Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz Chandler discusses the journey of transitioning into flower farming. She emphasizes that this transition is a gradual process that requires careful planning, understanding financial realities, and building a brand. Rosalind shares insights on the importance of time in farming, the necessity of trial and error, and the significance of marketing and business management. She encourages aspiring flower farmers to learn from others, build their story, and create strong foundations before fully committing to the profession. The episode concludes with a reminder that transitioning is a strategic choice that allows for growth and sustainability in the flower farming journey.

Takeaways

• Transitioning into flower farming is a journey, not a leap.
• Understanding your financial needs is the first step.
• Flower farming involves more than just growing flowers.
• Building a brand takes time and effort.
• Your story is a powerful tool in marketing.
• Healthy plants and soil take time to develop.
• Trial and error is essential in finding your niche.
• Marketing is a significant part of running a flower farm.
• Community support is vital for success in farming.

To be one of the first to find out about our new Career Change course which is launching early 2026 please 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 conversation, Roz discusses the challenges of maintaining a cutting garden in November, emphasizing the importance of preparation for the upcoming year.

She highlights the need for protection, planting, and overall garden maintenance during this damp and chilly month.

Takeaways

Preparation in November is crucial for next year's success.
Protecting plants is essential during colder months.
Planting in November can set the stage for spring blooms.
Garden maintenance should not be overlooked in November.
Enjoying the process can make gardening more rewarding.
Planning ahead is key to a successful cutting garden.

• 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.

This conversation delves into the multifaceted world of flower farming, emphasizing that it is not merely a passion for beauty but a complex business that requires careful management of various elements such as weather, sales, and marketing. The discussion highlights the importance of establishing a solid foundation for success and profitability in this field.

We would love you to join our Blooming Business Bootcamp which is taking place between the 17th to 20th November. To join 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 discusses the beauty of October in the cutting garden, emphasizing the importance of preparing for winter while still enjoying the last blooms of the season. She shares practical tips on caring for dahlias, sowing hardy annuals, planting spring bulbs, and planning for the next growing season. Roz encourages listeners to reflect on their gardening successes and challenges, and to dream about future planting plans.

Takeaways

• October is a beautiful month in the cutting garden.
• Keep cutting flowers to encourage more blooms.
• Be cautious with dahlias before the first frost.
• Lift or protect tender plants for winter.
• October is ideal for sowing hardy annuals.
• Now is the time to plant spring bulbs.
• Prepare and mulch your garden beds for winter.
• Dividing and moving perennials can enhance your garden.
• Tidy up tools and check seed stock for next year.
• October is a time for dreaming and planning for the future.

• 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, Jamie Butterworth shares his journey from a young gardener to a successful horticulturist and author. He discusses the inspiration behind his book 'What Grows Together', his unique approach to gardening, and the importance of plant combinations. Jamie also reflects on the challenges of running a gardening business, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasizes the significance of teamwork. He shares insights from his experience working with Monty Don at the Chelsea Flower Show and concludes with a fun quick-fire round about his favorite plants and gardening tools.

Takeaways
Jamie Butterworth is a passionate gardener and horticulturist.
His book 'What Grows Together' aims to simplify gardening for beginners.
Gardening can be daunting, but it should be enjoyable and accessible.
Plant combinations are key to creating beautiful gardens.
The importance of teamwork in running a successful gardening business.
Working with Monty Don was a dream come true for Jamie.
Chelsea Flower Show is the pinnacle of gardening events.
Plants do die, and it's important to learn from failures.
Gardening trends are influenced by social media and public interest.

You can follow Jamie on Instagram here

You can get your copy of his amazing new book 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.

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz delves into the world of seed propagation, sharing her insights on the importance of choosing the right seeds, planning your growing space, and understanding the germination process. She emphasizes the profitability of growing from seeds for flower farmers and provides practical tips to avoid common mistakes. Roz also discusses future learning opportunities for listeners interested in expanding their gardening skills.

Takeaways

• Seeds are affordable and can unlock an entire season of flowers.
• Choosing the right seeds is crucial for success in flower farming.
• Planning your growing space can significantly impact your yield.
• Investing in good compost is essential for seed germination.
• Common mistakes include sowing seeds too thickly and not labeling properly.
• Understanding your market helps in selecting the right flower varieties.
• Timing is key when it comes to planting seeds.
• Patience is important; some seeds take weeks to germinate.
• Flower farmers can achieve high returns by growing from seed.
• Propagation skills are valuable year-round.

Want to join our Plants for Free Masterclasses at 8pm on the 25th and 26th September. Join 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 introduces the concept of propagation, emphasising its importance for flower farmers and gardeners. She discusses the two main types of propagation: sexual and asexual, and shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the benefits of propagating plants. Roz encourages listeners to adopt a year-round approach to propagation and provides practical tips for success, including the importance of labeling and mastering one method at a time. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to research and plan their propagation efforts.

• Propagation is a way to create more plants for free.
• There are two main types of propagation: sexual and asexual.
• Propagation allows you to control your plant supply.
• It can save you money in the long run.
• Sustainability is a key benefit of propagation.
• Propagation should be done year-round, not just in spring.
• Labeling plants is crucial for successful propagation.
• Start with one method and master it before expanding.
• Propagation can diversify your income as a flower farmer.
• Every plant you propagate contributes to your legacy.

Join the Roots to Shoots masterclasses 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 interviews Lucy Butler, who shares her journey of combining gardening with mindfulness. Lucy discusses how her childhood interest in gardening evolved into a therapeutic practice that helped her cope with mental health challenges. She emphasizes the sensory experiences of gardening and offers practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into gardening practices. The conversation highlights the importance of nurturing both plants and oneself, and Lucy encourages listeners to embrace the process of gardening as a means of personal growth and well-being.

• Lucy Butler's journey into gardening began in childhood, influenced by her mother's passion for gardening.
• Gardening became a therapeutic outlet for Lucy during her struggles with mental health issues.
• Mindfulness in gardening can be achieved by focusing on sensory experiences and being present in the moment.
• Small, manageable gardening tasks can provide quick wins and boost mental well-being.
• Weeding can be a therapeutic activity, allowing for the release of worries and stress.
• Lucy emphasizes the importance of nurturing plants as a way to nurture oneself.
• Starting with seed sowing is a great way for beginners to practice mindful gardening.
• Gardening should not feel like a chore; it should be enjoyable and fulfilling.
• Lucy shares her personal experiences with mental health and the importance of recognizing triggers.
• The garden can serve as a reminder to not give up on oneself or one's passions.

You can find out more about Lucy 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