Timmonsville farm flourishes, providing Florence with fresh flowers
In the heart of Timmonsville, South Carolina, a new trend is blossoming. U-Pick flower farms have been cropping up across the state, and Bay Branch Farm, run by Janet and Richard Porter, is leading the charge in Florence. Until the end of October, residents can select their own bouquet from the Porters’ vibrant array of flowers.
A Flourishing Enterprise
The Porters’ journey into the flower business sprung from a trip to Cotton Hills Farm in Lowrys. At the time, they were growing pumpkins on their small tract of land in Timmonsville. The Cotton Hills Farm, a larger operation that cultivates pumpkins across 100 acres of land, gave the Porters the inspiration to diversify their own farm. When they stumbled across Cotton Hills Farm’s U-pick flower operation, Janet and Richard realized they could use their equipment from their previous strawberry farming ventures to cultivate flowers as well.
“It’s a way to make some money off of the property that we own, but it’s also a blessing to be able to make other people happy,” Janet Porter shared. Last year, the couple took a batch of flowers to the City Center Farmers Market in Florence, selling all of them.
More Than Just A Flower Farm
Bay Branch Farm’s verdant fields bloom with perennial and annual varieties like china asters and sunflowers, but the farm offers more than just flora. The surrounding land is used for growing blackberries and pumpkins and as a social and event space.
“Just come to be out in nature, be out in the fresh air,” Janet Porter encourages. “Enjoy beautiful flowers and being with your friends.” Tables for book clubs, garden clubs, and floral arrangement classes dot the area, creating a vibrant community-centered space. Janet notes that they are constantly looking to expand, adding something new every year to the mix.
Flower Arranging Classes
Along with the U-Pick operation, Bay Branch Farm also provides flower arranging classes under the guidance of Sandra Dail from Sandra’s Creative Styles. Sandra first heard about the Porters’ venture from a friend, and the collaboration blossomed from there. She finds fulfillment in teaching people how to craft their own arrangements and care for their flowers properly while supporting another local business.
“It’s like a proud mother when you try to teach your kids how to ride a bicycle and all of a sudden they’re riding it, and they’re just gleaming,” Dail shares, expressing the satisfaction she receives from teaching her craft.
Visiting the Farm
For those interested in experiencing the beauty of Bay Branch Farm, a visit is in order. A quart cup of their vibrant flowers costs $16, two cups cost $30, and a small bucket holds double what the cup can for just $25. Whether you’re a flower aficionado or just looking for a relaxing day amid nature, Janet and Richard Porter welcome all to experience the beauty and tranquility that Bay Branch Farm has to offer.
