The Cut Flower Podcast

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Hey flower enthusiasts, it's Roz Chandler here! I'm thrilled to have you with us today. We have a delightful episode lined up, featuring two inspiring guests from Organic Blooms – Jo Wright and Wendy Paul. Organic Blooms is not just any flower farm; it's a social enterprise with a beautiful mission. Let's dive in and explore their journey, insights, and the magic they bring to the world of cut flowers.Episode SummaryIn this episode, Jo Wright and Wendy Paul from Organic Blooms share their incredible journey of growing British cut flowers while supporting individuals with special needs. We discuss the origins of Organic Blooms, the challenges and rewards of running a social enterprise, and their unique approach to sustainable and therapeutic horticulture.Key TakeawaysSocial Enterprise Model: Organic Blooms combines horticultural therapy with commercial flower farming, offering meaningful work to people with support needs.Sustainability and Organic Practices: Jo and Wendy emphasise the importance of organic certification and sustainable practices, showcasing how their methods contribute to environmental health and resilience.Community and Collaboration: The episode highlights the power of community support and collaboration, especially through networks like Flowers from the Farm.Challenges of Flower Farming: Jo and Wendy candidly discuss the seasonal pressures, weather unpredictability, and the balancing act of managing a diverse team.Business Evolution: From starting with just a few acres to becoming a successful social enterprise, learn how Organic Blooms evolved and adapted to the market demands and opportunities.Therapeutic Benefits: Discover the therapeutic benefits of horticulture for individuals with autism and Asperger's, and how Organic Blooms creates a supportive work environment.ConclusionJo and Wendy's story is a testament to the power of combining passion with purpose. Their commitment to organic farming, social responsibility, and creating a therapeutic environment is truly inspiring. Whether you're a flower farmer, a gardening enthusiast, or someone interested in social enterprises, this episode has something for everyone.Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the vibrant world of cut flowers. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favourite platform!Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by Brunchi.shop & First Tunnels First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.It's Roz Chandler here with a special solo episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Today, I'll be diving into a topic that has sparked a lot of interest – growing flowers in a polytunnel. Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer or just starting out, this episode will provide valuable insights and tips on how to optimise your flower growing efforts under cover.SummaryIn this episode, we explore the advantages of using polytunnels for flower farming. Polytunnels provide a controlled environment that protects plants from extreme weather, pests, and diseases, while also extending the growing season. I share my personal experiences and practical advice on how to make the most of these structures, including what types of flowers thrive best in them and how to manage the unique challenges they present. From climate control to water efficiency, we cover all the essential aspects of polytunnel cultivation.Key TakeawaysClimate Control: Polytunnels offer a stable environment, shielding flowers from extreme temperatures, wind, rain, and frost, which leads to consistent growth conditions and higher quality blooms.Extended Growing Season: These structures allow for an extended growing season, enabling farmers to start earlier in the spring and continue later into the autumn and winter, thus maximising market opportunities.Pest and Disease Management: Polytunnels act as a barrier against many pests and diseases. Although not foolproof, they make it easier to manage and control infestations, particularly with the use of biological pest controls.Water Efficiency: With fine-tuned irrigation systems, polytunnels ensure optimal water usage, reducing waste and stress on plants, which is crucial for maintaining plant health and flower quality.Improved Flower Quality: Flowers grown in polytunnels are often of superior quality due to the protection from weather and pests. This leads to more pleasing and marketable blooms.Specific Plant Needs: Different flowers have different requirements. For instance, roses benefit from the controlled environment to avoid weather damage, while delphiniums and dahlias thrive with protection from wind and rain.Planning and Investment: Investing in a polytunnel is significant but worthwhile. Careful planning of what to grow and where to place your polytunnel is essential to maximise benefits and return on investment.Join me as I delve into each of these points, sharing tips from my 15 years of experience and how we do it at Fieldgate Flowers. I'll also touch on our specific use of polytunnels for various flowers, including our upcoming projects. https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Today, we’re in for a real treat as we chat with the wonderful Kim Fleming from Marlston Farm Girl. Grab a cuppa, sit back, and let’s dive into Kim’s fascinating journey and insights into flower farming.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we have an engaging conversation with Kim Fleming, the vibrant force behind Marlston Farm Girl. Kim shares her inspiring journey from America to the UK, her decision to dive into flower farming, and how she built her business from the ground up during the lockdown. We explore her passion for sustainable, organic British flowers, and the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. Kim’s story is one of determination, creativity, and a relentless drive to make a positive impact in the floral industry.Key TakeawaysFrom Garden Design to Flower Farming: Kim’s transition from garden design in America to running a successful flower farm in the UK, inspired by her love for gardening and the unexpected opportunity presented during the lockdown.Sustainable and Organic Practices: The importance of growing flowers sustainably and organically, and how Kim has implemented these practices on her farm to contribute to a healthier environment.Challenges of Flower Farming: The various challenges Kim faces, including unpredictable weather, labour management, and the steep learning curve from gardening to full-scale farming.Business Growth and Strategy: Kim’s approach to scaling her business rapidly to ensure its sustainability and success, and her decision to focus on wholesale as a key market.Community and Collaboration: The significance of community and collaboration in the flower farming industry, and how Kim values and leverages these relationships to grow her business.Future Aspirations: Kim’s ambitious plans for the future, including expanding her seed company to promote the use of British-grown seeds and furthering her mission of sustainability.Personal Reflections: Insightful reflections from both Kim and Roz on their experiences in the flower farming industry, their love for what they do, and the personal fulfilment they find in their work.Connect with Kim FlemingInstagram: @Marlston_FarmGirlWebsite: Marlston Farm GirlThis episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in flower farming, sustainability, or entrepreneurship. Kim’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, and it offers valuable lessons for flower enthusiasts and business owners alike. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.I'm delighted to welcome you to another blooming episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with Adam Marshall, known as Green Fingered City Boy on Instagram. Adam's journey from a complete novice to a gardening sensation is truly inspiring. Join us as we explore his story, his passion projects, and how he has captivated nearly 70,000 followers with his relatable and engaging content.Episode Summary:In this episode, I sit down with Adam Marshall to discuss his incredible transformation from a non-gardener to a beloved Instagram gardening personality. Adam shares how he discovered gardening just before the 2020 lockdown and how it became a vital part of his physical and mental well-being. We talk about his ambitious projects, the challenges he's faced, and how he manages to balance a full-time job with his gardening and social media commitments. Adam's journey is a testament to the therapeutic power of gardening and the impact of sharing your passion with a community.Key Takeaways:Gardening as Therapy:Adam began gardening to improve his physical health, discovering it also offered tremendous mental health benefits.From Novice to Expert:Despite starting with little knowledge, Adam's dedication and enthusiasm have made him a proficient gardener.Leveraging Social Media:By sharing his gardening journey on Instagram, Adam has built a large and supportive following, inspiring many to start their own gardening adventures.Tackling Big Projects:Adam discusses how he approaches large gardening projects and the importance of breaking them down into manageable steps.Balancing Act:Balancing a full-time job with his gardening passion, Adam shares his strategies for managing his time effectively.Community and Support:Adam emphasises the importance of building a supportive community and collaborating with others in the gardening world.Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges:From plant failures to winning a gold award at Gardeners' World Live, Adam talks about the ups and downs of his gardening journey.Get in Touch:Follow Adam Marshall:Instagram: @greenfingeredcityboyWebsite: Green Fingered City Boy MerchandiseJoin Us Next Time:Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Cutflower Podcast. I hope Adam's story has inspired you to get your hands dirty and start your own gardening journey. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast, First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.In this episode, we explore the incredible world of flower farming with Rozz Darlington, the owner of Rosaline's Flowers and The Flower Paddock in Cheshire. Rozz shares her journey from being a florist to becoming a flower grower, highlighting the difficulties she faced during Brexit and the pandemic. She discusses the challenges of maintaining quality and supply of flowers and how she transitioned to growing her own on her family’s farm.We delve into the realities of flower farming, including battling nature, the hard work involved, and the unique aspects of the business. Rozz and I exchange stories about the highs and lows of our careers, the importance of transitioning slowly into flower farming, and the sheer unpredictability of the job.Rozz also shares personal anecdotes about her experience on reality TV, after appearing on Married At First Sight, dealing with the pressures of social media, and the invaluable lessons she's learned about resilience and self-confidence. The episode is filled with laughter, insightful tips, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and challenges of flower farming.Key TakeawaysTransitioning to Flower Farming: Rozz emphasises the importance of transitioning slowly from other careers into flower farming to manage expectations and reduce the risk of failure.Challenges of Flower Farming: The conversation highlights the various challenges faced by flower farmers, including weather, pests, and the unpredictability of nature.Community and Support: The episode underscores the importance of community and having a support system, especially in the often solitary world of flower farming.Social Media Insights: We discuss the unpredictable nature of social media success and the importance of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life online.Resilience and Personal Growth: Rozz shares her personal journey of growth, dealing with public scrutiny, and how her experiences have strengthened her resolve and confidence.Practical Tips for Flower Farmers: Practical advice on how to market flowers, the benefits of participating in local markets, and the importance of keeping the business simple and manageable.Ros Darlington Resource Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rozzdarlington/?hl=en-gb , https://www.instagram.com/rosalinesflowers/?hl=en-gb, https://www.instagram.com/theflowerpaddock/?hl=en-gbWebsite: https://www.theflowerpaddock.co.uk/ First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Welcome to The Cutflower Podcast!Hi everyone, Roz Chandler here, and welcome back to another inspiring episode of The Cutflower Podcast. I'm thrilled to have you join us today because we have a truly remarkable guest, Marcus Bean. Marcus is a private chef, presenter, hospitality consultant, author, and owner of a cookery school. Today, he shares his incredible journey from pig farming to culinary stardom.Summary:In this episode, Marcus Bean opens up about his unique path in the culinary world. Starting from his childhood growing up in pubs, Marcus ventured into pig farming before ultimately finding his true passion in the kitchen. Despite facing numerous challenges, his determination and love for food led him to win the UK version of Iron Chef and establish a successful career as a chef and media personality. Join us as we delve into Marcus's adventures, the lessons he’s learned, and his ongoing efforts to innovate in the food industry.Key Takeaways:Embrace Unexpected Opportunities: Marcus’s story shows the importance of seizing opportunities and adapting to life's unexpected turns.Persistence Pays Off: Despite the hurdles, Marcus’s dedication and hard work enabled him to achieve his culinary dreams.Continuous Learning: Marcus highlights the value of lifelong learning, whether through formal education, self-teaching, or hands-on experience.Passion for Food: His love for cooking is evident, demonstrating how passion can drive career success and personal fulfillment.Diverse Career Paths: From farming to sound engineering to becoming a chef, Marcus’s varied experiences have enriched his professional journey.Building Resilience: This episode underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in both personal and professional life.Networking and Mentorship: Marcus’s success is partly due to strong mentorship and networking within the industry.Balancing Multiple Roles: As a private chef, presenter, consultant, and author, Marcus shares insights on managing multiple roles and maintaining balance.Join us as we explore Marcus's fascinating journey and gain valuable insights to inspire us all to follow our passions and persevere through challenges.Connect with Marcus:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcusbeanchef/Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/marcusbean.  First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Join Roz Chandler, a biennial enthusiast, as she uncovers the allure of biennials, sharing tips on their lifecycle, top picks for your cutting patch, and expert advice for maintaining a thriving garden. Dive into the world of these fascinating flowers and unlock the secrets to a flourishing garden filled with nature's splendor.

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.If you've been following our Instagram this week, you might have noticed our battle with aphids. So, I thought it would be helpful to share some more details of biological control in gardening.Biological control involves the use of natural enemies to tackle garden pests. From introducing predators to employing pathogenic nematodes, we explore how these methods offer effective and eco-friendly pest management solutions.Key Takeaways:Benefits of Biological Control: Unlike chemical pesticides, biological controls leave no residues and cause no harm to plants. Once established, natural enemies can multiply and reduce pest populations to acceptable levels.Understanding Predators:Predatory and parasitoid biological controls, though not providing instant results, offer long-term solutions. Timing is crucial, as introducing them before heavy infestation ensures effectiveness.Seasonal Considerations: Glasshouse predators and parasites thrive in warm conditions, with ideal breeding temperatures between late March and September. Reintroduction may be necessary annually.Compatibility with Pesticides: Predators and parasites are sensitive to pesticides, necessitating their avoidance for several weeks before introducing biological controls. Fatty acid-based pesticides can be used with caution closer to introduction.Common Garden Pests and Solutions: Aphids, thrips, vine weevils, slugs, and red spider mites are prevalent nuisances. We explore natural remedies such as ladybirds, lacewings, predatory mites, and nematodes to combat these pests effectively.Practical Tips: Daily monitoring, manual removal of infested leaves, and encouraging natural predators like birds contribute to pest management efforts.To explore further, visit Ladybird Plant Care - www.ladybirdplantcare.co.uk, where Tessa can assist you in selecting the right biological controls for your garden.Embrace sustainable gardening practices with biological control methods, ensuring a thriving garden ecosystem without harmful chemicals. https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Welcome to The Cutflower Podcast! Today, we're immersing ourselves in the captivating realm of tulips. You might think the tulip season is over, but as we wrap up the season here in the United Kingdom, I'm already gearing up for next year's bloom.In this episode, I take you on a journey through the tulip fields of Holland, where I discovered the true essence of these mesmerizing flowers. From meeting suppliers to selecting the finest bulbs, every moment was filled with awe and inspiration.Join me as we delve into the fascinating life cycle of tulips, from bulb to bloom. Did you know that the Dutch have been growing tulips since the 17th century? With 90 percent of their bulbs exported annually, tulips truly hold a special place in the heart of Dutch horticulture.Explore the seven stages of tulip growth, from planting to regeneration, and uncover the secrets to cultivating these stunning flowers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, there's something magical about witnessing the beauty of tulips in full bloom.Discover the diverse varieties of tulips available, from single earlies to lily-flowered and parrot tulips. With over 3,000 different types to choose from, each with its own unique charm, there's a tulip for every taste and occasion.As we prepare for the upcoming season, I invite you to join our waitlist for our tulip catalogue and immerse yourself in the world of floral beauty. Whether you're looking to brighten up your garden or create stunning floral arrangements, tulips are sure to delight.Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Until next time, happy gardening!Key Takeaways:Tulips hold a rich history dating back to the 17th century, with the Dutch leading as the largest exporters of bulbs.The life cycle of tulips encompasses seven stages, from planting to regeneration, offering a fascinating journey of growth and renewal.Explore the diverse varieties of tulips available, from single earlies to parrot tulips, each boasting its own unique beauty.Join the waitlist for our tulip catalogue and discover the joy of cultivating these stunning flowers in your own garden. https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection 

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Welcome, to another blooming episode of the Cutflower Podcast! I'm absolutely delighted to share some exciting insights from my recent masterclass session on flower farming. If you're passionate about cultivating blooms and building a flourishing business in the floral world, you're in the right place. So, grab your favourite cuppa and let's dive into the wonderful world of flower farming together!Summary and Key Takeaways:In today's episode, I'm thrilled to give you a sneak peek into my transformative masterclass, the "Growth Club," where we nurture budding flower farmers and floral enthusiasts to reach their full potential. Here's what you can expect:Crafting a Comprehensive Business Strategy: We delve deep into the art of business strategy, from defining your brand to honing your marketing tactics. With my guidance, you'll develop a robust roadmap to success in the floral market.Mastering Social Media: In today's digital age, social media is a game-changer for floral businesses. I'll share my top tips and tricks for harnessing the power of platforms like Instagram to showcase your blooms and connect with your audience like never before.Planning Your Content Like a Pro: Content is king, and I'll show you how to rule the digital landscape with engaging and consistent communication. From blog posts to Instagram stories, you'll learn how to captivate your audience and grow your floral empire.Joining a Supportive Community: The Growth Club isn't just a course—it's a vibrant community of fellow flower enthusiasts. By joining us, you'll gain access to a supportive network of like-minded individuals, ready to cheer you on and share their wisdom every step of the way.Whether you're dreaming of starting your own flower farm or looking to take your existing business to new heights, the Growth Club is your ticket to success. So, what are you waiting for? Let's blossom together and unlock your flower farming potential!Cart Closes 30th April 2024https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/bloomingbusinesscourse2024  First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newslettersThe Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclubLots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers   Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming  - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874 Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection