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In this episode, we explore the incredible world of flower farming with Ros Darlington, the owner of Rosalind's Flowers and The Flower Paddock in Cheshire. Ros 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. Ros 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.

Ros also shares personal anecdotes about her experience on reality TV, 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 Takeaways

1. Transitioning to Flower Farming: Ros emphasises the importance of transitioning slowly from other careers into flower farming to manage expectations and reduce the risk of failure.
2. Challenges of Flower Farming: The conversation highlights the various challenges faced by flower farmers, including weather, pests, and the unpredictability of nature.
3. Community and Support: The episode underscores the importance of community and having a support system, especially in the often solitary world of flower farming.
4. 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.
5. Resilience and Personal Growth: Ros shares her personal journey of growth, dealing with public scrutiny, and how her experiences have strengthened her resolve and confidence.
6. 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-gb
Website:

• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• 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

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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:

1. Embrace Unexpected Opportunities: Marcus’s story shows the importance of seizing opportunities and adapting to life's unexpected turns.
2. Persistence Pays Off: Despite the hurdles, Marcus’s dedication and hard work enabled him to achieve his culinary dreams.
3. Continuous Learning: Marcus highlights the value of lifelong learning, whether through formal education, self-teaching, or hands-on experience.
4. Passion for Food: His love for cooking is evident, demonstrating how passion can drive career success and personal fulfillment.
5. Diverse Career Paths: From farming to sound engineering to becoming a chef, Marcus’s varied experiences have enriched his professional journey.
6. Building Resilience: This episode underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in both personal and professional life.
7. Networking and Mentorship: Marcus’s success is partly due to strong mentorship and networking within the industry.
8. 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.inst

New Catalogue Out Now, Oct 23,
https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order.

• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• 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

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In today's episode, we delve into the captivating world of biennials. Join me, Roz Chandler, as we explore these fascinating plants that add vibrancy to your cutting patch year after year.

Summary:

Discover the allure of biennials, those fleeting yet enchanting flowers that grace our gardens every other year. From Angelica to Delphiniums, we unravel the secrets of these blooms and learn how to cultivate them for a bountiful display of nature's splendor.

Key Takeaways:

1. Biennials 101: Understand the lifecycle of biennials and how to make the most of their brief yet impactful presence in your garden.
2. Top Picks for Your Cutting Patch: Explore a curated selection of biennials, from the majestic Foxgloves to the delicate Arctic Poppies, and learn how to sow and nurture them for optimal bloom.
3. Tips for Success: Discover expert tips for keeping your biennials thriving year after year, ensuring a continuous supply of blooms for your floral arrangements.

Embrace the beauty of biennials and unlock the secrets to a flourishing cutting patch. Join us on The Cutflower Podcast as we celebrate the wonders of nature and the joy of gardening together.

Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to join our active community on Facebook, The Cut Flower Collective, where you can share your gardening adventures and connect with fellow flower enthusiasts all the links are below!

• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• 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