Life Among the Willows: The 3 Biggest Lessons I Learned in My First Year of Flower Farming

Starting a flower farm has been an adventure filled with challenges, surprises, and countless moments of beauty. As I look back on my first year as a flower farmer, I’ve realized how much I’ve learned—not just about growing flowers, but about myself and the community I’ve found along the way. Here are the three biggest lessons I’ve learned during this transformative year.

1. Find Your Own Style—In Growing and Arranging

One of the first things I discovered is that flower farming isn’t about following someone else’s blueprint. It’s about finding what works for you. While it’s easy to scroll through social media and feel inspired by other flower growers, it’s important to remember that your farm or garden is unique.

I spent a lot of time deciding which flowers to grow, but because of space, I couldn't try everything. For me, some choices that I made, didn’t feel right and will no longer have a spot in my garden. They are still very beautiful, but didn't grow well enough, or I didn't use enough, so I can't justify the valuable garden space! What grows well for someone else doesn’t mean I have to grow it, too. Instead, going forward, I'll focus on flowers that bring me joy and fit my vision for Wild Willow Acres.

Arranging flowers also became a playground for creativity. I gave myself the freedom to experiment with different styles and techniques, which helped me develop my own signature look. Flower farming is an art, and the best part is that there’s no wrong way to create. Give yourself space to play, and you’ll uncover a style that’s uniquely yours.

2. Take a Moment to Enjoy the Process

In the hustle of planting, harvesting, arranging, and selling, it’s easy to forget to pause and enjoy the moment. I’ve learned how important it is to take a breath, soak in the beauty around me, and appreciate the journey.

Some of my favorite moments this year were spent talking with customers at markets and seeing their faces light up when they found the perfect bouquet. Other times, I found joy simply being in the garden, surrounded by the flowers I nurtured from seed to bloom.

Whenever I could, I took photos to capture those fleeting moments—a quiet morning in the garden, a favorite bouquet coming together, or the sunset over my flower field. These small acts of mindfulness reminded me why I started this journey in the first place: to share the magic of flowers and create beauty, one bloom at a time.

3. The Flower Farming Community Is Truly Special

Before starting my flower farm, I felt a bit intimidated by the number of experienced growers already out there. I wondered if there was space for me in such a vibrant industry. What I found was a community unlike anything I had imagined.

The support among flower farmers is incredible. Whether it’s answering questions, sharing advice, or cheering each other on, this community is all about lifting each other up. I’ve made friends with fellow growers who genuinely want to see each other succeed, and I can’t wait to be part of future markets with these amazing people.

If you’re thinking about starting your own flower farm, know this: there is room for everyone. The kindness and generosity within this community have been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

Final Thoughts

My first year of flower farming has been more than I could have imagined. It’s been a year of growth, learning, and connection—not just with flowers, but with people who share a love for what I do.

If there’s one takeaway from these lessons, it’s this: flower farming is about more than growing flowers. It’s about expressing your creativity, cherishing the moments, and finding a community that uplifts and inspires you. As I look ahead to next year, I’m excited to keep growing—both flowers and friendships—and to continue sharing the beauty of Wild Willow Acres with all of you.

Stay tuned for more updates, lessons, and stories from the farm. If you’re curious about what’s next, don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter or visit (http://www.wildwillowacres.ca) for all the latest news.

Until the willows sway again,

Kaeley