elongate Pompons & decorative center of older flower fully open 1 Clarkia Clarkia elegans ⁄2 florets open 1 Kaffir, Lily, Clivia Clivia miniata ⁄4 florets open Larkspur, Annual Delphinium Consolida ambaigua 2–5 florets open 1 Lily-of-the-Valley Convallaria majalis ⁄2 florets open Coreopsis, Tickseed, Lance Coreopsis Coreopsis grandiflora fully open flowers Spiral flag Costus spp. almost fully open flowers 1 Montebretia Crocosmia crocosmiflora ⁄2 florets open Cyclamen Cyclamen persicum fully open flowers Cymbidium Orchid Cymbidium spp. 3–4 days after opening Dahlia Dahia variabilis fully open flowers 1 Delphinium Delphinium spp. ⁄2 florets open Dendrobium Orchid Dendrobium spp. almost fully open flowers 1 Sweet William Dianthus barbatus ⁄2 florets open Carnation Dianthus caryophyllus Standard cultivars half-open flowers Spray cultivars 2 fully open flowers 22

Common name Species Stage of development

1 Common Foxglove, Finger Flower, Digitalis purpurea ⁄2 florets open Purple Foxglove, Fairy Glove Leopard’s bane Doronicum causasicum almost open flowers Globe Thistle Echinops ritro half-open flowers 1 Desert-candle, King’s Spear Eremurus robustus ⁄2 florets open 1 Heather Erica spp. ⁄2 florets open Flea Bane Erigeron hybrids fully open flowers Sea Holly Eryngium spp. fully open flowers Amazon Lily, Star of Bethlehem Eucharis grandiflora almost open flowers Poinsettia Euphorbia pulcherrima fully extended bracts Lisianthus Eustoma ressellianum 5–6 open flowers Freesia Freesia hybrids first bud beginning to open Crown Imperial Fritillaria imperialis half-open flowers Perennial Gaillardia, Blanket Flower Gaillardia x grandiflora fully open flowers Annual Gaillardia, Blanket Flower, Gaillardia pulchella fully open flowers Indian Blanket Gardenia Gardenia jasminoides almost fully open flowers Transvaal Daisy, Gerbera, Gerbera jamesonii outer row of flowers showing pollen Baraberton Daisy, Veldt Daisy Glads Gladiolus cultivars 1–5 buds showing color Climbing Lily Gloriosa superba almost fully open flowers Perennial & Annual Baby’s Breath Gypsophila spp. flowers open but not overly mature Common Sunflower Helinathus annuus fully open flowers Sunflower Heliopsis, Hardy Zinnia, Heliopsis helianthoides fully open flowers Orange Sunflower, False Sunflower Christmas Rose, Winter Rose, Helleborus niger half-open flowers Black Hellebore Daylily Hemerocallis spp. half-open flowers Amaryllis Hippeastrum hybrids colored buds Bearded Iris Iris germanica colored buds Dutch Iris Iris hollandica colored buds Corn Lily, African Corn Lily Ixia spp. colored buds 1 Kalanchoe Kalanchoe hybrids ⁄2 florets open Torch-Lily, Common Poker Plant, Kniphofia uvaria almost all florets showing color Flame Flower 1 Sweet Pea Lathyrus odoratus ⁄2 florets open Edelweiss Leontopodium alpinum fully open flowers 1 Tall Gayfeather, Blazing Star, Liatris spicata ⁄2 florets open Button Snakeroot Tiger, Asiatic, Oriental lilies Lilium spp. colored buds Statice, Sea-Lavendar Limonium spp. almost fully open flowers 1 Lupine Lupinus mutabilis ⁄2 florets open 1 Common Stock Matthiola incana ⁄2 florets open Bee-Balm, Fragrant Balm, Oswego Tea Monarda didyma almost open flowers 1 Common Grape Hyacinth Muscari botryoides ⁄2 florets open 1 Garden Forget-me-Not, Myosotis sylvatica ⁄2 florets open Woodland Forget-me-Not Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil Narcissus spp. “Goose neck” stage 1 Catmint Nepeta faassenii ⁄2 florets open 23

Common name Species Stage of development

Nerine Nerine bowdenii oldest buds almost open Love-in-a-Mist, Devil-in-the-Bush, Nigella damascena open flowers Chincherinchees, Sea Onion Ornithogalum spp. colored buds Peony Paeonia spp. colored buds Poppy Papaver spp. colored buds Paphiopedilum Orchid Paphiopedilum spp. 3–4 days after opening Phalaenopsis Orchid Phalaenopsis spp. 3–4 days after opening 1 Summer Phlox, Garden Phlox, Phlox paniculata ⁄2 florets open Fall Phlox, Perennial Phlox Tuberose Polianthes tuberosa majority of florets open 1 Polyanthus Primrose Primula spp. ⁄2 florets open Ranunculus Ranunculus asiaticus buds beginning to open 1 Common Mignonette Reseda ordorata ⁄2 florets open Roses Rosa hybrids Red and pink cultivars first 2 petals beginning to unfold, calyx reflexed below a horizontal position Yellow cultivars slightly earlier than red and pink White cultivars slightly later than red and pink Black-eyed Susan, Yellow Oxeye Daisy, Rudbeckia spp. fully open flowers English Bulls-eye Pincushion Flower Scabiosa spp. half-open flowers Siberian Squill, Blue Squill Scilla siberica half-open flowers Showy Stonecrop Sedum, Live-forever Sedum spp. fully open flowers 1 Goldenrod Solidago spp. ⁄2 florets open Stephanotis, Wax Flowers Stephanotis floribunda fully open flowers Bird-of-Paradise Flower Strelitzia reginae first floret open African Marigold Tagetes erecta fully open flowers 1 Columbine Meadow Rue Thalictrum apguilegifolium ⁄2 florets open Globeflower Trollius spp. half-open flowers Nasturtium Tropaeolum majus fully open flowers Common Garden or Late Tulips Tulipa gesneriana half-colored buds 1 Speedwell Veronica spp. ⁄2 florets open Sweet Violet, English Violet, Viola odorata almost open flowers Garden Violet, Florists Violet Pansy, Ladies Delight Viola x wittrockiana almost open flowers Calla Lily Zantedeschia spp. just before the spathe begins to turn downward Zinnia Zinnia elegans fully open flowers 24

Postharvest

Herbs

After flowers are removed from by flowers, but can come from The stem tips of most spike the field and placed in the packing other sources including decaying type flowers will bend upward shed, the stems should be cut plant material, old flowers, ripen- if laid horizontally. This is known under water. Stems will accept ing fruit, gasoline and propane as negative geotropism. Spike type water as long as the xylem is not combustion and welding. Careful flowers should be stored and blocked. Air bubbles drawn up selection of a location for the shipped upright. into the xylem when the stem storage area away from motors Bruising and breaking flowers was cut in the field can block the and welding equipment is reduces their aesthetic value and upward movement of water. The important. Sanitation and good therefore their economic value. air bubble blockage may be inventory management should Wounds also allow entry of many eliminated by removing an inch eliminate decaying plant material disease organisms and increase of stem under water. and old flowers. Flowers should ethylene production by the flow- Fresh cut flowers are extremely not be stored in the same facility ers. Careful handling to prevent sensitive to temperature and as ripening fruits and vegetables. damage is imperative to ensure humidity. Because they have such Good air circulation in the storage a long-lived, high-quality flower. a high surface-area-to-volume area will help dilute any ethylene ratio, they can lose water and wilt which may be present. Pulsing quickly if not kept under low Some species are so sensitive Pulsing is a chemical treatment temperature and high humidity to ethylene that you need to do of flowers to prolong the vase life. conditions. The flower tissue has more to protect them (Table 3). The treatment is not continuous a high metabolic rate, so cooler Silver thiosulfate (STS) reduces the and typically lasts for 2–12 hours. temperatures are necessary to harmful effects of ethylene and Silver thiosulfate (STS), and slow metabolism. Most flowers is available from most suppliers 5–10 percent sucrose solutions should be stored at 32–35 oF and of commercial preservatives. Silver are chemicals often pulsed into 90–95 percent relative humidity if is a heavy metal that can pollute flowers. These solutions are put they are to be kept awhile. groundwater and soil. There are in the holding water and the Flowers are sensitive to ethylene systems available to recycle the flowers are held at various tem- gas. Ethylene is produced naturally STS and recover the silver. peratures for a certain time period. Different species and different 25 cultivars require different pulse Table 3. Flowers Particularly Sensitive to Ethylene treatments. Although pulse treatments have not been deter- Agapanthus umbellatus Freesia hybrids mined for many specialty cut Alstroemeria hybrid Solidago spp. flowers, there are too many Anemone spp. Kniphofia uvaria different treatments to cover Astilbe spp. Lilium spp. in this publication. Gypsophila spp. Aconitum napellus Marketing and Selling Bouvardia hybrids Phlox paniculata Flowers can be marketed to Campanula spp. Scabiosa spp. a flower wholesaler, a retail florist, Dianthus spp. Rosa Spp. or directly to the public at a Centaurea cyanus Antirrhinum majus farmers market or farm market. Delphinium spp. Matthiola incana Each market has advantages and Dendrobium spp. Lathyrus odoratus disadvantages. Direct to the public Eremerus robustus is the easiest market to enter. Sorting, handling, and packaging usually are minimal as is the capital investment. A wide variety of species and cultivars may be sold with success. The disadvantage is the volume of sales may limit the income. Wholesalers will accept large volumes of flowers. You will have to package, sort, and grade flowers to their specifications, and they may not accept some specialty flowers. They set the price for your flowers. It takes awhile for the grower and wholesaler to develop a good working relationship. Retail florists buy from wholesalers. If you market directly to the florist, you cut out the middleman and can get a higher wholesale price for your flowers. Florists may not be as concerned with packaging as wholesalers. Both florists and wholesalers will insist on high quality. Florists may be more interested in specialty flowers than wholesalers. You will have to deal with several florists to sell the same volume you would to a wholesaler. The market or markets you choose to enter must provide sufficient profit margins for you to stay in business.

Poppy 26

Summary

Lavender, Goldenrod, Thistle

Recommendations 1. Keep a journal. 2. Experiment with test plots, before expanding production. 3. Understand cut flowers are a high-value, intensively managed crop. 4. Understand that a high-quality product is essential for success. 5. Set prices to ensure profits. Price cutting without lowering costs can have a drastic effect on profitability.

References Dole, J.M. and M.A. Schnelle. Various issues of The Cut Flower Aker, S.M. and W.E. Healy. “The Care and Handling of Cut Quarterly, a publication of the 1988. “Producing Cut Flowers— Flowers.” Oklahoma State Univer- Association of Specialty Cut General Field Crop Management.” sity Cooperative Extension Ser- Flower Growers. University of Maryland Coopera- vice. OSU Extension Facts No. Ball Seed Co. production notes tive Extension Service. Enterprise 6426. for cut flower growers. Guide of Southern Maryland Fact Koch, Mark and Sally Nakasawa. Sheet 468. 1991. “Top 30 Flowers For Dry- ing.” Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. The Cut Flower Quarterly, Vol. 3, No. 3. 27

Suppliers

Suppliers in this publication Northrup King Seed Co. McHutchinson Co. are listed for identification. No Maryland Plants and Supplies Vaughn Fletcher endorsement is intended, nor is 9586 Deereco Rd. 418 Kingsley criticism of similar suppliers not Timonium, MD 21093 Liberty, MO 64068 mentioned. 816-781-1818 Park Seed—Wholesale Cut Flower Seed HG6 Cokesbury Rd. Yoder Brothers Greenwood, SC 29647–0001 Fritz Thomas Ball Seed Co. 1234 East Dunklin St. Penn Seed Co. 250 Town Road Jefferson City, MO 65101–4116 Rt. 309, Box 390 West Chicago, IL 60185 800-347-7651 Dallas, PA 18612 W. Atlee Burpee Co. Stuifbergen Bulb Export Co. Vaughan Seed Co. 50375 Park Ave. Pete Stuifbergen 5300 Katrine Ave. Warminster, PA 18974 1645 SE. Decker Downers Grove, IL 60532 The Country Garden Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 Rt. 2 Harris Moran Seed Co. 816-524-0840 3670 Buffalo Rd. Crivitz, WI 54114 Express Seed Co. Rochester, NY 14624 Express Seed Co. Paul Orrick 201 West Main St. Stokes Seeds, Inc. 300 Artino St. Smethport, PA 16749 Box 548 Oberlin, OH 44074–1263 Buffalo, NY 14240 H.G. German Seeds Sunbay Farms Box 398 Leen de Mos Watsonville, CA Smethport, PA 16749 P.O. Box 54–2690 AB’s Charles Barr Jr. Gravenzade 408-724-7577 Germania Seed Co. The Netherlands FAX 408-724-5829 5952 North Milwaukee Chicago, IL 60646 Plugs, Transplants, Headstart Cut Flower Plugs 408-842-3030 Gloeckner and Bulbs FAX 408-842-3224 15 East 26th St. Vandenberg Bulb Company New York, NY 10010 Ball Seed Co. P.O. Box 532 Adrian Holmes Johnny’s Select Seeds Chester, NY 10918 Rt. 2, Box 79 Albion, ME 914-469-9161 Pomona, KS 66076 FAX 914-469-2015 L. Daehnfeldt 785-566-3511 P.O. Box 15 DK-5100 Bradbury Farms Vaughan Seed Co. Odense C., Denmark 19738 West Bradbury Rd. Joe Rawley Turlock, CA 95380 Box 3473 209-668-7584 Lawrence, KS. 66046 FAX 209-668-7928 785-843-8080 28

Bluebird Nursery, Inc. Floralife, Inc. Praxis P.O. Box 460 120 Tower Dr. Allegan, MI Clarkson, NE 68629 Burr Ridge, IL 60521 616-673-2793 800-356-9164 708-325-8587 Brinkman Horticultural FAX 402-892-3713 FAX 708-325-4924 Stoney Creek, Ontario, Preservatives and Dyes Forestry Suppliers Inc. Canada P.O. Box 8397 416-643-6630 Robert Koch Industries, Inc. Jackson, MS 39284–8397 Better Yield Insects Rt. 1, Box 4HH US 1-800-650-0776 Windsor, Ontario, Bennett, CO 80102 FAX 1-800-543-4203 303-644-3763 Canada FAX 303-644-3045 Precision Blend Inc. (PBI) 519-727-6108 705 North Shore Dr. Mycogen Corp. Gard/Rogard, Inc. Mound, MN 55364 San Diego, CA Garden Environmental Group 612-472-5443 903 Armstrong St. 619-453-8030 Algonquin, IL 60102 Synthetic, Organic, Whitmire Laboratories 1-800-433-4273 and Biological Controls St. Louis, MO 1-800-325-3668 Floralife Inc. FMC Corp 120 Tower Dr. 1563 East County Line Rd. JRM Chemical Inc. Burr Ridge, IL 60521 #402 13600 Broadway Ave. 708-325-8587 800-468-0441 Cleveland, OH 44125 Fax 708-325-4924 FAX 601-956-9510 800-962-4010 FAX 216-475-6517 Pokon & Chrysal USA Kentucky Garden Supply 7977 NW. 21st St. 731 Red Mile Rd. Research Organics Inc. Miami, FL 33122 Lexington, KY 40504 4353 East 49th 1-800-247-9725 800-432-9510 Cleveland, OH 44125 Fax: 305-477-1284 800-321-0570 ARBICO Inc. 216-883-1576 SEGO International, Inc. P.O. Box 4247 CRB 503-796-0133 Tucson, AZ 85738 BioLogic Company FAX 503-222-417 800-767-2847 P.O. Box 177–BG Vita Flora Inc. Fax: 602-825-2038 Willow Hill, PA 17271 717-349-2789 P.O. Box 1690 Bunting Biological Lakesville, AZ 85929 P.O. Box 2430 IPM Laboratories, Inc. 602-368-6800 Oxnard, CA 93034 Main St. The John Henry Co. 805-986-8265 Locke, NY 13092–0099 P.O. Box 17099 Fax: 805-986-8267 315-497-3129 Lansing, MI 48901 Phero Tech, Inc. Organic Control Inc./ORCON 517-323-9000 7572 Progress Way 5132 Venice Blvd. FAX 517-323-4707 Rt. 5 Los Angeles, CA 90019 Smithers-Oasis Co. Delta, British Columbia, 213-937-7444 P.O. Box 118 CanadaV4G 1E9 FAX 213-937-0123 Kent, OH 44240 604-940-9944 Hydro-Gardens, Inc. 216-673-5831 FAX 604-940-9433 Colorado Springs, CO 719-495-2266 Cleaning Supplies American Insectaries Escondido, CA Gerhart Inc. Dillon Floral Corp. 619-432-0485 North Ridgeville, OH P.O. Box 180 Abbott Laboratories 216-327-8056 Bloomsburg, PA 17815 North Chicago, IL 717-784-5770 Necessary Trading Co. 1-800-323-9597 New Castle, VA 703-864-5103 29

Biotactics Epic Products Inc. Speedling Manufacturing Riverside, CA 17395 Mt. Hermmann Box 283 714-685-7681 Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Sun City, FL 33586 714-641-8194 Applied Bionomics Holland Transplanter Co. FAX 714-641-8217 Sidney, British Columbia, 510 East 16th St. Canada Moore Paper Boxes, Inc. Holland, MI 49423 604-656-2123 2916 Boulder Ave. Powell Manufacturing Co. Dayton, OH 45414 Richters P.O. Drawer 707 Goodwood, Ontario, Boas Box Co. Bennetsville, SC 29512 Canada 5610 Lancaster Ave. 416-640-6677 Philadelphia, PA 19131 Irrigation Equipment 215-477-7700 Koppert B.V. American Plant Products FAX 215-477-1240 The Netherlands 9200 NW. 10th 31-189140444 Oklahoma City, OK 73127 Seeding and Planting 1-800-654-4583 Brinkman B.V. Equipment Smith Irrigation The Netherlands Box 232, North Main St. 31-174811333 Cole Manufacturing Co. Box 9216 Kensington, KS 66951 Soluble Organic Charlotte, NC 28299 Good Earth Gardens Fertilizers (Planet Jr. Seed Drill) Jerry Edson Rt. 1, Box 139 Seagro Corporation Earthway Products Clearwater, KS 67026 3601 10th SE. P.O. Box 547 316-773-1494 East Wenatchee, WA 98801 Briston, IN 46507 509-884-1600 (garden planters) Kansas City Cut Flower Farms (fish-based) Ethan Kayes Tillage and Bedding 4223 Gibbs Road California Spray Dry Co. Equipment Kansas City, KS 66106 P.O. Box 5035 913-432-1330 Stockton, CA 95205 Ahrens Nursery 209-948-0209 Rt. 1 Chesmore Seed Co. (spray-dried blood) Huntington, IN 47542 1302 South 4th 812-683-3055 St. Joseph, MO 64501 ENP Inc. 816-279-0865 P.O. Box 218 Kennco Mfg. Inc. Mendota, IL 61342 Box 1158 General Materials 800-255-4906 Ruskin, FL 33570 (fish-based) 813-645-2591 Century Florists Supply Co. Main Office: P.O. Box 325 Guy Farm Equip. Co. American Meat Protein Detroit, MI 48232–2562 15219 Hwy. 14 2515 Elwood Drive 313-872-0300 Woodstock, IL 60098 Ames, IA 50010 FAX 313-872-7907 815-338-0600 515-292-1021 Midwest Office: P.O. Box 411807 (spray-dried blood) Lely Corporation Kansas City, MO 64141–1807 Box 1060 816-474-3610, FAX 816-471-2733 Containers, Harvest, Wilson, NC 27893 Craftware Pottery 919-261-7050 Holding, Packing Mary Beavers Lomey Mfg. Corp/Spotless Group Transplanting Equipment 233 North 19 P.O. Box 5314 Lincoln, NE 68503 Asheville, NC 28813 Ellis Manufacturing Co. 402-474-1622 1-800-423-2314 Box 246 Clifford Sales & Marketing FAX 704-626-9210 Verona, WI 53593 Nick Clifford Mechanical Transplanter 44 Granada Way Box 1008B St. Louis, MO 63124 Holland, MI 49423 314-432-5806 30

McHutchison Co. TENAX Corporation Vaughan Seed CO. Vaughn N. Fletcher 8291 Patuxent Range Joe J. Rawley 418 Kingsley Jessup, MD 20794 Box 3473 Liberty, MO 64068 800-356-8495 Lawrence, KS 66046 816-781-1818 Fax: 301-725-5910 785-843-8080 American Plant Products Premier Brands Inc. Wheeler Arts Rod Lewis Tobin Standard Dept. CFQ 9200 NW. 10th St. Dan O’Meara 66 Lake Park Oklahoma City, OK 73127–9722 931 West 8 St. Champaign, IL 61821–7101 405-787-4833 Kansas City, MO 64101 217-359-6816 816-842-3838 FAX 317-359-8716 Swecker–Knipp Inc. Dennis Whitegon Ball Seed Co. Stuppy Greenhouses 900 NW. Jackson P.O. Box 335 Bruce Holden Topeka, KS 66608 West Chicago, IL P.O. Box 12456 785-234-5652 800-323-BALL 1212 Clay St. FAX 800-234-0370 North Kansas City, MO 64116 Gard’N-Wise Distributors 800-877-8025 1515 East 29th St. North A.H. Hummert Seed Wichita, KS 67219 Sheryl Shaefer Nexus Greenhouse 316-838-1474 2746 Chouteau Ave. 10983 Leroy St. Louis, MO 63103 Northglenn, CO 80233 Temkin Int., Inc. 314-771-0646 303-457-9199 21007 Superior St. Chatsworth, CA 91211 818-709-1066 (sleeves) 31