The Cut Flower Podcast

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

This weeks podcast is a little different. Join Roz as she talks to Paula Marshall all about being a Flower Farmer. Paula first joined Roz's world on the Seed to Vase course in 2022 and has gone on to leave the corporate world behind her.

This is a Peer to Peer session which was held in Roz's membership group The Best Bunch. To find out more about the Best Bunch click here

If you would like to join the next Seed to Vase course in early 2027 and start your journey like Paula thenclick here to be the first to find out when it launches.

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz shares practical tips and insights on flower growing, marketing, and building a flower business, based on her extensive experience. This episode covers social media strategies, pricing, crop planning, and sustainable practices for flower growers.

Takeaways

• Social media content creation and repurposing
• Pricing strategies for wholesale flowers
• Building an email list for direct customer engagement
• Crop planning and space management for small gardens
• Growing and overwintering hardy annuals and perennials
• Using technology like ManyChat for automation
• Seed saving and propagation tips
• Creating habitat for beneficial insects

To join the Best Bunch membership and/or The Best Bunch Business membership click here

To get your free Start with Flowers guide click here

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz shares her expert insights on growing dahlias for cut flowers, from selecting varieties and planting to harvesting and winter storage. Perfect for flower farmers and enthusiasts aiming to maximize productivity and quality.

Key topics

Choosing dahlia varieties for cutting
Planting and caring for tubers
Supporting and pinching dahlias
Harvesting and post-harvest care
Overwintering dahlias and dividing tubers

Take a look at the Dahlia Catalogue here

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz shares practical business insights tailored for flower farmers and small business owners, emphasizing action, profitability, and customer focus. She debunks common myths and offers actionable advice to grow a sustainable, profitable business.

Key topics

• The importance of action over perfection
• Debunking myths about flower farming and business success
• Focusing on profitability rather than turnover
• The significance of follow-up in sales and marketing
• The value of testing ideas before full implementation
• Understanding your ideal customer and niche
• The importance of email marketing and customer relationships
• Why business change and pivoting are signs of growth

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz shares her comprehensive flower farmer blueprint, emphasizing the importance of building a sustainable business around your passion for flowers. She discusses the three essential hats every flower farmer must wear, the significance of knowing your market, pricing with confidence, and taking consistent action to achieve success.

Key topics

• The three hats of a flower farmer: grower, florist, business owner
• The importance of building your business around your desired lifestyle
• How to identify your hero crops for maximum profitability
• Pricing strategies that reflect value, not just costs
• Effective marketing and storytelling to attract customers
• The role of systems and knowing your numbers in farm success
• Setting a focused 90-day action plan for growth
• The importance of saying no to non-essential opportunities

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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, Roz interviews renowned florist Carol Peacock about her journey, sustainable floristry, and her experience at Sandringham. They explore the artistry, logistics, and eco-conscious practices shaping modern floristry.

key topics

• Journey into floristry and sustainability
• The importance of local and British flowers
• Innovative floral mechanics and materials
• Sandringham floral experience and design
• Building confidence and community in floristry

Links

British School of Sustainable Floristry website

Peacock and Wild website

Follow Carol on Instagram

Follow Roz on Instagram

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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, Roz shares insightful lessons from her 15 years of flower farming, focusing on common mistakes that prevent farmers from earning a proper wage. Whether you're a seasoned grower or starting out, discover practical advice to turn your flower farm into a sustainable and profitable venture.

Key topics covered:

• The reality of earning from flower farming versus perceptions of success
• Why pricing is crucial and how to value your product correctly
• The importance of including your own labor costs in your pricing
• Growing the right flowers for your market and avoiding over-complication
• Diversifying income streams for stability
• The significance of marketing and telling your story effectively
• Building a business that supports the life you want, not just being busy
• Lessons learned from mistakes that many flower farmers face
• How to implement these insights for long-term success

To join our UK retreat being held on the 8th and 9th August click here.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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 of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz Chandler speaks with Lee Connelly, the Children's Gardening Coach, about the profound impact of gardening on children and families. They explore Lee's journey from starting an allotment with his brother to becoming a prominent advocate for children's gardening. The conversation delves into the benefits of outdoor learning, the importance of connection and wellbeing, and the need for gardening to be integrated into education. Lee shares inspiring stories of how gardening has transformed lives and discusses the challenges of promoting gardening careers. The episode concludes with insights on balancing purpose and profit in the gardening industry, emphasizing the importance of creating memories through gardening.

Takeaways
Gardening is about more than just plants; it's about connection and wellbeing.
Children benefit greatly from outdoor learning and gardening experiences.
Getting children away from screens and into nature is crucial for their development.
Gardening can significantly improve communication between parents and children.
Schools have a responsibility to provide gardening opportunities for children.
Promoting gardening careers is essential for the future of the industry.
Resources and funding are major challenges for schools wanting to implement gardening programs.
Engaging children in gardening can spark lifelong passions and careers.
Creating memories through gardening can have lasting impacts on individuals.
Balancing purpose and profit is key for sustainable gardening businesses.

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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 engaging conversation, Roz Chandler speaks with Reese Follett, known for his Instagram presence as The Gardener's Adventure. They explore Reese's personal journey with gardening, how it has provided him with joy and purpose, especially during challenging times like his cancer journey. The discussion covers practical tips for beginners, the therapeutic benefits of gardening, and how to build a community through social media. Reese shares insights on what to grow, the importance of planning, and how gardening can be a rewarding experience beyond just cultivating plants.

Takeaways

• Gardening is about the process and learning, not perfection.
• Starting small with a few plants can prevent overwhelm.
• Gardening can be therapeutic and provide mental health benefits.
• Choosing what to grow based on personal preferences enhances enjoyment.
• Planning is crucial to avoid excess produce and waste.
• Gardening connects us with nature and the cycle of life.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing gardening experiences.
• Engaging content should be lighthearted and relatable.
• Gardening can serve as an anchor during tough times.
• It's important to focus on the joy and satisfaction gardening brings.

You can follow Reese on Instagram here

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Explore the art of floral preservation, the emotional significance of flowers, and the journey of Made Eco from a creative experiment to a meaningful business. Nooriya shares insights on techniques, memorable projects, and the impact of flowers as emotional keepsakes.

Key topics

• The origins of Made Eco and its evolution
• The process of floral preservation and art creation
• The emotional significance of flowers and memories
• Techniques and challenges in floral preservation
• Collaborations and memorable projects

Nooriya visited Field Gate Farm last summer, leaving with a selection of our summer blooms which she preserved and transformed into the delicate and ethereal art work Held in Bloom.

You can connect with Nooriya in the following places

https://madeeco.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/madeecouk/

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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 engaging interview, Milli Proust shares her journey from acting to floral artistry, her passion for seed breeding, and her innovative approach to sustainable flower farming. Discover practical tips on propagation, seed saving, and designing with seasonal flowers, along with insights into her upcoming projects and books.

Takeaways

• Milli's journey from acting to floral artistry
• Seed breeding and propagation techniques
• Designing sustainable and seasonal flower borders

You can purchase Milli's book here

Follow Milli on Instagram here or view her website here

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz Chandler shares practical tips on the easiest plants to propagate in your first year, focusing on seed saving, division, and cuttings. Perfect for beginners looking to build confidence and success in propagation.

Takeaways:

Easy plants to propagate: Cosmos, Calendula, Cornflowers, Sweet Peas
Propagation methods: seed saving, division, cuttings
Specific plants: mint, salvia, dahlias, pelargoniums, strawberries, perennials
Propagation tips for confidence and success
Roots to Shoots course for structured learning

Join our 5 month propagation course here

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz Chandler demystifies propagation, emphasising its simplicity and benefits. She covers core methods like seed, cuttings, and division, highlighting practical tips on timing, light, and moisture, and encourages beginners to start propagating for cost savings, confidence, and joy.

Takeaways

• Propagation is simple and accessible to everyone.
• Timing and understanding plant needs are key.
• You don't need fancy equipment to start.
• Propagation can save money and increase joy.

To join our masterclasses at 8pm BST on the 27th and 28th April click here

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz Chandler explores the transformative power of plant propagation, emphasizing its cost-saving, empowering, and sentimental benefits. She shares practical insights and encourages listeners to start propagating plants to gain independence, create legacies, and enjoy the process.

Takeaways

• The concept of propagation and its benefits
• Cost savings and independence in gardening
• Creating plant legacies and stories
• Getting started with propagation and overcoming confusion
• Practical steps to begin propagating

To join our Spring Propagation classes click here.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz Chandler shares expert tips for successful flower gardening in April, covering soil preparation, sowing, planting, staking, and maintenance to ensure a thriving cutting patch.

Takeaways

• Spend extra time on soil now to save weeks later.
• Monitor soil temperature and moisture for successful sowing.
• Sow seeds in small, staggered batches for continuous blooms.
• Hardening off plants prevents cold damage.
• Support sweet peas early to prevent flopping.
• Plan succession sowing based on frost dates.
• Maintain consistent watering and avoid overwatering.
• Regularly check for pests and keep space tidy.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Join Roz Chandler as she interviews Kate Turner, the Gardening Guru, about her journey from acting to sustainable gardening, the importance of peat-free compost, and adapting gardening practices to climate change. Discover practical tips for beginners and insights into resilient, eco-friendly gardening.

key topics

• Kate's journey from acting to gardening
• Importance of peat-free compost and environmental impact
• Adapting gardens to climate change and unpredictable weather
• Practical tips for seed starting and plant care
• Resilient plants and native species for changing climates

You can follow Kate on Instagram here and view her website here.

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Roz Chandler shares a comprehensive March checklist for flower growers, covering soil preparation, sowing, perennial management, support installation, and wildlife-friendly practices to ensure a successful growing season.

Takeaways

• Soil preparation and feeding
• Seed sowing under cover and direct sowing timing
• Perennial division and support installation
• Spring bulbs and wildlife-friendly planting
• Common mistakes and March checklist

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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 of the Cut Flower Podcast, host Roz Chandler speaks with Grace Alexander, a gardener and seed producer. Grace shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by gardens to her career in psychology and her passion for flower growing and seed production. The conversation explores the importance of adaptability in careers, the challenges of navigating money and worth in entrepreneurship, and the significance of finding balance and setting boundaries in life. Grace also discusses her plans for organic certification and her love for growing sweet peas, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment that comes from working with nature.

takeaways

• Grace's early memories of gardening shaped her passion for flowers.
• Joing together psychology and flower farming was a significant life change for Grace.
• The importance of adaptability in careers is crucial for success.
• Finding balance and setting boundaries is essential for personal well-being.
• Sweet peas are a favorite flower for both Grace and Roz.
• Organic certification for Grace's flower farm.
• Grace's journey highlights the value of community in the gardening world.
• The conversation underscores the importance of pursuing one's passions.
• Grace believes that every experience contributes to personal growth.

You can view Grace's website here and follow her on Instagram here

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January at 8pm UK time by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the journey of starting a cut flower business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's motivations and the potential for success in this field. She addresses common misconceptions about flower farming, the significance of planning and strategy, and the challenges faced by new flower farmers, including imposter syndrome. Rosalind encourages listeners to explore their passion for flowers and consider joining her upcoming master classes for further guidance.

Takeaways

• January is a crucial month for cut flower farmers.
• Starting a flower business can be a serious and fulfilling endeavor.
• Understanding your financial needs is essential for sustainability.
• Flowers are in demand for their local, seasonal, and sustainable qualities.
• Identifying your 'why' is key to success in flower farming.
• You don't need a large space to start a flower business.
• Imposter syndrome is common among new flower farmers.
• Community and education can significantly impact success.
• Transitioning into flower farming should be methodical and intentional.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January at 8pm UK time by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the healing power of gardening, particularly in relation to mental and physical health. She shares insights from her experiences and those of others who have turned to gardening during challenging times, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature and the emotional significance of flowers. The episode also invites listeners to join upcoming masterclasses focused on growing cut flowers in a supportive community environment.

Takeaways

• Gardening meets us where we are, providing comfort.
• The garden encourages presence without demands.
• Growth takes time; rest is part of the process.
• Gardening is a natural form of movement.
• Flowers help process emotions quietly.
• Gardening offers a non-judgmental space.
• Healing can occur through connection with nature.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots 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