Why we chose to grow flowers.

Willow Oak Flower Farm is a small family owned and operated farm in Timberlake, North Carolina. Our 17 acre farm didn't start as a cut flower farm. In fact the farm was going to be used for raising Nigerian Dwarf goats, chickens and horses while we grew crops that we knew nothing about. It never occurred to us that we should grow what we know. We had fields overgrown with briars and broomstraw that grew despite the rocks and boulders that lived deep in the soil. We were surrounded by a forest of beautiful willow oaks and pines that were swallowed by dead trees smothered in vines. We looked at it as a blank canvas, full of possibilities and ready for its artist.

Prior to purchasing our land, we grew cut flowers and foliage in places as small as a city backyard. Anywhere we could plant, there was color! Most of the time they were planted for the pure joy of seeing nature's beauty. On many occasions we had an abundant amount that we could share with family, friends and neighbors. That simple gift of flowers brought so much happiness to us and the receivers. It started a spark!

Although it was our passion for growing and sharing that sparked this adventure, it was the amazing community support that gave us the courage to move forward in our journey. Without the guidance and faith from our local farmers and friends, we would still be lost in the briars and broomstraw.

Kelli, Brian and family