Things are in full swing down at Eleven Acres Family Farm; that’s right, if you didn’t know, we have finally picked a name for the farm!! As many of you know, last year, when we decided to start a flower farm, we really had no idea what we were doing, I mean, I wouldn’t say we’re experts, but we have learned a lot through trial and error. We really ramped things up this year, ordered thousands of seeds in advance, updated our little flower shed, and even hired a very special someone to help us full time with the flowers, my Auntie Mary!!
Today, I thought it would be so fun to ask her a few questions about the flower farm and her experience so far, along with a little bit more about her for those of you who don’t know her!
1. How did you get into flower farming?
Well, it’s all about who you know 😉 All joking aside, I’m from New Zealand and grew up on a farm! My mom and dad always grew flowers, not to Jill and Justin’s level, but it gave me a really good foundation on all of the ins and outs of caring for flowers. There’s no denying that Jill and Justin’s flower farm is a much bigger operation, but it’s just an extension of what I learned growing up; it’s all relative! Now don’t be fooled; there is still a lot of learning that is happening behind the scenes; running a flower farm with thousands of flowers is no walk in the park.
2. What is your favourite part about flower farming so far?
I absolutely love being outdoors, and I have to say that is one of my favourite parts of flower farming! Even when it’s cloudy, raining, or the sun is shining, I love being outside, no matter the weather. I think I love being outside so much because I’ve worked in the hospital for years as a Pharmacy Technician, and I’m so enjoying the change of pace, getting outside every day, and just being around nature.
3. What did you do in the hospital?
As I briefly mentioned above, I was previously a pharmacy technician at the hospital! Day to day, you could find me mixing IV drugs, dispensing and delivering medications around the hospital. I will be back there in the fall when flower farming is over, but I am really enjoying this change of pace for now.
4. What is your favourite memory at the farm?
On Jill and Justin’s property, there is a big eagle nest settled right over the flower farm. One of my favourite things is watching them fly over the farm and bring back food for their babies. Eagles are such beautiful and majestic creators, and I’m just in awe every time I get to watch them fly in and out of the nest.
5. What is your favourite flower?
Back in the early Spring, I started growing Snapdragons and Carnations from little seeds in my house, and now I’m transplanting them into the field, and I really can’t wait to watch them bloom. These specific flowers hold a special place in my heart because I have been watching them progress over the last few months, but my favourite flower has to be a Zinnia.
6. How can people purchase flowers from the farm?
You can find all of the in-stock flowers online at www.elevenacres.ca! We are aiming to do deliveries on Thursdays or Fridays in the Summer, so stay tuned for more information to come. And, if we have enough flowers, we may even plan to do a few in-person events like we did last year.
This year is our first full year with the flower farm, we are still learning so much, but it’s such an exciting process. If you’re interested in getting your hands on a bouquet or two this year, make sure to follow @eleven.acres.farm; for updates!
xo
Mary
