Welcome to the Cutting Garden forum. As far as sales records, we use the Quick Books Pro software program. For other record data such as sowing, transplanting, planting, bloom dates, harvest dates, etc, we transfer information from our notebooks into an Excel spreadsheet. I have to tell you, however, that we keep our notebooks full of information. I love being able to use my bright color Sharpie pens. And, I really like making notes on the print-outs with colored pen. Last season, the pen color of choice was apparently purple.

Last November Growing for Market had an article written about a good record keeping system. You can also purchase a record keeping software program from another grower for a nominal fee. I have linked the website below.

Trish

Here is a link that might be useful: Crop Planning Spreadsheet Information

Trish, thanks for the information. My husband said he thought Excel was going to be the way to go. Do you track your cuts down to the number harvested by plant or do you estimate for square footage returns? Thanks again. Kat

Miss Kitty,
We tend to look at the big picture. We're not stem counters; however, we do look at per square foot returns on both hightunnel and field production. My opinion is that one has to look at the big picture. There are always some flowers that on their own may not be worth growing. They do, however, at times help sell some of the other flowers. The Quick Books Pro program is a valuable sales record tool. Excel is also very helpful in planning. Both equally important in this flower farming business.

Trish

Miss Kitty,
I use Excel...however at some point will be pursuing Quickbooks too, just am not that big yet! I use Excel for my plant orders (sometimes can copy from prior years!), invoices, recordkeeping, and for a flower availability list - I used a format similar to the one that Bob Wollam a grower in PA has on his website. I also use it for a farm map...listing the beds by area and what's planted in them...primarily for my helpers who don't know the plants as well as I do! That way I can say go to the upper east section, row 3 and weed it! I had intended to pursue the crop program Trish mentioned and had forgotten about it. Let us know if you order it and what you think! And, welcome!

Wendy

Wendy, thanks for your input too. I have started with Excel and I am going to have to go to Quickbooks as well. I really have to start this thing right or I'll be in huge trouble come tax time. Thanks again.