Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Flower Farming in New Zealand

In this conversation, I speak with Cat from Electric Blooms about her journey into flower farming, the challenges of balancing a corporate job with running a flower farm, and her commitment to regenerative practices. We discuss the importance of mental health, communityengagement, and the realities of flower farming, including irrigation challenges and sales strategies.

Cat shares valuable insights for aspiringflower farmers, emphasizing the need to understand market demands and the importance of sustainable practices.

Takeaways:
Cat transitioned from vegetable gardening to flower farming during COVID.

Mental health benefits are significant when working withflowers.

Balancing a corporate job and flower farming requiresefficient time management.

Regenerative practices are a priority for Cat's farmingmethods.

Irrigation challenges are common, especially in sandy soils.

Harvesting is done strategically to ensure continuousblooms.

Community engagement through social media and localmarketing is essential.

Learning from mistakes is part of the flower farmingjourney.

Understanding customer needs is crucial for pricing andsales.

Future plans include workshops and expanding the farm'sofferings.

Electric Blooms on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558019502548

https://www.instagram.com/electricblooms/

https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBlooms

Buy me a coffee (or a tea!!) at coff.ee/FlowerFarmersinNZ.

Every donation is appreciated.

Today we explore making water soluble calcium (WCa), an excellent additive to make for your farm or garden.There's a recipe and a "How To" to help you get started on your natural farming journey, even a bit of an explanation about what fertilisers do and why it is great to be able to create your own.

If you have questions or want more info, you can comment here on the podcast or contact us via Instagram at Flower Farming in NZ.

If you want to support our work, you can make a contribution of whatever size you are comfortable with by clicking on the Buy Me A Tea link here https://coff.ee/FlowerFarmersinNZ .

Credit for the music in this podcast goes to Happy Clappy Ukulele by Shane Ivers and Happy Days by Steven O’Brien.

Welcome to our Introduction episode of our podcast Flower Farming in NZ.

In this podcast we'll dig into the rhyme and reason of growing beautiful blooms here in Aotearoa.

In future episodes we’ll explore different aspects of growing flowers in New Zealand—from practical how-to guides and seasonal tips, to interviews with local growers, florists, suppliers, and flower lovers from across the country.

If you like the content of the podcast, it would be fabulous if you could donate via Buy Me A Coffee - this is a donation for our work not a physical coffee. Lucky that as I'm a tea drinker!! https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz

In this episode, Jo Robinson interviews Peter Brown, CEO of United Flower Growers (UFG), discussing the role of UFG in the New Zealand flower market.

They explore UFG's mission to provide a fair marketplace for flower growers and buyers, the importance of technology in auction services, and the innovations being introduced to enhance trading systems.

The conversation also addresses barriers faced by growers, the significance of personal relationships in the industry, and advice for those looking to engage with UFG.

Takeaways

• UFG is New Zealand's largest flower broker, connecting growers and buyers.

• The mission of UFG is to provide a fair and effective marketplace.

• Technology plays a crucial role in modernizing auction services.

• Innovations like future bidding and buy now options enhance buyer experience.

• Geographical location can be a barrier for some growers.

• UFG offers support and guidance for new growers entering the auction system.

• Building personal relationships is key in the flower industry.

• Buyers and sellers are equally important in the marketplace.

• Feedback from growers is welcomed to improve UFG services.

• Regular participation in auctions helps establish a grower's brand.

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Keywords #United Flower Growers #UFG #flower farming #New Zealand flowers, #auction services # flower growers #florists #technology #flower market #logistics, #flower industry

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to UFG and Its Mission

02:14 Who does UFG mainly supply?

03:05 Proud of the way that UFG connects to those in the industry.

03:21 UFG's Market Position and Business Model

03:37 How does UFG define its position as a business?

04:31 Innovations in Auction Services

06:53 Challenges and Solutions for Growers

09:37 Enhancing Buyer-Grower Connections

11:40 Standards and Support for Growers

12:50 Biggest barrier to sending product to auction?

15:03 Second Grades

16:39 Building Relationships with Growers

19:32 The Advantages of Being a Large Organization

20:32 Navigating Buyer and Seller Accounts

22:06 Timing for Account Setup

22:32 Logistics and Freight Solutions

24:59 Balancing Buyer and Seller Needs

26:12 Empowering Growers to Focus on Production

28:15 Future Innovations at UFG

30:09 Final Advice for Growers

31:35 The Role of UFG in the Flower Industry

Join us as Cassie Heath of Flourish Events shares her journey from dairy farming to sustainable floristry.

Discover her innovative eco-friendly practices, the challenges of growing flowers in New Zealand's highest wind zone, and her creative solutions for minimizing waste in floral arrangements.

Keywords: sustainable floristry, flower farming, local sourcing, floristry challenges, educating clients, community building, innovative practices, wedding floristry, eco-friendly practices, floral design

Summary In this conversation, Jo and Cassie Heath of Flourish Events explore the world of sustainable floristry, discussing the journey of a florist who grows her own flowers, the challenges faced in the industry, and the importance of sourcing locally.

Cassie shares her experiences in educating clients about sustainability, the innovations she has implemented in her flower farming, and the significance of community in her business. The discussion highlights the balance between creativity and sustainability in floristry, as well as the rewarding experiences that come from successful events.

Takeaways

Sustainable floristry is about making conscious choices.

Growing your own flowers can enhance creativity and reduce waste.

Community support is vital for local florists.

Educating clients on sustainability can lead to better practices.

Social media influences client expectations and business operations.

Starting small with sustainable practices can lead to significant changes.

Innovative practices in flower farming can improve efficiency.

Building relationships with local growers is essential.

Celebrating successful sustainable events can inspire others.

Finding joy in the process of floristry is key to success.

Chapters

00:00 Flower Farming in NZ Podcast

00:54 Chatting with Cassie from Flourish Events.

03:11 Sustainable Practices in Floristry

05:02 Innovative Solutions for Floral Arrangements

06:46 Challenges of Sustainable Floristry

08:49 Local Sourcing and Seasonal Constraints

10:38 Educating Clients on Sustainability

11:10 Biggest challenges of running a sustainable floristry

12:13 Success Stories in Sustainable Events

14:21 Advice for Aspiring Sustainable Florists

20:39 From Archways to Floral Innovations

21:40 If you could grow only one flower.

23:32 Navigating Client Relationships

24:43 Recharging After Events

26:30 Future Plans and Sustainable Practices

Connect with Cassie:

Website: flourishevents.co.nz

Instagram: FlourishEvents Limited

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:  

1) Advertising in an episode       

2) Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can       

3) Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for  some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

In this episode, we dive into the world of biochar with Matt from Carbon Options. Discover how biochar, made from local forestry waste, enriches soil and sequesters carbon, offering a sustainable solution for farmers.

Learn about the unique process of creating biochar, its role in improving soil health, and its impact on climate resilience.

Join us to explore the benefits of biochar for flower farmers.

Guest: Matt Welton, the co-founder of Carbon Options, an off-grid biochar operation in the  Akatarawa Valley. Follow Carbon Options on Facebook for updates and inquiries.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577629602758

Keywords:

biochar, carbon options, flower farmers, soil health, climate resilience, organic farming, nutrient retention, carbon sequestration, environmental benefits, sustainability

Biochar is made from organic materials through pyrolysis.

Carbon Options focuses on using local, clean feedstock for biochar production.

Biochar improves soil health by enhancing nutrient retention and moisture holding capacity.

Flower farmers can benefit from using biochar to improve crop yields and soil quality.

The process of creating biochar can sequester carbon for hundreds of years.

Feedback from farmers is crucial for improving biochar products.

Biochar can be used in compost to enhance its effectiveness.

Innovations in biochar applications are being explored, including spill kits and fire starters.

Do you enjoy listening or watching the Podcast?

If you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·            Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

·            Advertising your products or services in an episode

·            Sponsoring an episode or a season

Don't miss out on future episodes—subscribe now and join us in exploring all aspects of flower farming in New Zealand.

Credit for music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

Keywords

flower farming, horticulture, business, sustainability,entrepreneurship, flowers, farming advice, flower sales, crop planning, localflowers

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZFlower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·         Sponsoring an episode or a season or by

·         Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Summary

In this conversation, Jo Robinson interviews Lisa from FloraFlowers, who shares her journey into flower farming, her unique growing setup, and the various aspects of her business.

Lisa discusses her background in horticulture, the challenges of running a flower farm, and her approach to sustainability.

She also highlights the importance of learning through experience, the significance of pricing strategies, and her future plans for the business. The conversation emphasizes the balance between work and personal life, and the joy that flowers bring to both the grower and the community.

Takeaways

Lisa's journey into flower farming was accidental but fulfilling.

She emphasizes the importance of learning on the job.

Sustainability is a key focus in her farming practices.

Lisa has diversified her business with side ventures like My Patch.

She sells flowers through a florist and a roadside stall.

Pricing is based on market understanding and simplicity.

Flower farming is a year-round commitment with challenges.

Starting small and keeping it simple is crucial for newfarmers.

Lisa is excited about using her unique dahlia varieties.

Success in flower farming is about personal fulfilment and flexibility.

Sound bites

"I never set out to become a flower farmer."

"Start small, keep it simple."

"Sunflowers are my favorite to grow."

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Lisa and Flora Flowers

03:00 The Journey to Flower Farming

04:53 Horticultural Background and Training

06:31 Unique Growing Setup and Challenges

09:07 Diversifying the Business: My Patch and Seedling Brokerage

11:33 Sales Channels and Strategies

13:43 Pricing and Market Dynamics

15:48 Growing Practices and Sustainability

18:24 Advice for New Flower Farmers

20:20 Reflections on Success and Challenges

22:33 Future Plans and Innovations

Keywords

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, flower wholesaling, flowersourcing, floristry, flower trends, sustainable flowers, flower growers, flowermarket, flower quality control

Summary

In this conversation, Jo Robinson interviews Lissie, the Supply Manager for Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, discussing the intricacies of the flower wholesaling industry. Lissie shares insights on sourcing flowers, working with growers, quality control, market trends, and the importance of building relationships within the industry. The discussion also touches on sustainability, customer engagement, and the evolving demands of flower buyers.

Lissie emphasizes the significance of understanding pricing structures and the need for growers to communicate effectively with wholesalers to ensure a successful partnership.

Takeaways

 Lissie is a qualified florist with over five years in the industry.

Fresh Cut Flowers focuses on a streamlined wholesale approach.

The company is passionate about supporting local growers.

Quality control is a shared responsibility between growers and wholesalers.

Communication with growers is essential for successful sales.

Understanding market trends helps in planning crops effectively.

Foliage and shrubs are important for flower farmers to consider.

Sustainability is a growing concern in the flower industry.

Shipping flowers does not always require a cool chain.

Building relationships is key to success in the flower market.

Titles

 Blooming Business: Insights from Fresh Cut Flowers

The Art of Flower Wholesaling with Lissie

Sound bites

"We are passionate about our growers."

"You can't keep selling at a loss."

"It's all about relationships."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

00:58 The Journey of Fresh Cut: History and Evolution

03:21 Understanding Flower Sourcing and Popular Trends

05:22 Selling to Fresh Cut: A Grower's Guide

07:50 Quality Control and Grading in Flower Production

10:12 Essential Crops for New Growers

12:08 Long-Term Planning for Flower Farming

14:18 Commercial vs. Garden Flowers: What to Consider

17:03 Shipping and Handling of Flowers

22:08 Trade Accounts and Wholesale Operations

23:01 Sustainability in Packaging

24:53 Trends in Flower Demand

27:24 Building Relationships with Growers

29:43 Pricing and Market Dynamics

31:59 Personal Insights and Experiences

36:29 Community Engagement and Support

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

Address: 26B Kerwyn Avenue, East Tamaki,Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: 09-918-5330

Website: www.wholesaleflowers.nz

Insta: @freshcutflowerwholesalers

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·         Sponsoring an episode or a season of episodes or by

·         Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz

In this episode, Jo interviews Sarah Rutherford, a flower farmer from Wanaka, New Zealand who’s business is called The Joy Farmer.

Jo and Sarah chat about Sarah’s journey into flower farming, the challenges of growing flowers in Central Otago’s unique climate, and the evolution of her business from being part of a collective to a more experience-based model.

Sarah shares insights on managing her flower farm, the importance of community support, and her future plans for workshops and engaging with customers.

Takeaways

Sarah started her flower farm during the first COVID lockdown in 2020.

The name ‘Joy Farmer’ was initially a fictitious business name.

Sarah’s farm is based in Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand.

She emphasizes the importance of community support in her business.

Sarah is transitioning from selling via a collective to a more experience-based model.

She plans to offer workshops to engage customers with flower farming and connecting with nature.

Managing time and balancing life demands are key challenges for Sarah.

Sarah values the freedom her business provides in her life.

She highlights the misconceptions about flower farming’s visual appeal.

Sarah’s favourite season is spring due to its energy and new growth.

Sound bites

• Joy Farmer was a fictitious name.
• Started during the COVID lockdown.
• Community support is crucial.
• Transitioning to an experience-based model.
• Workshops to engage customers.
• Managing time is a key challenge.
• Freedom is what success looks like.
• Spring is Sarah’s favourite season.
• Energy and new growth in spring.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Sarah Rutherford

00:03:00 Starting the Flower Farm

00:09:00 Challenges in Central Otago

00:15:00 Community and Business Evolution

00:21:00 Future Plans and Workshops

00:27:00 Reflections and Insights

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#flower farming

#Central Otago,

#Sarah Rutherford

# Joy Farmer

#local community support

#workshops,

# climate challenges

#perennial plants

#flower growing

#flower business

#floral collective

# flower selection

#gardening,

#New Zealand flowers.

In this episode, Jo Robinson hosts Amber Carpenter andGerard Vaughan to discuss the Farmstrong program, focusing on the Five Steps to Well-being.

They explore how these steps can enhance mental and physical health for farmers, sharing personal stories and practical insights.

They discuss the importance of self-care, community support, and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining focus in the demanding world of farming.

Amber shares her personal journey from the fashion industryto dairy farming, highlighting the challenges and rewards of her transition.

Gerard designed and set up Farmstrong with the help of FMG, the Mental Health Foundation and Movember in 2015 to encourage farmers to be proactive about their wellbeing.

The conversation in this episode emphasizes the need forfarmers to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing to ensure both personal and business success.

https://farmstrong.co.nz

Takeaways

Farmstrong promotes mental wellbeing for farmers andgrowers.

Self-care is essential for effective farming.

Community support plays a crucial role in mental health.

Listening skills are vital for effective communication.

Farmers are their own biggest asset and must prioritizetheir health – both mental and physical.

Control the controllable aspects of farming life.

Building small, regular habits can enhance wellbeing.

It's okay to not have everything figured out.

Taking breaks can lead to increased productivity.

Engaging with the community fosters connection and support.

Connect with OurSponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, ifyou like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

·        Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit:Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

Chapters

00:00  FarmStrong

01:27 Introduction to Farmstrong and its purpose

05:51 Amber's Journey from Fashion to Farming

09:02 The Importance of Mental Health in Farming

14:05 Recognizing Personal Wellbeing as a Business Asset

19:09 Strategies for Maintaining Focus and Balance

21:45 Navigating Life's Challenges Together

24:12 Balancing Work and Family Life

27:35 The Importance of Rest and Recovery

29:09 Investing in Family Time

32:04 Controlling the Controllables

33:30 Embracing Humanity in Farming Life

Keywords

#Flower farming in NZ

#Flower farming

#Farmstrong

#Live Well Farm Well

#Mental health

#Wellbeing

#Stress management

#Support systems

#Resilience

#Horticulture Floriculture

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

Mental Health Matters: The FarmstrongApproach

Welcome to our latest episode of Flower Farmingin New Zealand.

In this conversation, Jo delves into the world offlower farming with Yvonne Baker from "Garden on the Hill."

From her roots and training in England to her thriving farmin New Zealand, Yvonne shares her experiences, challenges, and the joys of nurturing a vibrant flower farm.

Jo and Yvonne explore Yvonne's love for sweet peas and hermeticulous approach to seed harvesting while at the same time protecting the balance between family life and farming responsibilities.

Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or curious about theworld of flower farming, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Chapters:

Introduction to Yvonne Baker: Meet Yvonne and learn abouther background in horticulture.

Overcoming Farming Challenges : Discover how Yvonne manages the unique challenges of farming on a windy hill.

Working with Dr. Keith Hammett: Insights into Yvonne's workwith the renowned plant breeder.

The Importance of a Business Plan: Understand why a solidbusiness plan is crucial for farming success.

Connect with Yvonne: https://gardenonthehill.co.nz

#Flowerfarming 

#growingsweetpeas 

#sweetpeaseeds

#flowerfarmingbusinessplan #horticulturaltraining

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to get up to date with our content.

We’d love it if you shared your thoughts in the commentsbelow.

Even better, tell us what you’d like to learn more about!

You can connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz or email admin@ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·        Sponsoring an episode or a season

or you can

·        Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit:Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

In this inspiring episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson welcomes event florist Michele Coomey for a rich conversation on the artistry and logistics of modern floristry.

From her early days in retail to crafting large-scale floral installations, Michele shares how intuition, experience, and collaboration shape her work.

Together, Jo and Michele explore the delicate balance between creativity and practicality, the magic of seasonal blooms, and the evolving expectations of wedding clients.

Key Takeaways

• Michele reflects on her transition from retail to event floristry and the lessons learned.

• Balancing artistic vision with client expectations is a core challenge in the floral industry.

• Seasonal flowers bring authenticity and charm to wedding arrangements.

• International events pose logistical hurdles, especially around flower sourcing

• A skilled stylist can elevate floral work from beautiful to unforgettable.

• Jo champions the use of local and seasonal flowers for sustainable, meaningful designs.

• Michele values deep relationships with local growers for access to unique varieties.

• Workshops and shared knowledge strengthen the floral community.

• Michele’s approach blends intuition with hands-on experience, creating abundant designs that resonate.

Sound Bites

• “Creating an abundance of blooms.”

• “Balancing creativity and expectations.”

• “Seasonal blooms for weddings.”

• “From retail to event floristry.”

• “Floral trends and innovations.”

• “Local growers in floristry.”

• “International floral challenges.”

• “Floral community and workshops.”

• “Michele Coomey's floral philosophy.”

Chapters

• 00:00:00 – Introduction: Jo Robinson & Michele Coomey

• 00:05:00 – Michele’s Journey in Floristry

• 00:10:00 – Balancing Creativity and Practicality

• 00:15:00 – The Power of Seasonal and Local Flowers

• 00:20:00 – Navigating International Floral Logistics

• 00:25:00 – Building Community Through Workshops

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season

Or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#abundantblooms

#floristry

#wedding flowers

#creativity

#seasonal blooms

#local growers

#floral community

#event styling

In this episode of "Flower Farming in New Zealand," Jo Robinson welcomes Georgie Newbery of Common Farm Flowers.

Georgie is a renowned flower farmer, a florist, an educator, and an author.

Jo & Georgie discuss the importance of community in flower farming, the challenges and joys of growing flowers sustainably, and the impact of climate change on farming practices. Georgie shares her experiences at the Chelsea Flower Show and her passion for teaching and supporting small-scale flower farmers. The conversation highlights the value of local, sustainable flower farming and the importance of collaboration and innovation in the industry.

Takeaways

• Community is vital in flower farming, providing support and shared knowledge.

• Sustainable practices in flower farming are essential for environmental health.

• The Chelsea Flower Show is a prestigious event showcasing innovative floristry.

• Teaching and sharing knowledge, strengthens the flower farming community.

• Local flower farming supports the economy and reduces environmental impact.

• Climate change presents challenges and opportunities for flower farmers.

• Collaboration among flower farmers enhances resource sharing and innovation.

• Georgie Newbery emphasizes the importance of using local materials in floristry.

• The demand for locally grown flowers is increasing in urban markets.

• Flower farming can be a fulfilling and impactful career choice.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction to Georgie Newbery

• 00:03:00 The Importance of Community

• 00:09:00 Sustainable Flower Farming

• 00:15:00 Chelsea Flower Show Experience

• 00:21:00 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge

• 00:27:00 Challenges of Climate Change

• 00:33:00 Collaboration in the Industry

• 00:39:00 The Future of Flower Farming

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#flower farming,

#sustainable horticulture

#Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal 2025

#community connections

#local rural economy

#floristry

#small business education

#flower farmers collaboration

In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson interviews Dr. Keith Hammett, a renowned plant breeder known for his work with dahlias.

The conversation explores Keith's journey into breeding plants, his inspirations, and the intricate processes involved in creating new varieties.

Dr Keith shares insights into the challenges of breeding, the importance of genetic variability, and the aesthetic considerations that influence his work. The discussion also touches on the significance of protecting breeder rights, the role of marketers and retailers, and the joy that comes from connecting with flower farmers and enthusiasts.

Dr Keith's passion for horticulture and dedication to his craft shine through as he reflects on his experiences and the impact of his work on the flower industry.

Bullet Points:

• Breeding requires a long-term vision, often spanning decades.

• Dahlias are unique due to their genetic variability and breeding challenges.

• The breeding process involves defining clear goals and selecting appropriate parent plants.

• Aesthetics play a crucial role in the breeding of dahlias.

• Maintaining breeding stock is essential for successful plant breeding.

• The distillation process helps refine breeding selections over time.

• Breeders need to protect their rights to recoup their investments.

• Marketers and retailers are vital for bringing new varieties to market.

• The joy of breeding comes from seeing the happiness it brings to others.

• Naming new breeds can be both fun and challenging.

The Important Bits!!

• "You have to think in decades."

• "The magic has never left me."

• "I have a little white book."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Keith Hammett

02:48 The Journey into Dahlia Breeding

07:29 Breeding Goals and Inspirations

09:32 Understanding the Breeding Process

12:20 The Role of Exhibitors in Breeding

16:27 Genetic Variability in Dahlias

19:02 The Aesthetic of Dahlia Breeding

20:12 Favorite Dahlias and Surprises in Breeding

22:40 Challenges in Maintaining Breeding Lines

23:32 The Art of Plant Breeding

25:58 Navigating Plant Patents and Breeder Rights

29:37 The Role of Marketers in Plant Breeding

31:58 Understanding Plant Health and Breeding Stock

35:22 Seed Storage and Maintenance

36:50 The Impact of DNA Sampling in Breeding

40:31 The Importance of Collaboration in Plant Breeding

40:52 The Joy of Connecting Through Flowers

42:40 Naming New Breeds: A Creative Challenge

Info for all show notes:

Connect with Our Sponsors:(UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, ifyou like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you cansupport our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

·        Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit:Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#Dahlia breeding

#plant breeding#horticulture

#flower farming

#genetic variability

#breeding goals

#plant variety rights

#flower aesthetics

#flower farmers

#plant health

In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson welcomes Marisa from Urban Floral Farmlet.

They discuss Marisa's journey from a corporate career to flower farming, the challenges of urban farming, and the impact of COVID-19 on her business.

Marisa shares insights on growing flowers in limited spaces, the importance of community, and her experiences with various growing and floristry courses. The conversation also touches on the significance of local support and the joy flowers bring to people's lives.

Takeaways

• Marisa transitioned from a corporate career to flower farming during COVID-19.

• Urban farming presents unique challenges and opportunities.

• Community support is vital for local businesses.

• Floristry courses offer valuable insights but may not suit everyone.

• COVID-19 prompted a shift towards local and sustainable practices.

• Marisa values the joy flowers bring to people's lives.

• Growing flowers in urban spaces requires creativity and adaptability.

• The Floret Scholarship provided Marisa with valuable resources.

• Marisa emphasizes the importance of work-life balance.

• Local collaborations enhance business resilience.

Marisa's words of wisdom:

Growing flowers in the city is unique.

Flowers bring joy to people's lives.

Community support is vital

Urban farming requires creativity.

Local collaborations are key.

Work-life balance is crucial.

The Floret Scholarship was invaluable.

Local businesses need community support.

Chapters

• 02:04 Impact of COVID-19

• 06:36 Urban Farming Challenges

• 13:47 Introduction and Marisa's Background

• 17:19 Floristry Courses and Insights

• 28:51 Community and Local Support

• 43:47 Joy and Passion for Flowers

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

• · Advertising in an episode

• · Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

• · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#flowerfarming

#urbanflowerfarming

#NewZealandFlowerFarmers

#localbusiness

#UrbanFloralFarmlet

#JoRobinson

In this conversation, Jo Robinson chats with Sandy, the marketing manager at Egmont Seeds. They talk about her role, the history of Egmont Seeds, and the challenges and joys of working in the seed industry.

Sandy shares insights into the company's operations, including sourcing seeds globally, ensuring seed is high quality, and the importance of understanding local growing conditions. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on seed variety availability, the role of Egmont Seeds in the local flower farming community, and Sandy's personal experiences and preferences in gardening.

Takeaways:

• Sandy is the marketing manager at Egmont Seeds, focusing on customer needs and sourcing new plant materials.

• Egmont Seeds started with John McCullough's passion for seeds, leading to the creation of New Zealand's largest seed company.

• The company imports seeds globally and supplies retail businesses, nurseries, and commercial flower growers.

• Sandy's horticultural background enriches her role, allowing her to contribute to both marketing and hands-on tasks in the business.

• Egmont Seeds has expanded into growing sweet peas on a large scale, overcoming global supply challenges.

• The company emphasizes the importance of understanding local growing conditions for successful seed cultivation.

• Sandy shares personal gardening tips, including the use of heat mats for better germination and choosing plants based on personal preference.

• Egmont Seeds is committed to sustainability, trialling compostable packaging while ensuring seed freshness.

• The conversation highlights the difference between growing from seed and breeding, emphasizing the value of true breeding efforts.

• Sandy encourages growers to choose seeds based on personal taste and local conditions for the best results.

Sound Bites:

• Egmont Seeds is New Zealand's largest seed company.

• We import seeds from all over the world.

• Understanding local growing conditions is key.

• Sweet peas are now a major focus for us.

• Sustainability is important, but freshness is key.

• Choose seeds based on what you love to grow.

• Breeding and growing from seed are not the same.

• Heat mats can improve germination rates.

• Our seeds are in gardens all over New Zealand.

• Gardening is my happy place.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Egmont Seeds and Sandy's Role

02:41 The History and Growth of Egmont Seeds

05:10 Sandy's Horticultural Background and Personal Gardening

07:45 The Sweet Pea Project and Its Expansion

10:34 Sourcing and Importing Seeds Globally

13:10 Ensuring Seed Quality and Germination Rates

16:06 Choosing Varieties for New Zealand Conditions

18:39 Trialling New Varieties and Future Prospects

24:54 Common Seed Starting Mistakes

27:32 Tips for Successful Germination

29:13 Recommended Flower Varieties for Beginners

31:53 Understanding Seed Sourcing and Packaging

36:12 Sustainability in Seed Production

38:57 The Importance of Local Seed Production

42:57 Trends in Seed Demand

45:25 Egmont's Role in the Flower Farming Community

46:16 Personal Favourites in Flower Growing

48:50 Advice for New Seed Sourcing

50:37 Closing Thoughts and Support

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

#Egmont Seeds,

#seedindustry,

#horticulture,

#seed sourcing,

#seed quality,

#local growing conditions

Mastering the Greenhouse Environment

Explore the intricacies of horticultural infrastructure and climate-adapted gardening in this conversation with Bruce Thurlow, a seasoned educator and horticulturist from Otago Polytechnic. Bruce shares practical insights on greenhouse management, greenhouse infrastructure, pest control and tools for growing sustainably amid changing climates.

In this episode:

The different greenhouse types and their environmental control systems, from mist houses to heated benches

The significance of environment manipulation—water, airflow, and light control—in plant growth

How to leverage technology like Wi-Fi enabled controllers for irrigation and germination chambers

The challenges and solutions for pest management in greenhouses, emphasising visual inspections

The importance of understanding plant-specific needs

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and Bruce's background

04:00 - Greenhouse infrastructure and types

08:00 - Environmental control in greenhouses

12:00 - Pest management strategies

16:00 - Transitioning to dry gardens

20:00 - Principles of dry garden design

24:00 - Water management and irrigation setup

28:00 - Soil and growing media choices

32:00 - Propagation techniques and timing

36:00 - Conclusion and final thoughts

Resources & Links:

• Otago Polytechnic

• Inkbird Temperature Controllers

This episode demonstrates that sustainable, climate-adapted horticulture relies on a combination of infrastructure, observation, and ecological understanding. When managing high-tech greenhouses the core principle remains: right plant, right place, right environment.

Connect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers. Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

Season 3 Episode 1: In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, Jo Robinson chats with Mike Foster from Huhu Gardens in Huntly, a grower who has built a successful flower business by combining practical horticulture knowledge with smart market decisions.

Mike shares his journey from nursery work and dairy farming to commercial flower farming, explains how his unique microclimate influences what he grows, and dives deep into practical production strategies for ranunculus, anemones, hydrangeas, and marigolds.

The conversation covers everything from greenhouse design and plant spacing to selling through wholesalers, giving listeners real-world insights into running a profitable flower farm in New Zealand.

Whether you're a new grower, an experienced flower farmer, or simply love learning about how flowers are produced, this episode is packed with valuable advice.

In This Episode Jo and Mike discuss:

How Huhu Gardens got its memorable name

Mike’s journey from nursery growing to milking 800 cows to running a flower farm

Transitioning from export hydrangeas to selling foliage locally

Why ranunculus and anemones are valuable early-season crops

The tunnel house setup that produces longer, high-quality stems

Growing marigolds for the wholesale market

Selling flowers through wholesalers vs auctions

Managing quality control and reputation in the flower market

Why foliage can sometimes be more profitable than flowers

Growing in a warm Huntly microclimate (with bananas and citrus!)

The importance of volume, consistency, and market demand

Why new flower farmers should talk to wholesalers before planting

Lessons learned from 20+ years in the flower industry

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:02 Meet Mike Foster from Huhu Gardens

02:50 From nursery work to dairy farming to flower farming

04:00 Early crops: callas, statice, and hydrangeas

05:00 Growing ranunculus and anemones in tunnels

07:00 Plant spacing and production volumes

10:00 Tunnel house design and microclimate mesh

13:00 Seasonal crop schedule at Huhu Gardens

15:00 Growing the Coco series marigolds

16:40 Hydrangeas: export markets and shifting to foliage

19:00 Selling through wholesalers vs auctions

21:00 Maintaining quality and grower reputation

24:00 Hydrangea production and shade growing

28:00 Chiller management and flower storage

30:00 Rainfall and climate differences across NZ

33:00 Summer weather challenges and storms

36:00 Growing gypsophila and amaranthus

40:00 Ranunculus production tips and disease management

44:00 Using shade cloth in tunnels

46:00 Advice for new flower farmers

50:00 Lessons from decades in flower farming

54:00 Growing lavender and enjoying the farm

About the Podcast

Flower Farming in New Zealand explores the realities of growing flowers commercially across New Zealand’s diverse climates. Hosted by Jo Robinson, the podcast features growers, florists, and industry experts sharing practical advice and real experiences.

________________________________________

🌷 Follow & Listen

If you enjoy the episode:

Follow the podcast on Spotify

Subscribe on YouTube

Share with another flower grower

Connect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers.

Follow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Key words:

#flowerfarminginNZ

#nzflowergrowers

#nzflorists

#sustainablefloristry

#sustainableflowerfarming

In this episode of Flower Farming in NZ, Jo sits down with Melanie, a New Zealand flower farmer, florist, and entrepreneur, to explore how a love of gardening grew into multiple successful flower-based businesses.

Melanie shares her journey from home gardener to running a commercial flower farm, florist shop, retail stores, and an online gift box business, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities of scaling in the flower industry.

Together, Jo and Melanie discuss the challenges and rewards of flower farming in New Zealand, including working with a unique climate and landscape, plant selection for cut flower production, and the importance of growing flowers that are both beautiful and commercially viable.

Drawing on her scientific background and years of hands-on experience, Melanie explains how she approaches flower selection, harvest timing, and sustainability, and why eco-friendly growing practices are essential to the future of floristry.

The conversation also highlights Melanie’s strong commitment to community engagement, local charities, and events — and the powerful role flowers play in bringing joy, connection, and meaning to people’s lives.

This episode is ideal for:

• Flower farmers and growers

• Florists and floral designers

• Anyone interested in sustainable floristry, flower business models, or growing flowers for picking

Takeaways

• Explore sustainable practices in flower farming.

• Innovative techniques for eco-friendly floristry.

• The joy of sharing flowers with the community.

• Challenges and rewards of running a flower farm.

• Importance of eco-friendly practices in floristry.

• Future trends in the floristry industry.

• Creative solutions for floral arrangements.

• Engaging the community through flowers.

• Balancing business and passion in floristry.

• Insights into New Zealand's floral industry

Chapters

• 00:00:13 Introduction to Flower Farming

• 00:22:50 Innovative Oasis Alternatives

• 00:28:26 Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement

• 00:38:18 Future Trends and Challenges in Floristry

flower farming

sustainable practices

eco-friendly floristry

community engagement

innovative techniques

New Zealand flowers

floral arrangements

gardening

horticulture

floristry business

Community champions

Fundraising

Joy of flowers

cut flower production

Healthy flowers begin with healthy soil—but what does that really mean?

In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, I sit down with Nicky from Crop to explore the fascinating world beneath our feet. We discuss how soil biology influences plant health, why understanding your soil test is so important, and how microbes, fungi, pH and organic matter all work together to produce stronger, healthier flowers.

Nicky also shares practical ways flower farmers can improve soil naturally, including the role of biochar, avoiding common phosphorus mistakes, and building resilient soils that support productive crops year after year.

Whether you're growing flowers commercially or simply want healthier plants in your garden, this episode will change the way you think about soil. It's all about healthy soil for flower farming.

Easy Ways to Support Our Work!

1) Subscribe

Subscribe to Flower Farming in New Zealand for practical conversations with growers, florists and industry experts from across New Zealand.

2) Share

If this episode helped you, please share it with another grower. Every recommendation helps strengthen New Zealand's flower farming community.

3) Donate

If you'd like to support the podcast, please consider making a donation. Your support helps us continue sharing practical knowledge and connecting New Zealand's flower industry. The easiest way to donate is to Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠⁠

4) Comments and Likes

Comments and Likes really help the algorithm find us so that other flower farmers and growers can enjoy our content.

Resources discussed in this episode:Crop: Understanding Your Soil Test Workshop

Dr Elaine Inghams Soil Food Web School

Episode with Matt from Carbon Options on Biochar

Podcast episode of Six Inches of Soil

Six Inches of Soil Documentary

For the Love of Soil Book

Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

#healthy soil #soil biology #flower farming NZ #soil health #flower farmer podcast

#soil testing #biochar #mycorrhizal fungi #regenerative flower farming #healthy flowers#sustainable flower farming

How Rachel Inger Built a Thriving Small Flower Farm

Join us as we explore Rachel Inger’s journey in flower farming, highlighting her adaptable approach to growing flowers in Hamilton's climate, and the importance of community and planning in flower farming success.

Listen to Rachel’s perspective on the joy of flower farming—building relationships, being outdoors, and creating a lifestyle that balances work and family.

• Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

• ⁠Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers⁠

• Support Our Work!

• Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

• · Advertising in an episode

• · Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

• · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Key Takeaways

• - Understand your unique growing conditions and adapt techniques accordingly.

• - Soil management is essential; consider your soil type and how it affects your crops.

• - Leverage local markets and social media to sell your flowers effectively.

• - Customize your approach based on experiences rather than just external advice.

Rachel Inger’s insights into flower farming provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in the floral industry. By understanding your environment, managing your soil, and effectively reaching your market, you can thrive in this beautiful yet challenging field.

• Key words:

• #flowerfarminginNZ

• #nzflowergrowers

• #nzflorists

• #sustainablefloristry

• #sustainableflowerfarming

Timestamps:

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Rachel and her flower farm

02:09 - Rachel’s farm size, layout, and soil conditions

02:22 - Why Rachel chooses mound beds over formal raised beds

03:30 - Pathways and weed management strategies

04:10 - Soil health, amendments, and the importance of soil testing

05:37 - Growing conditions in Hamilton versus Central Otago

06:40 - Planting schedule for tulips and hardy annuals

07:50 - Wind and frost protection methods

09:37 - Strategies for selling wholesale plus to florists and retail customers

10:46 - Seasonal crop choices for summer (zinnias, cosmos, amaranth)

12:03 - The popularity of certain flower colours and varieties

13:08 - Growing and selling tulips, including subscription models

14:37 - Post-harvest handling and frost protection for tulips

15:45 - How Rachel manages delivery logistics for wholesale flowers

16:54 - The impact of local grower groups and collaboration

21:53 - Use of greenery in bouquets and future crop plans

22:43 - Selling seed kits as gift products and diversification

23:43 - Insights into wholesale selling process and building relationships

29:19 - Working out crop costs and recording yields for profitability

32:24 - Group efforts for logistics and collective shipping

33:21 - Building a supportive grower community in Hamilton

36:48 - Transitioning into seed sales and diversifying income streams

39:13 - Favourite tools, including battery-powered sprayers

42:58 - Advice for new flower growers: research, focus, and enjoyment

45:14 - Reflecting on what gives Rachel joy in flower farming: connection with nature and people

Resources & Links:

• @freshcutflowerwholesalers Local flower wholesaler

• Floret's Cut Flower Garden Book https://gardenonthehill.co.nz/products/cut-flower-garden

• https://www.ryobitools.com/search?q=battery%20sprayers Ryobi Battery-Powered Sprayer

• https://www.harvestbloomflowers.co.nz/seedkits Seed Kits & Gift Pack Ideas

Connect with Rachel Inger:

• https://www.instagram.com/harvestbloomflowers/

This episode underscores how adaptable, community-oriented, and strategic flower farming can be—no matter your climate.

Music licensed through Soundstripe.

Code: TK8ZPB5HGGMOS9MD, B4YGMZVPSREJYW0K

Spotify Show Notes:

In this episode of Flower Farming In NZ, Jo Robinson sits down with Julie Treanor, business coach, flower farmer and co-founder of the Floral Business Activator. We move past the "build it and they will come" trap to explore the marketing strategies that actually move the stems you are already growing.

Whether you’re a professional grower or scaling your commercial production, this conversation dives deep into the psychology of sales, value-based pricing, and how to stop being treated like a supermarket commodity.

In this episode, we discuss:

Selling Transformation, Not Just Stems: Why marketing the "joy" and emotional impact of your flowers is more effective than listing varieties.

The Commodity Trap: How to position your farm so you aren't competing with supermarket prices.

Professional Pricing: The psychology of under pricing and how to value your expertise.

Handling "Budget" Requests: Strategic ways to respond to price-sensitive customers without devaluing your work.

Reliable Marketing Channels: Why your email list and website are more critical than social media algorithms for consistent sales.

Want to sign up to the Floral Business Activator? Using this link helps support our work https://learn.floralbusinessactivator.com/a/qkiib

Detailed Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction & Season Sponsor 1:15 - Meet Julie Trainer: From Business Coach to Flower Farmer 5:50 - The Marketing Mistake: "Build it and they will come" 13:05 - The Profit Reality: Revenue vs. Paying Yourself 21:10 - The Psychology of Under

pricing & Valuing Your Work 23:45 - Marketing 101: Features vs. Transformation 25:30 - Understanding the "Why": Why Customers Actually Buy Flowers 28:50 - Market Perception: Being Known for Quality vs. "Cheap" 29:45 - How to Handle "Budget" Wedding Inquiries 31:25 - Finding Your "Why" as a Business Anchor 35:50 - Why Your Email List Beats Social Media for Sales 41:05 - Rapid Fire: Profitable Crops and Marketing Myths 47:30 - The Hard Truth: To have a business, you must do business 49:50 - Closing Thoughts

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link https://buymeacoffee.com/flowerfarmersinnz

Links Mentioned:

Floral Business Activator (FBA): https://learn.floralbusinessactivator.com/floralbusinessactivator

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers (Season Sponsor): https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/

Keywords: flower marketing strategy, NZ floral industry, selling cut flowers, professional flower farming, flower farm business tips, New Zealand flower growers, marketing for farmers, floral business growth, value-based pricing flowers.

Get ready to reshape your flower farming journey—because success blooms when you understand your worth, community, and the business side of beauty!

Music licensed through Soundstripe.

Code: BFB8DMCRT3WBKV9J, ZVM1DSQXCPDO2SKL, 8CM6ZNHDF2TAEEA7, Y3VJQ8MJ3LEBL3BB

In this episode of Flower Farming in NZ, Jo Robinson is joined by Samantha Matthews of Matthews Nurseries, https://www.matthewsroses.co.nz/ a third-generation family business that has been growing roses since 1947. Samantha takes us behind the scenes of modern rose breeding, sharing the science, patience, and passion required to develop new rose varieties that are beautiful, healthy, and suitable for New Zealand gardens and flower farms.

From planting 50,000 seeds and selecting just a few hundred seedlings, to years of spray-free trials and evaluation, Samantha explains why developing a new rose can take more than a decade.

We discuss:

• How rose breeding works

• Why it can take up to 12 years to release a new rose

• The challenge of breeding fragrance and disease resistance together

• Spray-free rose trials and selecting the toughest plants

• What flower farmers should look for in a rose

• Vase life, stem quality, and picking performance

• Current colour and style trends in roses

• The story behind the popular rose My Mum

• Plant Variety Rights and protecting new varieties

• Crab apples for gardens and floristry

Whether you're a flower farmer, florist, gardener, or rose enthusiast, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the work that goes into every new rose.

Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

⁠Follow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Follow Flower Farming in NZ and let us know your favourite rose variety.

To follow Samantha's photography, follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/samanthamatthewsphoto/

• Rose breeding

• Flower farming NZ

• Growing roses

• Cut flower roses

• New Zealand roses

• Rose breeder

• Matthews Nurseries

Riverside.fm Music Attributions:

Bongo Baby

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Elderflower

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In this episode, Bronwyn from Seeds of Change in Darfield (Canterbury) shares her inspiring journey from health coach to innovative flower farmer and florist, emphasizing the importance of microclimate management, community support, and creative business models in sustainable farming.

Discover how she responds to “No” with “Why Not” as she navigates seasonal challenges, soil health, and market limitations with resilience and forward-thinking strategies.

Connect with Bronwyn on Facebook ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/bronwyn.adamshooper/⁠⁠⁠⁠

Follow Flower Farming in NZ on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarmingin_nz/⁠⁠

This episode offers valuable insights for small-scale farmers seeking sustainable and resilient practices, as well as creative ways to serve their community through garden-based experiences and diversified crops.

Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers⁠. Follow them on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/⁠⁠⁠

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:·
Advertising in an episode·
Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can ·
Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠⁠⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠⁠⁠

Key Topics:•

• Building resilience through diversified microclimates, tunnel houses, and community networks
• Integrating organic principles with community engagement via "pick your own" and experience-based flower events
• The impact of environmental factors like wind and frost on farm design and crop success
• Strategies for managing hail damage and the importance of undercover infrastructure
• Creating a balanced farm with both food and floral production, emphasizing the joy of creating with flowers
• The cultural shift needed to foster mentorship, collaboration, and resilience among flower farmers in New Zealand

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview

00:39 - Bronwyn’s background and transition from health to farming

01:43 - Overview of her two-acre, microclimate-diverse property

02:36 - Pushing boundaries with citrus in Canterbury

03:55 - Building microclimates through planting pockets of warmth and thoughtful design

04:41 - Microclimate examples: frost-free zones and house orientation

05:52 - Growing citrus, yuzu, finger limes, and managing the cold

06:37 - Focus on perennial versus annual flowers and incorporating old garden plants

08:00 - Dealing with wind, shelter belts, and the impact of irrigation

10:23 - Water management and hail event experiences

12:26 - Developing resilience through support networks and biodiversity

3:50 - The importance of microclimates and tunnel house design

16:33 - Organic certification, soil health, and reducing chemical use

18:18 - Biodiversity strategies for pest management, beneficials, and crop health

19:22 - Managing tunnel house heat and shading strategies

20:55 - Wind and shelter solutions

22:39 - Studying floristry and health risks associated with chemicals

23:51 - Moving into organic flower farming at a small scale

26:16 - Business model decisions and balancing income with personal joy

28:11 - Community engagement through pick-your-own flower events and space design

29:47 - Creating unique customer experiences and integrating creative spaces like train carriages

32:54 - Learning from challenging seasons to innovate and diversify

33:47 - Using floral experiences as part of business offerings

37:51 - The impact of social media on market competition and resilience

38:38 - Practical tools for organic gardening and weed management

39:08 - The value of woofing and knowledge exchange

40:13 - Future goals: wedding ambitions and mentorship programs

41:48 - The importance of record-keeping and season planning

42:20 - Insights on flowering timing related to seed sowing versus transplanting

44:16 - Final advice: find a real mentor, learn from failures, and stay true to your joy

Thinking about starting your own flower farm, or trying to scale up your current backyard plots?

In this episode, host Jo Robinson sits down with math-teacher and flower farmer Penelope from Martinborough Manor. Together they strip back the glossy Instagram filters and talk about the real, grit-and-graft basics of flower farming.

From the exact trays and tools that save your body to the financial pitfalls most new growers ignore, Jo and Penelope cover what it takes to run a profitable floral business.

You will learn why local weather data overrides international advice, how to avoid a "seed stash" addiction, and why pulling out blooming plants is sometimes the smartest business decision you can make.

TRACK LIST & TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Weed mat debates and irrigation setups

02:00 - Must-read flower farming books

04:12 - Succession planting explained

05:01 - Seed starting on a budget (Trays vs. blockers)

07:39 - Truth about heat mats, lights, and DIY greenhouses

11:32 - Field tools: Dibblers and Niwashi “choppy chops”

14:12 - Body-saving hacks: Tool pouches and modified tractors

20:50 - Best flower farming courses and networks

23:57 - Tracking expenses: Xero vs. basic spreadsheets

27:05 - Sales psychology: Retail, wholesale, and markets

30:30 - The Martinborough Manor seed planning spreadsheet

37:38 - Planting foliage and scaling with seedlings

41:01 - Taming seed stashes and regional crop failures

47:09 - Ditching Instagram perfectionism and final grower advice

Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

⁠Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers⁠

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE

• Infrastructure & Irrigation: The weed matting debate inside beds vs. pathways.

• The Ultimate Grower's Reading List: Why textbook-style guides beat coffee table books.

• Seed Starting on a Budget: Using simple DIY plastic box “greenhouses”.

• Body-Saving Tools: Hand tool pouches, Niwashi weeders, and turning old lawn tractors (ride-on-mowers) into flower trailers.

• The Mathematics of Farming: How to track your costs, price your stems, and why you should see an accountant.

• Knowing Your Sales Channel: Introverts vs. extroverts at farmer's markets, retail shops, and wholesale math.

• The #1 Thing to Stop Doing: Ruthless prioritization and letting go of perfectionism.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Martinborough Manor Seed Starting Spreadsheet

FloralBusiness Activator

Alan Armitage's Plant Biology Books

Lisa Mason Ziegler's Cool Flowers

Also Lisa Mason Ziegler's other book available from Yvonne (previous guest) at her Garden on The Hill website https://gardenonthehill.co.nz/products/the-cut-flower-handbookFlower Farming for Profit by Lenny Larkin

• Martinborough Manor Seed Starting Spreadsheet: Get Penelope’s automated frost-date planning tool for just $50 at Seed Starting Spreadsheet.

• Books: Alan Armitage reference books, Cool Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler, and Flower Farming for Profit by Lenny Larkin.

• Courses/Groups: Three Acre Farm (Laurie Jo Hernandez), Dave Dowling courses, and the Floral Business Activator (FBA) New Zealand network.

• Tools: Mitre 10 flower snips, Active Vista soil blockers, and Niwashi weeding tools.

In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, Jo Robinson sits down with Perth-based florist, writer, and global flower enthusiast Cerina Triglavcanin—also known as The Flower Scout.

What started as a frustration with school ball corsages turned into a full-blown floristry career, international travel, and a writing platform documenting flower festivals, workshops, and design inspiration across the globe.

Cerina shares how she built her skills from scratch, why she chose events over retail floristry, and how she combines freelancing, travel, and storytelling into a unique and evolving career in flowers.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Starting a Floristry Career Later in Life

Why Cerina skipped retail floristry for events

Freelancing in Event Floristry

The flexibility (and unpredictability) of freelance work

Designing with Intention - Fewer ingredients = higher design pressure and more intentional selection.

Cerina’s signature approach:

• Monochromatic palettes

• “En masse” floral use

• Limiting designs to three key ingredients

• Sculptural forms and strong line work

Cerina shares her experiences attending:

• International flower festivals

• High-level floral workshops

• Large-scale installation events

• Why workshops are as much about people as they are about technique

From Florist to Writer: Building “The Flower Scout”

• How Cerina began writing for Flowers Magazine Australia

• Turning travel experiences into published articles

• Starting a Substack as a creative outlet and long-term strategy

• Using writing as a less physically demanding pathway within floristry

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and episode overview

00:41 - Cerina’s background and passion for flowers

01:44 - How she started her floristry journey pre-COVID

02:12 - Her formal training via TAFE during the pandemic

03:32 - Balancing freelance events with personal design style

04:48 - The influence of travel and worldwide workshops

06:09 - The significance of international flower festivals

08:00 - How climate impacts flower choices in Perth

09:12 - Her approach to native Australian flowers and design principles

10:42 - The challenge of sourcing flowers locally & seasonally

12:36 - Her favourite flowers and arrangements

13:40 - Writing as an extension of her floristry passion and her Substack

15:53 - Planning upcoming projects like Subi Blooms and native flora installations

16:38 - Her future goals, including judging and ongoing learning

18:07 - The story behind her publication in Blumenhaus

19:40 - The story of her Substack handle 'The Flower Scout'

21:39 - How she chooses flower festivals and workshops globally

23:09 - Memorable flower festival experiences

25:39 - Insights into international wholesale markets

33:01 - The impact of quarantine laws and imports on local floristry

36:47 - Her outlook on the future of floristry & her evolving roles

44:05 - The potential shift from floristry to writing and sharing stories

46:39 - Her upcoming judging role and exciting plans

47:41 - Closing remarks and future collaborations

Resources & Links:

• Cerina's Substack - The Flower Scout

• Flowers Magazine Australia

• Blumenhaus Magazine

• Chelsea Flower Show

• Madrid Blooms

• Waterlily Farm, Margaret River⁠

• https://theflowerscout.substack.com/p/leuca-creek-waterliliesConnect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

⁠Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers⁠

 Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

·       Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

If You Enjoyed This Episode

• Follow / Subscribe for more flower farming insights

• Share with a fellow grower or florist

• Leave a review to support the podcast

In this episode, Jo Robinson shares insights from flower farmers across New Zealand, highlighting what worked, what didn't, and practical lessons for future planning.

Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer or just starting out, these real-world experiences offer valuable takeaways to refine your strategies and boost resilience.

It was a season of "strange weather," featuring early heatwaves, torrential rain, and unexpected hail.

Our thanks to Egmont Seeds for providing some of the images used in this episode.

In this episode:

• Key factors influencing season outcomes

• Common challenges like weather extremes, pests, and crop failures

• Successful crop choices and sales channels

• Practical tips on crop management, pest control, and planting schedules

• Planning for next season based on this year’s lessons

• The importance of resilience and adaptability

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and season overview for flower growers

01:03 - Astrid’s experience at Gulf Harbour

01:33 - Vicky’s weather extremes in Northland

02:13 - Ellie’s slow start using fertiliser teas for flower production

02:51 - Melanie’s rainy season challenges and landscape-growing approach

03:31 - Daisy’s first year in cut flowers and learning curves

04:00 - Penelope’s season as an experienced grower

04:29 - Sophia’s organic practices and rapid early season growth in Canterbury

04:57 - Insights from Jo in Central Otago on spring flowers

05:36 - Emma’s diverse event work and the impact of weather 05:59 - Bronwyn’s resilience and recovery from hail damage

06:16 - Key activities and crops that thrived this season

07:14 - Successes and struggles

08:48 - Astrid’s experience with dahlias

10:10 - Penelope’s standouts

11:00 - Ellie’s high-density dahlias and airflow strategies

11:43 - Melanie’s marigolds and the early season flowering

12:37 - Sophia’s trial and error with spring blooms and mildew issues

14:07 - Jo’s success with tulips and ranunculus

16:29 - Challenges crops this year

19:14 - The impact of weather on crop quality

20:15 - Emma’s rain and temperature challenges with peonies and dahlia

22:19 - Wet winter and spring effects on planting and flowering timelines

23:54 - Adapting to unpredictable weather and wind damage

25:14 - Sale channels: Facebook Groups, wholesale and local markets

29:58 - How growers plan changes for next season

34:39 - Final thoughts: grow what does well where you are, and plan ahead

Key Highlights & Takeaways:

• Sales Strategy: Why a $30/$50 price choice model worked

• Smart Solutions: Using diatomaceous earth for thrip control on Dahlias

• Grow What Works: focus on what thrives in your specific microclimate.

• Get the Transcript: Want to read the full breakdown? Leave a comment on this post/video, and we’ll send you the full transcript!

• Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed these insights, please Like, Subscribe, and leave a Review!

Follow Flower Farming in NZ on Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/flower_farming_in_nz/

Already a flower farmer in NZ? Join the private Facebook group Flower Farming in NZ

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3293079974103061

#FlowerFarminginNZ #NZFlowerFarmers #NZCutFlowerGrowers #CutFlowers #LocalFlowers #FlowerFarmingPodcast #FlowerFarminginNZPodcast #SustainableGrowing #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming

Connect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers.

Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele