Tulips may not be the first crop that comes to mind when you think of N.C. agriculture, but the beautiful flower is part of a significant agricultural sector in our state – floriculture. The sector, consisting of flowers and ornamental plants, contributes more than $207 million to the state’s overall agricultural economy. Flower growers, like the Van Staalduinens, have helped the state become fifth in floriculture production in the nation and a leader in the industry. You can find out more information about North Carolina’s floriculture industry at www.ncflowers.org.