It takes a lot of planning, coordination, and care to get our vibrant spring flowers into containers across Central Ohio. While our goal is to make the final product look effortless, there’s a whole story behind each installation. We checked in with Kevin Johnson, Greenhouse Manager at Acorn Farms, to give you a peek into the process—from early planning to greenhouse growing to delivery day. Scroll down for behind-the-scenes photos from the farm and learn how your annual planters go from concept to container!
OGI: How long does it take to grow the flowers for summer container plantings?
Kevin: Unlike trees and shrubs, which can take several months or even years to reach a sellable size, many annual crops can be finished in just a matter of weeks. Most summer annuals are targeted to be ready for customers to plant around the somewhat imaginary, and often fickle, frost-free date of May 15th in Central Ohio.
OGI: So, when do you start planting crops for summer installation?
Kevin: We plant the bulk of our 4 inch production in early April to meet that sell date. However, bigger pots like mixed containers and hanging baskets are started in late February to be big, bold, and beautiful for when the weather breaks and it’s their time to shine outdoors.
OGI: Do you have to pre-order the plants you want to grow?
Kevin: Yes. The planning for all this to happen starts almost a year before the planting.
Researching new varieties that will perform well for customers. Speculating what varieties and colors may be popular next year. Going out to trial gardens and job sites to see what plants are thriving in tough summer conditions. Ordering seeds. A lot of background work goes into getting the right plant.
OGI: Does the same idea apply for spring annuals, like pansies and fall annuals, like mums?
Kevin: Sure does! Poinsettias and holiday annuals as well. When we know what our landscape and nurseries want ahead of time, we’re able to budget greenhouse space, order custom plant varieties, and make sure their plants are ready when they need them for installation.
OGI: Any advice for clients that are looking for specific plants or big displays?
Kevin: The takeaway is simple: order early. There are a lot of steps in the supply chain before that plant even reaches your local grower. The earlier you can order, the wider the palette of plant material available.
Big thanks to Kevin and the Acorn Farms team for giving us a peek behind the scenes. We’re so grateful for their partnership and the hard work that helps our spring displays bloom beautifully across Central Ohio!
