FRANKFORT, Ky. — Patients and staff at Albert B. Chandler Hospital in Lexington were greeted with a burst of color on Monday as Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell distributed 400 zinnias, generously donated by River Bend Blooms from Allen County. This gesture commemorated July as Kentucky Grown Cut Flowers Month, celebrating the vibrant local flower industry.
Commissioner Shell emphasized the significance of locally grown flowers, stating, “Flowers can brighten up your day, especially those grown in Kentucky. They add to the beauty of our great state, whether in homes, businesses, or at summer weddings, showcasing what Kentucky’s farmer-florists offer to consumers. Bringing a little sunshine to special people today truly underscores the power of flowers.”
Despite the fact that approximately 80 percent of cut flowers in the U.S. are imported, Kentucky’s climate and soil are highly conducive to producing top-quality flowers. The state hosts over 220 commercial cut flower operations, with the number of farmer-florists steadily increasing annually.
Michelle Wheeler, co-owner of River Bend Blooms along with her husband David, shared their journey as florist farmers. With agricultural backgrounds and experience in sales, Michelle expressed her passion for cultivating flowers that enrich customers’ lives and celebrations. Currently in their fifth season, River Bend Blooms is gearing up to harvest over two acres of dahlias this fall.
Wheeler reflected on the profound impact of flowers, stating, “Flowers speak when words are inadequate. Growing flowers allows us to share beauty and joy with our community, marking life’s milestones and brightening homes with unique bouquets.”
In further celebration of Kentucky Grown Cut Flowers Month, the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and the Kentucky Horticulture Council are hosting a month-long promotional event for the fifth consecutive year. Throughout July, local cut flower farms will be featured daily on social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. These promotions aim to guide customers to locally grown flowers available at farms, farmers markets, pop-up shops, and through community-supported agriculture subscriptions.
To assist customers in locating Kentucky flower operations, the UK Center for Crop Diversification has launched an interactive online map, continuously updated with new farm listings. This resource can be accessed at UK Center for Crop Diversification.
For more information on Kentucky Grown Cut Flower Month events and updates, visit Facebook (@KYHortCouncil), Instagram (@KYHorticulture), or Twitter (@KYHorticulture).
