Heat and Drought Challenge Cut Flower Farms

By Scout Nelson

South Dakota cut flower farms are facing greater challenges as high temperatures and dry conditions affect crop production and farm businesses. Limited water supplies can make it harder for growers to meet the needs of flowers while also managing other farm priorities. Producers can respond by adjusting production, customer activities, and water use.

Research and guidance from Nick Volesky, SDSU Extension Horticulture and Specialty Crops Field Specialist, Nick Volesky, Kristine Lang, and Gabby Thooft highlight several ways farms can manage heat and drought challenges. Their work focuses on protecting flower quality, improving water use, and helping specialty crop farms remain productive.

Heat also affects agritourism. Many flower farms invite customers to participate in u-pick activities, classes, workshops, and events. During very hot weather, farms may need to reduce hours or close temporarily to protect visitors and workers. Providing drinking water, shade, sunscreen, rest breaks, and cooler areas can improve safety. Scheduling activities during cooler morning or evening hours can also reduce heat risks.

Production practices are important as well. Flowers should be harvested early in the morning when plants are cooler and contain more water. After harvest, flowers should move quickly into refrigerated storage to reduce heat and slow wilting. Most flowers store best at about 32 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit, while zinnias need warmer storage.

Shade cloth can help reduce heat and sunlight stress for some flower crops. Drip irrigation is another useful tool because it sends water directly to plant roots while reducing water loss. When overhead irrigation is necessary, applying water during cooler periods can help limit evaporation.

Growers can also consider flower varieties that perform well with limited water and warm weather. Options include amaranthus, celosia, centaurea, cosmos, dianthus, eryngium, gomphrena, statice, sunflower, and zinnia.

Recommendations

• Monitor weather: Track heat and drought conditions before planning farm activities.
• Harvest early: Pick flowers during cooler morning hours to protect quality.
• Improve cooling: Move harvested flowers quickly into suitable refrigerated storage.
• Conserve water: Use drip irrigation and avoid midday watering when possible.
• Choose suitable crops: Consider warm-season flowers that can perform with limited water.

Photo Credit: pexels-swapnilrony99