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
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, 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
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 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 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