Early Tulips and a Fresh Start to the Season

I’m just back from the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers conference in New Mexico, and coming home to a grow space full of growing tulips felt like perfect timing. There’s something powerful about stepping away from the day-to-day work, gathering ideas, and then returning to the farm with fresh perspective as the season begins to unfold. 

The conference itself was packed with practical takeaways. I picked up new tricks and small refinements—those little process improvements that don’t always look dramatic from the outside but make a real difference over the course of a season. From production efficiencies to better ways of timing harvests, new varieties, and newly released SARE research projects, it was one of those reminders that farming is always a practice, always something you can get just a little better at each year.

Equally important were the connections. Spending time with other flower farmers, especially those growing in unique climates, reinforced how valuable community is in this work. Conversations with area growers sparked ideas, confirmed we’re not alone in some of the challenges we face, and opened the door to future collaboration and support. It’s grounding to talk with people who truly understand the rhythm of the seasons and the realities of growing flowers all over North America.

Coming home, the energy carried straight into the grow space. Winter tulips have a way of changing quickly once they decide it’s time. After months of cooling bulbs, monitoring temperatures, and patiently waiting, we’re finally at that moment where harvest is close enough to feel real! 

With the first tulips nearly ready, we’re also gearing up for a few early-season pop-ups. We'll be back for a pre-party flower bar at Paws and Pints on February 13, 2026. These are simple, relaxed opportunities to share fresh, Iowa-grown tulips at a time of year when flowers still feel like a surprise. 

For our Tulip CSA members, the first delivery is just around the corner. Those early bouquets are always special—clean lines, fresh color, and a clear signal that spring is beginning, even if winter hasn’t fully loosened its grip yet. If you’re part of the CSA, keep an eye on your inbox for pickup information very soon!

All in all, I'm feeling energized, refreshed, and ready to hit the ground running. The combination of learning, connection, and the return of fresh flowers makes this one of our favorite moments of the year. Thank you for being part of the start of this season with us—we can’t wait to share what’s blooming next.