The Versatility of Jewels of Opar: A Must-Have for Your Flower Farm

On this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum Podcast, I dive into the beauty and benefits of growing jewels of opar—a flower that has added incredible value to my own floral designs. This delicate yet versatile plant brings a unique texture and movement to bouquets and arrangements, making it a must-have for any flower farmer or florist looking to offer something a little different. Here, I’ll share my personal experiences growing jewels of opar, practical tips for harvesting, and some insights I’ve gained about running a flower farm.

Adding Texture and Movement to Bouquets

One of the reasons I’m such a fan of jewels of opar is the texture and movement it brings to arrangements. Whether I’m designing a bridal bouquet or crafting a centerpiece for a special event, the delicate stems and tiny pink blooms of this plant create a whimsical, airy feel. They sway beautifully in the wind and move effortlessly in any design, adding an element of softness and elegance.

As flower farmers, we’re always searching for unique stems that elevate our arrangements. Jewels of opar does just that. It can serve as a filler, but it’s so much more than that—it can be the star of the show or an elegant supporting player in a larger design. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in everything from weddings and events to wearable flowers like crowns or boutonnieres.

A Long-Lasting Bloom

Another reason I’ve grown to love jewels of opar is its extended blooming season. It typically starts flowering in mid-August, and the blooms keep coming until the end of the season. For me, that consistency is crucial—especially during late summer and early fall, when the demand for flowers remains high. With these long-lasting blooms, I’m able to meet the needs of my clients without scrambling to find filler flowers or fresh stems.

Tips for Harvesting Jewels of Opar

Harvesting jewels of opar can be a bit tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s incredibly rewarding. The key is to wait until the petals have fallen off and the berries become woody and rigid. These small berries offer a unique visual texture that really stands out in arrangements, but they need to be harvested at just the right moment. Too early, and they won’t hold up. Too late, and they may have lost their vibrancy.

Once harvested, jewels of opar holds up well in a vase or arrangement, making it a practical and beautiful option for anyone looking to add texture and depth to their floral work.

A Lesson in Reflection

As I wrapped up this podcast episode, I felt compelled to remind myself—and all of you—that before making any big decisions in our flower farming businesses, it’s so important to pause and reflect. Whether you’re thinking about expanding your operation, adding a new crop, or shifting your business model, take a step back, gather the information you need, and make sure it’s the right move for you. Rushing into decisions can lead to burnout, missed opportunities, or unnecessary stress.

Jewels of opar has not only added beauty to my bouquets but has also been a reminder to cultivate patience and reflection in both my farming and my business choices. It’s a plant that brings joy to my clients and helps me grow as a flower farmer, and I hope it can do the same for you.

If you're considering adding jewels of opar to your flower farm, I encourage you to give it a try. Its versatility, long-lasting bloom, and ability to enhance any floral design make it a valuable addition to any farmer's lineup.