Welcome to Flower Farming in NZ—the podcast where we dig into the art of growing and selling beautiful blooms here in Aotearoa.
I’m your host Jo Robinson, a grower, flower lover, and passionate supporter of local, seasonal flowers. Whether you're just starting out , or you’re already knee-deep in growing and selling flowers, this podcast is for you.
Each episode, 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, and flower lovers across the country. Do join us on our flowery journey.
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A Live Wire Conversation with Cat from Electric Blooms: Season 1 Episode 3
Season 1 · Episode 3
Sunday, July 13, 2025 • Duration 32:27
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.
Making Water Soluble Calcium: Season 1 Episode 2
Season 1 · Episode 2
Thursday, July 3, 2025 • Duration 09:12
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.
Introducing Flower Farming in NZ: Season 1 Episode 1
Season 1 · Episode 1
Tuesday, July 1, 2025 • Duration 05:03
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
Navigating the Floral Marketplace with United Flower Growers: Season 2 – Sponsors Episode
Season 2
Monday, August 25, 2025 • Duration 32:03
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:
Embracing Sustainability in Floristry on a NZ Flower Farm with Cassie Heath: Season 2 Episode 1
Season 2 · Episode 1
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 • Duration 30:28
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.
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.
The Power Of Biochar with Matt from Carbon Options: Season 1 Episode 6
Season 1 · Episode 6
Sunday, August 10, 2025 • Duration 28:00
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
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.
Buying & Selling Flowers with Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers : Season 1 Episode 4
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.
An Accidental Journey to Flower Farming with The Joy Farmer: Season 2 Episode 4
Season 2 · Episode 4
Saturday, October 4, 2025 • Duration 32:20
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.
Mental Health Matters - The Farmstrong Approach: Season 2 Episode 3
Season 2 · Episode 3
Friday, September 19, 2025 • Duration 37:10
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.
· 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
