Molly Mose poses next to her sign and plants.
At 17 years old and as a current junior in high school, Molly Mose of the North Scott FFA Chapter in Eldridge, Iowa, has developed a successful entrepreneurship-focused Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) that includes the production and sale of dahlia flowers. What began as a small project has grown into a rewarding business that combines hands-on agricultural skills, creativity and customer relationships.
Mose’s interest in flower production began when she reached out to a close friend who was an experienced flower grower. That friend generously shared extra dahlia tubers and helped Mose get started with her SAE.
Since then, mentorship has played a vital role in her success. Mose credits Marla Brown, Emily Kruse-Cain and North Scott FFA advisor Jacob Hunter for their continued support and guidance. In particular, Brown has been a key mentor and partner, teaching her valuable techniques for producing high-quality dahlias and running a flower business.
Mose checks up on her flowers.
Mose’s SAE involves managing dahlias from start to finish throughout the entire growing cycle. After the first frost in the fall, she digs up the dahlia tubers to prevent damage from cold temperatures. During the winter months, the tubers are stored until February, when they are cleaned and divided to prepare for the upcoming growing season. As spring approaches, the tubers are planted in starter cups and cared for in a greenhouse, where they are watered, monitored and inspected regularly to ensure healthy growth. After the last frost, the young plants are transplanted into the garden, where they continue to grow, and eventually bloom by mid to late summer.
A normal day during the growing season includes caring for plants in the greenhouse by watering, inspecting for pests or diseases and ensuring optimal growing conditions. In addition to plant care, Mose dedicates time to marketing her business through social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook. These tools help her advertise sales, share updates and connect with customers.
Mose sells her dahlias at her high school plant sale, online and in person at Brown’s Farm. Among the many varieties she grows, her favorite is ‘Lavender Perfection’ because it is a soft magenta/purple color and “looks great in full bloom,” she says. This variety, along with ‘Just Peachy,’ have been the most popular choices among customers.
Mose smiles as she sells her plants.
One of the most challenging aspects of running her flower business is learning to remain patient during the spring growing season. “Because each tuber grows at a different pace, not all plants look the same at the same time,” Mose says. However, she has learned that patience and consistent care are essential for success.
The most rewarding part of her SAE is seeing customers enjoy their flowers. “Receiving photos of blooming dahlias and hearing positive feedback makes the hard work worthwhile,” Mose says.
Through this experience, she has learned the importance of taking challenges one step at a time. By balancing both the creative and business sides of her operation, Mose continues to grow not only beautiful flowers, but also valuable skills for her future.
