A Blossoming Success: Bear Creek Farm and Fertrell

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Upstate New York, Bear Creek Farm has cultivated a reputation for producing some of the most exquisite cut flowers in the country. Owned and operated by Debra Kaye for the past eight years, this flourishing farm has become a beacon of excellence in the floral industry, particularly renowned for its stunning dahlias. The secret behind their vibrant blooms and robust growth lies in their meticulous farming practices and a commitment to sustainable agriculture, supported by Fertrell products.

The Birth of Bear Creek Farm

Bear Creek Farm’s journey began when Debra’s husband Steven proposed, a florist friend recommended using dahlias for their wedding. At that time, Debra knew nothing about growing flowers. However, her background as a corporate strategist and innovation consultant had taught her that the best business plans start with curiosity, research, and problem-solving. So, she embarked on my journey as a novice grower, and what she planted for their wedding blossomed into a larger idea—one that continues to evolve.

The Jewel of Bear Creek Farm: Dahlias

Among the various blooms that Bear Creek Farm cultivates, dahlias hold a special place. These flowers, known for their vibrant colors and intricate petal structures, have captured the hearts of flower enthusiasts worldwide. Bear Creek Farm's dahlias have won many awards including Best Dahlias by New York Magazine.

Growing dahlias is no easy task. These flowers require meticulous care and the right combination of nutrients to thrive. "Our dahlias get the best possible start and continue to thrive throughout the growing season," says Debra. Their commitment to excellence has placed Bear Creek Farm among the top five growers of dahlias in the United States.

Fertrell: A Partner in Growth

While the success of Bear Creek Farm is largely attributed to Debra Kaye and her team’s dedication and expertise, Fertrell's organic products have played a supportive role in maintaining the health and vitality of their crops. The farm uses a variety of Fertrell fertilizers and soil amendments, each tailored to meet the specific needs of their flowers. Key products include Liquid Kelp, Phostrell, Sulfate of Potash, and a custom fertilizer blend. These products provide essential nutrients and minerals, promoting strong growth and vibrant blooms.

A Commitment to Ntural Practices

Bear Creek Farm's dedication to natural farming practices goes beyond the use of Fertrell products. Debra Kaye and her team implement a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability. They believe that healthy soil is the foundation of healthy plants, and this philosophy guides every aspect of their farming operations.

Cover cropping is one of the key practices employed at Bear Creek Farm. By planting cover crops during the off-season, they improve soil structure, enhance nutrient levels, and prevent erosion. These cover crops are then turned into the soil as green manure, further enriching the soil with organic matter.

They believe another important factor is good soil health is how we ensure we protect it. One of these ways is by avoiding landscape fabric wherever possible (eventually we hope to not use any) and through the use of ground covers and mulch.

The Flowering Seasons at Bear Creek Farm

Bear Creek Farm's growing season is a carefully orchestrated symphony of colors and scents. The farm cultivates a diverse array of flowers, each with its own unique charm. While dahlias are the star of the show, the farm also grows Iceland poppies, tulips, peonies, tiger lilies, zinnias, and osmos. Additionally, they are the only grower in the region to cultivate heirloom chrysanthemums, using only the traditional methods of cultivation.

Dahlias (September to October): The dahlia season is undoubtedly the highlight of the year at Bear Creek Farm. These magnificent blooms, with their kaleidoscope of colors and intricate shapes, attract visitors from near and far. The farm's dahlias are so popular that they often sell out within 30 minutes at the Union Square market among other locations. Fertrell's fertilizers and soil supplements provide the necessary nourishment for these cherished blooms.

Iceland Poppies (Planted in March): As the winter frost melts away, Bear Creek Farm comes alive with the delicate beauty of Iceland poppies. These early bloomers, with their vibrant hues and papery petals, herald the arrival of spring.

Tulips and Peonies: Spring at Bear Creek Farm is a riot of colors, thanks to the tulips and peonies that burst into bloom. Tulips, with their bold, cheerful colors, and peonies, with their lush, fragrant blossoms, create a stunning visual spectacle.

Summer Blooms (Tiger Lilies, Zinnias, and Cosmos): As summer unfolds, Bear Creek Farm transforms into a vibrant tapestry of tiger lilies, zinnias, and cosmos. These hardy flowers thrive in the warm summer sun, Debra’s team ensures that they receive the essential nutrients to maintain their vigor and beauty throughout the season.

Heirloom Chrysanthemums: Fall at Bear Creek Farm is marked by the timeless elegance of heirloom chrysanthemums. These flowers, with their rich colors and intricate forms, are a testament to the farm's dedication to preserving floral heritage.

A Blossoming Future

Bear Creek Farm's success story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and sustainable farming practices. Debra Kaye's unwavering commitment to agriculture has propelled the farm to the forefront of the cut flower industry.

Looking ahead, Debra and her team have ambitious plans for the future. They aim to expand their operations, introduce new flower varieties, and continue their mission of promoting sustainable farming practices. Education and community engagement are also key components of their vision. Bear Creek Farm regularly hosts workshops and farm tours, sharing their knowledge and inspiring others to embrace natural farming practices.

Final Thoughts

Bear Creek Farm's journey from a dream to a flourishing enterprise is a story of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of farming. Debra Kaye and her team's dedication to sustainable agriculture, coupled with the support of Fertrell products, has created a thriving oasis of beauty and biodiversity.

As Bear Creek Farm continues to bloom and grow, it serves as a shining example of what can be achieved when farmers prioritize the health of their soil, their plants, and their planet. With each vibrant dahlia and every delicate poppy, Bear Creek Farm is not just cultivating flowers; they are cultivating a legacy of sustainability and excellence in the world of cut flowers.

Learn more about Bear Creek Farm on Instagram and Facebook at @bearcreekfresh or on their website at www.bearcreekfarm.com