Episodes
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Get the Free Guide: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/free-downloads-resources-1
In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler-Mergen discusses the essential practices for labeling and storing dahlias in the fall. She emphasizes the importance of proper labeling to ensure the identification of different varieties, especially before the frost hits. Liz shares her techniques for storing dahlias, including the best materials to use and the ideal conditions for storage. She also highlights the significance of selecting the right dahlia varieties for both personal enjoyment and business needs, providing insights into her own experiences and plans for the upcoming season.
Takeaways
Labeling dahlias is crucial before the frost hits.Use oil-based paint markers for durable labeling.Store dahlias at 45 to 55 degrees for best results.Dahlias can be stored without dividing them.Organize your dahlias by keeping a list of which to keep or sell.Timing is key for labeling and storing dahlias.Consider the market demand when choosing dahlia varieties.A good storage method involves keeping dirt on the tubers.Plan for future seasons by evaluating your current dahlias.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Summary
In this episode, Liz and Abbey discuss the book 'I Know How She Does It' by Laura Vanderkam. They share their thoughts on the book and how it applies to their own lives. They discuss the concept of managing time and finding balance between work, family, and personal life. They also talk about the importance of being aware of when you are working past the point of diminishing returns and the value of quality time with family. Overall, the episode emphasizes the importance of flexibility and finding what works best for each individual's unique situation.
Takeaways
Managing time and finding balance is essential for success in all areas of life.Being aware of when you are working past the point of diminishing returns can help increase productivity.Quality time with family is important and should be prioritized.Flexibility in scheduling and finding what works best for you is key to achieving a balanced life.The "Back to Better" Book Club podcast is your free, bi-monthly journey toward personal growth and transformation. Each month, tune in for two episodes—one where the host dives into key insights and takeaways from the selected book, and another featuring an in-depth discussion with a guest who brings fresh perspectives to the conversation. Whether you're looking to improve your mindset, habits, or life in general, this podcast is your companion on the path to better.
To Join the Book Club:
https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/back-to-better-book-club-membership-landing-page-1
Connect:
https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lizfiedlermergen/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/419082867827460
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the benefits of growing jewels of opar, a flower that adds texture and movement to bouquets. Liz shares her personal experience with growing jewels of opar and highlights its versatility in different floral arrangements. She also provides practical tips on harvesting and using the flowers. The episode concludes with a reminder to pause and reflect before making any big decisions in the flower farming business.
Takeaways
Jewels of opar is a flower that adds texture and movement to bouquets and floral arrangements.It is a versatile flower that can be used in weddings, events, and wearable flowers.The flowers start blooming in mid-August and continue to produce throughout the season.Harvesting the flowers requires waiting until the petals fall off and the berries become woody and rigid.Before making any big decisions in the flower farming business, it is important to pause, reflect, and gather information.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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The "Back to Better" Book Club podcast is your free, bi-monthly journey toward personal growth and transformation. Each month, tune in for two episodes—one where the host dives into key insights and takeaways from the selected book, and another featuring an in-depth discussion with a guest who brings fresh perspectives to the conversation. Whether you're looking to improve your mindset, habits, or life in general, this podcast is your companion on the path to better.
To Join the Book Club:
https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/back-to-better-book-club-membership-landing-page-1
Connect:
https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lizfiedlermergen/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/419082867827460
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Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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In this episode, Liz discusses the pros and cons of growing lisianthus, a beautiful but somewhat tricky flower. She shares her experiences and tips for successfully growing lisianthus, including the importance of buying plugs instead of starting from seed, the need for well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, and the different bloom times of different lisianthus groups. Liz also emphasizes the profitability of selling lisianthus by the stem or using them in premium arrangements, rather than including them in lower-priced bouquets. Overall, lisianthus can be a valuable addition to a flower farm if grown and marketed correctly.
Takeaways
Consider buying plugs instead of starting lisianthus from seed for better success.lisianthus requires well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight, but does not like to have wet feet.Different lisianthus groups have different bloom times, so plan accordingly for succession planting.Selling lisianthus by the stem or using them in premium arrangements can be more profitable than including them in lower-priced bouquets.lisianthus has a long vase life and can be stored in a cooler for up to two weeks.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Learn about Foundations of Peddling Perishable Products: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP
Katie and Audra from Ranchy Stems discuss their experience taking Liz's course on Peddling Perishable Products. They talk about their backgrounds, their journey in investing in themselves, and the changes they made to their flower farming business as a result of the course. They emphasize the importance of efficiency, streamlining processes, and building a business around their life. They also highlight the value of the course in providing guidance, shortcuts, and a community of support. Overall, they express gratitude for the course and the opportunity to learn and grow their business.
Takeaways
Efficiency and streamlining processes are key to running a successful flower farming business.Building a business around your life, rather than the other way around, is important for sustainability and work-life balance.Investing in education and guidance, such as taking a course, can provide valuable shortcuts and help avoid costly mistakes.Being part of a supportive community of like-minded individuals can provide inspiration, motivation, and opportunities for collaboration.Constant learning and adaptation are essential for growth and success in the flower farming industry.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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In this episode, Liz discusses the topic of growing snapdragons for cut flower farming. She covers various aspects such as market demand, pricing, starting needs, space requirements, harvest needs, and sales methods. Snapdragons are considered a versatile and popular flower that can be grown in most zones. They have a long vase life and can be harvested when two-thirds open. The host also mentions the importance of choosing the right variety and provides tips for purchasing plugs or starting from seeds.
Takeaways
Snapdragons are a versatile and popular flower that can be grown in most zones.They have a long vase life and can be harvested when two-thirds open.Consider market demand and pricing when deciding to grow snapdragons.Snapdragons can be started from plugs or seeds, with plugs being a convenient option.Support netting may be needed for outdoor planting, and they can be stored in the cooler for up to 10 days.Choose the right variety for your specific needs and sales methods.Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Look for the bonus PPP episodes on running a cut flower farm and growing your business. The PPP stands for “peddling perishable products”, which is the signature course for her coaching business, www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Farm website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com
Farm instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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The Flower Farmer Forum podcast has been rebranded from Sunny Mary Meadow to better represent its goal of creating a vibrant community for flower farmers. The podcast has reached over 100,000 downloads and will continue to release regular episodes on profitably growing flowers and sustainable agriculture. Season two will feature episodes on different flowers, interviews with flower farmers, and a book club focused on self-help. The podcast also offers workshops, courses, and coaching for flower farmers.
Takeaways
The Flower Farmer Forum podcast has been rebranded to better reflect its goal of creating a community for flower farmers.The podcast has reached over 100,000 downloads and continues to release regular episodes on profitably growing flowers and sustainable agriculture.Season two will feature episodes on different flowers, interviews with flower farmers, and a book club focused on self-help.The podcast also offers workshops, courses, and coaching for flower farmers.Look for the bonus PPP episodes on running a cut flower farm and growing your business. The PPP stands for “peddling perishable products”, which is the signature course for her coaching business, www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Farm website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com
Farm instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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In this episode, Liz announces her name change and the rebranding of her podcast from Sunny Mary Meadow Podcast to Flower Farmer Forum. She discusses her initial hesitation to change the name and her desire to focus on both flower farming and the business side of her farm. Liz shares her love for flower farming and the reasons why every day feels like a Friday for her. She talks about the importance of hiring help, setting goals, and creating systems to make the business more efficient and enjoyable. Liz also reveals her plans for expanding her farm and building a sustainable business for future generations.
Takeaways
Changing the name of a podcast or business can be a strategic decision to better align with the focus and goals of the brand.Finding joy and fulfillment in a business requires intentional planning, hiring help, and creating systems to streamline operations.Setting clear goals and having predictable revenue streams can reduce stress and create a sense of calmness in the business.Building a sustainable business involves transitioning from being an operator to being an owner, delegating tasks, and focusing on long-term growth and scalability.Business ownership allows for flexibility and the ability to pursue other interests and passions while still running a successful enterprise.Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Look for the bonus PPP episodes on running a cut flower farm and growing your business. The PPP stands for “peddling perishable products”, which is the signature course for her coaching business, www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Farm website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com
Farm instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Free Webinar signup: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-98506269-a075-4c81-99f8-48df49979579
In this episode, Liz discusses the process of harvesting flowers on her farm and shares tips for maximizing efficiency. She emphasizes the importance of planning and growing the right crops in the right quantities. Liz also talks about the benefits of batch work and having a central location for tools and materials. She provides insights into her bouquet-making process and highlights the significance of intentional flower selection for events.
Takeaways
Plan and grow the right crops in the right quantities to reduce waste and maximize efficiency. Utilize batch work to streamline the harvesting and bouquet-making process. Have a central location for tools and materials to improve organization and save time. Select flowers intentionally for events to ensure they are fully open and at their prime.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Crop Planning Journal: https://amzn.to/3xubPZh
Crop Planning Course: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout
Dewitt Fabric: https://www.dewittcompany.com/products/landscape-fabric/
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Free Webinar signup: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-98506269-a075-4c81-99f8-48df49979579
In this episode, Liz discusses planting and efficiency in flower farming. She emphasizes the importance of planning and getting specific about what and how much to grow based on what can be sold. The episode also features a discussion about Tilmor a company that offers tools and equipment for small growers. The host shares her experience with the Dibbler tool and the benefits of using pre-cut fabric for weed control. She also explores the advantages of buying plugs instead of starting from seeds and suggests enlisting the help of the community to make planting more efficient.
Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Crop Planning Journal: https://amzn.to/3xubPZh
Crop Planning Course: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout
Dewitt Fabric: https://www.dewittcompany.com/products/landscape-fabric/
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Free Webinar signup: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration-page-98506269-a075-4c81-99f8-48df49979579
In this episode, host Liz kicks off the Productivity and Efficiency Tips for Flower Farming Mini Series. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on expenses and time management to increase profitability. The episode is part of a mini-series divided into three parts: planning, planting, and harvesting. Liz provides insights on crop planning, inventory management, and task management. She also shares her experiences with tools and resources that have helped streamline her flower farming process. The upcoming episodes will cover planting with precision and the importance of event work and subscriptions.
Takeaways
Focus on expenses and time management to increase profitability in flower farming.Crop planning is crucial for predicting sales and optimizing flower production.Take inventory of seeds, tools, and resources to avoid wastage and panic buying.Invest in tools and resources that streamline the flower farming process, such as a dibbler and a journal for crop planning.Analyze and optimize planting and harvesting techniques to maximize productivity.Consider the different needs and expectations of event work and subscription customers.Helpful Links:
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Crop Planning Journal: https://amzn.to/3xubPZh
Crop Planning Course: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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Blog version of the podcast: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/blog/creating-a-beautiful-wildflower-patch-my-journey-and-tips-for-success
In this episode, Liz discusses her wildflower patch and the process of planting and maintaining it. She shares her personal experience and tips for preparing the soil, choosing the right seeds, and dealing with weeds. Liz also mentions the importance of regular maintenance and the transition from annuals to perennials in the patch.
Takeaways
Preparing the soil and removing weeds and debris is crucial before planting a wildflower patch.Choosing the right seeds for your climate and soil type is important for successful growth.Regular watering in the initial weeks is crucial for seed germination.Maintaining the patch and controlling weeds is necessary to prevent them from taking over.The patch will evolve over time, with annuals going to seed and perennials becoming more dominant.Consider seeking support and grants from programs like the CSP for larger-scale wildflower projects.Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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The Flower Farmer Forum Friday Featured Flower Farmer is a series of interviews with flower farmers who are doing things differently.
Nicole from Olson Blooms shares her journey of starting a flower farming business in Holly, Minnesota. She talks about the inspiration behind her farm name and the significance of her family's history in the area. Nicole discusses her transition from teaching to farming and the challenges she faced along the way. She explains her current offerings, including bouquet subscriptions, DIY bloom buckets, and flower arranging workshops. Nicole also shares her goals for the future, including adding more perennials and shrubs to her farm.
Takeaways
Starting a flower farming business can provide a sense of control and fulfillment for individuals looking for something of their own.It's important to find a balance between personal goals and family needs when running a flower farm.The business side of flower farming can be just as important, if not more, than the growing aspect.Growing a variety of flowers allows for seasonal changes and customer satisfaction.Having an open mind and being adaptable to change is crucial for long-term success in the flower farming industry.Olson Blooms: https://www.olsonblooms.com/
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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In this conversation, Liz and Kelly Cane of Moxie Creative discuss the importance of branding, website creation, and the pitfalls of DIY marketing. They emphasize the need for professional expertise in logo design and branding, as well as the significance of a well-maintained and updated website. The conversation also touches on the challenges and misconceptions faced by small business owners in the realm of marketing and branding.
Takeaways
The importance of professional expertise in logo design and brandingThe significance of a well-maintained and updated websiteChallenges and misconceptions faced by small business owners in marketing and brandingQuickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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The Flower Farmer Forum Friday Featured Flower Farmer is a series of interviews with flower farmers who are doing things differently. The first episode features Katie and Audra from Ranchy Stems in South Dakota. They discuss their journey into flower farming, their initial struggles with selling at farmers markets, and their shift towards agritourism. Their why for starting a flower farm includes the desire for freedom and financial stability, as well as a love for flowers. They also emphasize the importance of finding a niche and adjusting their business model based on market demand. Audra and Katie discuss their love for flowers and their journey in starting Ranchy Stems, a flower farm in rural South Dakota. They talk about the challenges they faced, the importance of communication and record-keeping, and the value of learning from failures. Audra and Katie also share their plans for the future, including subscriptions, nursing home sponsorships, and on-farm events. They emphasize the need to have a sense of purpose and to be confident in one's abilities.
Follow Ranchy Stems: https://www.instagram.com/ranchystems/
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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In this episode, Liz discusses her experience growing ranunculus in zone 4B. She shares her methods for pre-sprouting the corms, planting them in the high tunnel, and overwintering them. Liz also talks about the importance of using high tunnels in colder climates and the challenges she faced with saving and replanting the corms. She concludes by mentioning her plans for the upcoming year and the changes she will make to her subscription offerings.
Takeaways
Ranunculus can be successfully grown in zone 4B with the use of a high tunnel.Pre-sprouting the corms and planting them in trays or directly in the ground can yield good results.Overwintering ranunculus is possible but requires careful storage and selection of healthy corms.Soil health is important for successful ranunculus cultivation, and cover crops can help improve it.Consider the timing of ranunculus blooms when planning subscriptions or sales.Selling ranunculus at a premium price is justified due to the high demand and cost of wholesale corms.Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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$25 off code: https://storeitcold.referralrock.com/l/6R543BWF/
In this episode of the Sunny Mary Meadow podcast, Liz Fiedler discusses flower coolers and cooling solutions for small businesses with Julia DeGennaro from CoolBot. They cover topics such as the use of floral coolers, the importance of coolers for flower storage, retrofitting coolers, and the basics of building a cooler. Julia also explains the Coolbot and its capabilities, as well as the different types of coolers and their setup considerations. The conversation covers the importance of cool storage for flowers, the options for building or buying a cooler, and the considerations for mobile coolers. It also delves into the impact of temperature on flower storage and the referral program for Coolbot.
Takeaways
The use of floral coolers is instrumental in the efficient storage and preservation of flowers for small businesses.Retrofitting coolers with the Coolbot controller can be a cost-effective solution for businesses facing compressor issues.Understanding the basics of building a cooler, including setup considerations and humidity levels, is essential for businesses looking to create their own cooling solutions. The importance of cool storage for flowers, especially for flower farmers and florists.Considerations for building or buying a floral cooler, including the options for mobile coolers.The impact of temperature on flower storage and the referral program for Coolbot.CoolBot: https://www.storeitcold.com/
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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More information on Farmer Florist Boot Camp and the link to sign up: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/joinus-32544a52-8c39-4821-b321-b3548312c38e
Check out Jeni: https://www.thefloralhustle.com/
Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4
Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/
Sunny Mary Meadow flower farm (www.sunnymarymeadow.com) specializes in bouquet subscriptions, stem bars, and a you-pick flower farm experience.
Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852
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