In 2023, Maggie Taylor wrote an article for Growing for Market Magazine about several projects she had started as part of a grant program incorporating agroforestry into Delight Flower Farm in Illinois. Since many of the projects were on a three-year timeline, we thought this would be a great time to check in and see how they turned out! The projects included alley cropping, windbreak renovation, wildlife structures, cover cropping and adding an additional high tunnel through the NRCS EQUIP program.
You can read her original article in the link above or show notes below. Then, hear what Maggie wishes she knew before starting her alley cropping project, how having perennials mixed in with annuals affects both, and why it’s a good idea to give yourself more time than you think you need for USDA grant projects. We also cover intercropping ideas so you can make some revenue off your perennial beds before they are mature, and talk about how having multiple programs on your NRCS application can improve the chances of getting your grant approved.
Connect With Guest:
Instagram: @delightflowerfarm
Website: delightflowerfarm.com
Read Maggie’s GFM article (discussed in the interview) : Flower farm incorporates agroforestry
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