Illinois Willows

In the fall of 1999, Kent Miles, also known as Mr. Willows, purchased a cornfield with the dream of growing fresh cut flowers and woody ornamentals for direct-to-consumer and wholesale customers. After clearing the land from corn stubble with the help of a neighbor, Kent planted his first beds of annuals and perennials in the spring of 2000. With a background in floral design, he chose to grow unique flowers not commonly found in local flower shops. His initial crops included Celosia, Ageratum, Yarrow, Sunflowers, Liatris, and Gomphrenna. Nearly 20 years later, the farm offers products year-round, catering to both direct-to-consumer sales and the wholesale trade.

Kent Miles began by clearing the land of corn stubble left from the previous harvest, utilizing a stalk-chopper to prepare the soil. He then laid out and planted beds of annuals and perennials, focusing on flowers that were less common in local markets. The farm now grows over 60 varieties of flowers, foliage, and woody ornamental branches, ensuring a diverse and unique product offering.

The farm's customers include special events, wholesale florists, wedding planners, and farmers markets. Cut flower season runs from April to November, while woody branches are available from November to April. The farm offers tours for groups and universities and ships products via Spee-Dee delivery service and FedEx. Red Curly Willow wreaths are a specialty, available in various sizes. Illinois Willows is a member of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers and has been a past director of the Midwest Regional Director of ASCFG.