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Rooted Agritourism — Home & Garden
Rooted Agritourism

Rooted Agritourism is the go-to podcast for rural entrepreneurs building diversified, sustainable, and story-driven farm businesses. Hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen—flower farmer, educator, and founder of Sunny Mary Meadow cut flower farm—this show goes beyond blooms to explore the full spectrum of agritourism and value-added agriculture.

Whether you’re launching a U-pick field, hosting farm events, bottling your own products, or dreaming up the next big rural business idea, you’ll find honest insights, real-world strategies, and a whole lot of encouragement here. Each episode blends personal experience, practical tools, and conversations with innovative ag-based business owners who are redefining what it means to grow on your own terms.

From marketing perishable products to navigating burnout, building memberships, and scaling farm income streams—Rooted Agritourism is your weekly companion for building a life and business deeply rooted in purpose, place, and profitability.

Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/

Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/

Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com

FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Copyright: © Bloom & Grow LLC

Latest Episodes:

How to Best Explain the Benefits of Locally Grown Flowers to Others [REPLAY EPISODE] Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz Fiedler Mergen discusses the numerous benefits of locally grown flowers, emphasizing the importance of having a well-prepared elevator pitch to advocate for local blooms. She highlights the unique qualities of local flowers, including their freshness, sustainability, and support for the local economy. Liz also introduces a new resource, FarmersToFlorist.com, aimed at fostering collaboration between flower farmers and florists.

Takeaways

Locally grown flowers offer unmatched quality and freshness.
Having an elevator pitch is crucial for advocating local flowers.
Local flowers support the local economy and community.
Sustainability in flower farming is a gradual process.
Unique varieties of flowers are often only available locally.
Florists value the quality and convenience of local flowers.
Price should not be the main focus when selling local flowers.
Educating consumers about local flowers is essential.
FarmersToFlorist.com aims to connect farmers and florists.
Networking opportunities can elevate the local flower industry.

Downloadable PDF talked about in the episode

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

5 Tips for Getting the Most Life From Your Fresh Flowers [REPLAY EP] Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

Free Download: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/cut-flower-care-tips

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses how to care for locally grown flowers from the perspective of the customer. She emphasizes the unique qualities of these flowers, the importance of educating customers on their care, and sustainable practices in flower farming. The episode provides practical tips for prolonging the life of bouquets and highlights the significance of supporting local agriculture.

Takeaways

Locally grown flowers have fewer chemicals and are safer for the environment.
Educating customers on flower care enhances their experience and satisfaction.
Changing the water daily is crucial for flower longevity.
Flowers should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat.
Avoid storing flowers near fresh fruit to prevent wilting.
Trimming stems at an angle helps flowers absorb water better.
Removing leaves below the waterline prevents bacterial growth.
Locally grown flowers celebrate nature and support sustainable agriculture.
Providing customers with care tips can improve their results and happiness.
Utilizing email marketing can help build a customer base.

Helpful Links:

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

The Miracle on 34th Street Mindset: Integrity, Community, and Growth in Flower Farming Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the 'Miracle on 34th Street' philosophy, emphasizing the importance of customer service and community support in the flower farming business. She shares personal anecdotes about her journey in the floral industry, the challenges of meeting customer needs, and the significance of maintaining integrity and generosity in business interactions. Liz also opens up about her recent personal struggles, including a miscarriage, and announces her upcoming book, 'Flowers Bloom Anyway,' which reflects on her experiences with grief and resilience.

Takeaways

The Miracle on 34th Street motto emphasizes customer service.
Building loyalty comes from making customers feel valued.
Directing customers to others when you can't help builds trust.
An abundance mindset is crucial in business.
Playing offense rather than defense leads to success.
Integrity and generosity are key to brand reputation.
Personal experiences shape business philosophies.
Grief can lead to personal growth and new insights.
Creating positive experiences is essential for community strength.
The journey of entrepreneurship includes both challenges and triumphs.

Helpful Links:

Flowers Bloom Anyway waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Grow Your Audience Like You Grow Your Flowers: Social & SMS Marketing with Matt Diamante Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz and guest Matt Diamante discuss essential marketing strategies for small businesses, focusing on social media and SMS marketing. They explore the importance of video content, the dynamics of going viral, and effective ways to build an SMS list. The conversation emphasizes the need for small business owners to adapt to changing marketing landscapes and engage their audiences meaningfully.

Takeaways

Social media should focus on audience connection and trust.
Video content is prioritized by platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Going viral can help local businesses gain credibility.
SMS marketing is more effective than email for immediate engagement.
Avoid overwhelming customers with too many texts.
Physical marketing materials can create a lasting impression.
Building an SMS list requires consent and engagement.
Utilize events to gather customer contact information.
Personalized messages can enhance customer relationships.
Marketing principles are applicable across different business types.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Are You Chasing Time or Chasing Money in Your Business? Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the critical choice between chasing time or money in the context of flower farming. She shares her personal journey through the ups and downs of running a flower farm, emphasizing the importance of investing in systems and understanding the seasons of business. Liz highlights the challenges of growth, the necessity of organization, and the balance between working hard and maintaining sustainability. The conversation serves as a guide for farmers and entrepreneurs to navigate their own paths in business.

Takeaways

You can chase time or you can chase money, but not both.
Building a foundation is crucial for achieving goals.
Investing in systems can lead to long-term sustainability.
Chasing time often requires hiring more people and creating structure.
Chasing money involves saying yes to more opportunities and working longer hours.
Understanding your business's financials is essential for growth.
It's important to pivot and adapt to different seasons in business.
Don't believe everything you see online; many struggle behind the scenes.
Creating clear boundaries can help manage customer expectations.
Learning the laws and tax codes is vital for business success.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Simplifying Dahlia Planting: Save Time and Grow Better Blooms May 26, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses her experiences and strategies for growing dahlias at her farm in Minnesota. She shares insights on simplifying planting techniques, improving soil conditions, and innovative methods for extending the blooming season. Liz emphasizes the importance of efficient farming practices and the benefits of community support among flower farmers.

Takeaways

Dahlias are resilient and can thrive with proper care.
Simplifying planting techniques can reduce physical strain.
Using trenches for planting can improve efficiency.
Soil health is crucial for successful dahlia growth.
Utilizing compost and cover crops can enhance soil quality.
Staking methods can support dahlia plants during storms.
High tunnels can extend the blooming season for dahlias.
Proper storage techniques are essential for tuber preservation.
Community support among flower farmers can lead to industry growth.
Sustainable practices are key to long-term success in flower farming.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

How to Succeed at Flower Farming When It’s Not Your Full-Time Job May 19, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz discusses the realities of flower farming when it isn't a full-time job. She shares her experiences balancing multiple revenue streams, the importance of flexibility in scheduling, and practical strategies for preparing for planting. Liz emphasizes the significance of adapting to weather conditions, maximizing limited time, and maintaining flower beds effectively. The conversation concludes with encouragement for flower farmers to embrace their journey and find systems that work for their unique situations.

Takeaways

Flower farming can be a side gig alongside other jobs.
Flexibility in scheduling can reduce stress during peak seasons.
Investing in equipment can make flower farming easier over time.
Weather conditions significantly impact planting decisions.
It's important to prepare in the fall for a successful spring.
Planting techniques should consider soil moisture and root health.
Maximizing limited time is crucial for busy flower farmers.
Weeding and maintenance are essential for healthy flower beds.
Using grass clippings can help with weed control.
Finding a system that works for your life is key to success.

Helpful Links:

Consult for Peddling Perishable Products: https://calendly.com/sunnymarymeadow/peddling-perishable-products

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Marketing with Heart and Tech: How to Use AI Without Losing Authenticity May 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, host Liz and guest expert Mona Bavar discuss the intersection of smart marketing, authentic branding, and the use of AI strategies to enhance customer reach without sacrificing authenticity. They explore the importance of understanding one's brand story, the emotional connections that drive customer loyalty, and the role of AI in modern marketing. The conversation also touches on overcoming skepticism towards AI, effective content creation, and the value of workshops for entrepreneurs.

Takeaways

The easy part is growing the flowers; the hard part is selling them.
Understanding your brand story is crucial for clarity and vision.
Emotional connections with customers are essential for small businesses.
Authentic storytelling can differentiate your brand from competitors.
AI can be a powerful tool for content ideation and marketing strategies.
Workshops can provide valuable training for entrepreneurs.
It's important to know your target audience to communicate effectively.
Using AI should enhance your brand's voice, not replace it.
Skepticism towards AI can be overcome with hands-on experience.
The entrepreneurial journey is intertwined with personal growth.

Helpful Links:

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Find Your Flower Farm Fit: Adding Weddings and Workshops to Your Farm (Mini Series Part 3) May 05, 2025

Show notes

Webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration

In this episode, Liz wraps up the mini-series on finding your flower farm fit by discussing advanced revenue streams such as workshops, weddings, and selling to florists. She emphasizes the importance of community engagement through workshops, the complexities and profitability of wedding florals, and the nuances of building relationships with florists for consistent sales. Liz shares her personal experiences and insights on how to navigate these avenues effectively, ensuring a sustainable and profitable flower farming business.

Takeaways

Workshops can be profitable if you enjoy teaching.

Weddings require careful planning and can be stressful.

Selling to florists is about building reliable partnerships.

Community engagement is key in flower farming.

Client expectations for weddings are very high.

Workshops need proper space and tools to be successful.

Pricing for weddings should reflect the true cost of flowers.

Consistency is crucial when selling to florists.

Understanding florists' needs can lead to better sales.

Building a strong marketing strategy is essential for workshops.

Helpful Links:

Farmers to Florists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/FFFC2025

Crop Planning for Your Flower Farm: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/offers/MtoFSsED/checkout

Peddling Perishable Products: https://sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/foundationsofPPP

Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.partnerlinks.io/0o09r7rqoau4

Podcast website: www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmerforum/

Podcast Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/888196709178852

Find Your Flower Farm Fit: Subscriptions, Sponsorships, U-Picks & More (Mini Series Part 2) Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

Webinar: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/registration

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz delves into various business models for flower farming, including farm stands, subscriptions, cut flower garden kits, stem bars, U-Pick farms, and nursing home sponsorships. Each model is explored in terms of its benefits, challenges, and suitability for different types of flower farmers. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own business needs and community connections when choosing the right offerings.

Takeaways

Assess your time, money, and infrastructure before starting.
Farm stands are a low-barrier entry point for sales.
Subscriptions provide predictable income and loyal customers.
Cut flower garden kits can engage new gardeners effectively.
Stem bars create interactive experiences for customers.
U-Pick farms require careful planning and staffing.
Nursing home sponsorships can enhance community connections.
Pricing strategies are crucial for sustainability.
Understanding customer expectations is key to success.
Evolving your offerings is part of business growth.

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