Ashley Vail - Blooming Kansas

Ask A Kansan
Feb 23
1 min read

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYG8gbpGOOk

Ashley Vail is the owner and founder of Vail Family Farm, a specialty cut flower farm located just north of Salina, Kansas. What began during the pandemic with backyard chickens quickly grew into a bold leap into flower farming—despite Ashley having no prior experience growing anything beyond her two children. Now heading into her sixth season, she cultivates thousands of blooms on a half-acre of production within her five-acre homestead, focusing on high-quality, locally grown cut flowers. Known especially for her expanding peony fields—nearly 2,000 plants strong—Ashley has built a loyal customer base through flower subscriptions, farmers' markets, on-farm events, and bouquet experiences.

A registered nurse by training, Ashley transitioned from full-time bedside care to part-time remote work so she could focus more fully on the farm. Her journey reflects both grit and adaptability, navigating Kansas weather extremes, drought, hailstorms, and high winds while growing a business rooted in community support. Social media has played a key role in her success, where she shares the honest realities—both the setbacks and the wins—of flower farming. Vail Family Farm is truly a family operation, with her husband Matt (affectionately known online as the “Reluctant Farmer Husband”) managing infrastructure and her children contributing behind the scenes. Ashley’s passion lies in growing exceptional blooms—especially peonies—and continuing to expand spring production to serve Kansas with locally grown beauty.