As South Dakota experiences its first frosty temperatures of the season, Fleurish Flower Farm is concluding its flower-growing season for the year. However, the work on the farm continues as the crew diligently tills new flower beds, removes dead flowers, and plants fall perennials in preparation for the next year’s bloom. Among the plantings are delightful varieties such as echinacea, rudbeckia, and black-eyed Susan.
Planting fall perennials serves a dual purpose. It not only enriches the flower selection during the summer but also spreads the workload evenly throughout the year. Christy Heckathorn, the owner of Fleurish Flower Farm, appreciates the benefits of planting perennials that automatically resurface, reducing the labor intensity of the spring season.
The arrival of the first frost was anticipated and aligned with the previous year’s timing. “We feel like it was a good run, like it was a nice season and it ended about when we were ready for it to end,” Heckathorn commented.
This year marked a significant increase in the number of visitors to the farm’s U-Pick events, with hundreds of customers attending each week. The farm’s unique appeal and diverse offerings attracted a broader audience, doubling or even more, the attendance compared to previous years. The success of the season has inspired plans for expansion, including specialized events and agritourism opportunities.
Heckathorn envisions hosting more specialized events and welcoming diverse groups of people, possibly offering farm tours to tour bus companies. The farm’s future looks promising, with a focus on enhancing the unique experiences it offers to visitors.
As the flowers retreat for the winter, Heckathorn reflects on the season’s success, finding fulfillment in the happiness and enjoyment of visitors who spent quality time with their loved ones in the picturesque setting of Fleurish Flower Farm.
