Donna Yowell has earned the title of the “First Lady of Horticulture in Mississippi.” Born and educated in Mississippi, Yowell has a heart for farming and teaching, a passion for preservation and organization, and the determination to make a positive economic impact. For over thirty years, Yowell has worked tirelessly to bring a whole new growing and flowering cottage industry to farming in Mississippi.
Five years ago, Yowell created the non-profit Flower Growers of Mississippi to grow the cut flower industry in Mississippi.
“As many as 86% of all cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported, and less than 20% sold in America are grown in America,” shared Yowell. “Yet, 85% of all people in the U.S. buy flowers.”
Cut flowers are among the best cash crops for small growers, according to the 2009 National Agriculture Statistics, and have a profit potential of up to $30,000 per acre.
“There is an opportunity to start part-time or dive right in,” laughed Yowell. “Mississippi’s climate makes it perfect for growing cut flowers and has plenty of markets for flower farmers. You can grow it for local farmer’s markets, florists, and restaurants.”
Flowers Growers of Mississippi has established and instructed a 15,000-strong and still-growing network of students, professional farmers, and backyard gardeners growing a successful farming business.
“You could say that the program has blossomed over the last five years,” laughed Yowell. “And there is room for more flower farmers, especially those looking to take it to the next level as a thriving business.”
Those interested in flower farming can participate in Flowers Growers of Mississippi at no charge. The non-profit trains promising farmers how to grow florist-quality cut flowers, provides sources of locally grown cut flowers, and highlights ways to produce and sell cut flowers for the benefit of individuals, producers, families, schools, and other groups. Virtual and hands-on courses are available for anyone interested in how to produce cut flowers.
Part of Yowell’s vision for cultivating an industry of flower farmers is to demonstrate the Power of Flowers.
“Cut flowers are one of the most profitable crops you can grow, with the highest dollar yield per stem,” explains Yowell. “Flower farming supports economic development, horticulture therapy, building local businesses and jobs, and highlighting Mississippi’s natural capital.”
Understanding the economic impact flowers and trees can have on communities keeps Yowell hitting the pavement as the executive director for the Mississippi Urban Forest Council, advising the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Mayors, Governors, or local farmers and garden clubs, designing the Arboretum Trail, or teaching the following generation growers.
Flower Growers of Mississippi also participates in charitable activities, which include providing free-cut flowers to hospital patients and others. As a farmer herself, Yowell vows to continue to advocate for the expansion of local farms, green spaces, and forests, supporting Mississippi’s economy and ecosystem along the way. For more information and to sign up for future workshops, locate Flower Growers of Mississippi on Facebook or join their newsletter by going to www.msurbanforest.com.
*Photos provided by Mississippi Urban Forest Council and Flower Growers of Mississippi
