Direct Sales
Direct Sales Overview
The direct sales sector of agritourism in Utah includes U-Pick operations, farm stores, farm stands, and even on-farm farmers markets. These types of agritourism ventures, on a small scale, typically have a low barrier to entry, requiring little capital or infrastructure investment.
Depending on the scale and type of activities, investments in facilities like restrooms, parking areas, and sheltered spaces might be necessary. It is also important to have an understanding of any potential tax reporting and employment changes to the business and the additional noise and traffic the visitors will bring to your farm.
Direct Sales Success Story | Petals & Pines Farm | Tremonton, UT
Petals and Pines farm in Tremonton, Utah, is a strong example of how agritourism can grow with clear vision, adaptability, and community engagement. Purchased in March 2022, the original goal was to create a Christmas tree farm. However, after realizing they had more land than needed for trees, the owners expanded into cut flower production. They began by planting available tree seedlings in May 2022 and tested a small flower patch that same summer. In 2023, they launched their u-pick flower operation and sold pre-cut Christmas trees while waiting for their own to mature.
Today, the farm has over an acre of flowers and 11 acres dedicated to future u-cut Christmas trees. Early challenges included learning irrigation and soil health from scratch. Despite that, they opened to the public in 2023 and saw over 40% of customers return in their second season, some traveling hours to visit. Looking ahead, the farm plans to introduce a peony u-pick operation with nearly 3,000 peonies, aiming to offer something not currently available in Utah. Long-term, their goal remains harvesting their own Christmas trees and expanding their flower offerings, all while keeping open space truly open.
Key Takeaway: Start with a clear vision, adapt as you grow, and focus on creating a memorable, unique experience.