URI’s Agronomy Farm Holds Cut Flower Trial Open House on Dahlias

As part of a two-year cut flower variety trial, University of Rhode Island (URI) researchers at the Agronomy Farm are evaluating snapdragons and dahlias to help strengthen the cut flower industry across Southern New England.

The farm welcomed visitors to see snapdragons in July for the trial’s first season, with dahlias now taking center stage in August. The next Cut Flower Open House takes place on Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the URI Agronomy Farm. With 800 bed feet of dahlias in bloom, this offers an opportunity for local flower growers to view dahlia varieties in the field, compare performance, and connect with other growers.

The open house is open to farmers and community members looking to grow flowers for profit. The public is also welcome to attend to learn more about research and programs happening at the URI Agronomy Farm. URI Entomologist Lisa Tewksbury from the URI Biocontrol Lab will be present to discuss insect pest pressure on cut flowers and will also offer a ‘pest walk’ through the cut flower trial.

The program is overseen by Tricia Lourenco Boucher, with support from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management. The trial aims to identify high-performing varieties that can help diversify small farms and support the region’s agricultural economy. Additionally, the Cut Flower Trial is supported through the USDA — RI DEM Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.

For more information on the upcoming open house at the Agronomy Farm, including parking and contact information, click here.