Highlights: May 2008 Show

Protected Production of Fresh Cut Flowers
Andy Hankins, Virginia State University

High tunnel growing allows small growers to produce valuable cut flowers for profit during the winter months.

A high tunnel is basically an unheated greenhouse.

Funded through a grant from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, co-operators Beth Rohne and David Fridley have successfully produced and marketed cut flowers such as, anemones, ranunculus, sweet peas, snapdragons and other cut flowers that grow well in cool weather but couldn't survive outside in a field.

Once the summer heat arrives, their production will be over until fall.

This project utilizes organic management techniques that maximize yields of marketable stems.

Alpacas: Buck Ridge Farm
Lori Sorenson
1260 Schroeder Road
Powhatan, VA 23139
804.598.0804

Alpacas are members of the camelid family which also includes camels and llamas. They are native to South America.
 
They are gentle and easy to maintain livestock, perfect for the beginning farmer.
 
One acre of land can support six to eight alpacas.
 
Alpacas eat three to four cups of Alpaca feed per day and orchard grass hay.
 
Alpaca fleece is said to be warmer than wool and softer than cashmere.