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Hello and welcome back to The Cut Flower Podcast! In this special episode, I’m stepping into the shoes of an agony aunt, inspired by the wonderful Dolly Alderton. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be answering all your burning questions about growing flowers—whether for profit or pure pleasure. In today's episode, we kick off with the beloved dahlia and some common concerns you've sent in, including why they’re not blooming, how to prevent them from flopping, and whether it’s safe to leave them in the ground over winter.

I also share my advice on the best seeds to sow now for early spring blooms, how to sow undercover, and tips on transplanting seedlings. It’s all about helping you grow the most beautiful, vibrant flowers, whatever your situation.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we explore some of the most frequent questions about flower growing:

• Dahlias: Why they may not be blooming, how to keep them upright, and whether you should dig up tubers before winter.
• Seed Sowing: Which hardy annuals you can start undercover now, and the best practices for ensuring healthy growth.
• Transplanting: When and how to transplant your seedlings to avoid shock.

If you're looking for practical advice to keep your flowers thriving, this episode is packed with helpful tips.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sunlight is essential for dahlias: They need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to bloom well, so check their light exposure.
2. Staking dahlias early helps: To prevent flopping, stake larger varieties as soon as you plant them.
3. Seed sowing tips: Use well-draining soil and keep your seeds undercover until the frost risk passes.
4. Transplant carefully: Wait until seedlings have two sets of leaves before transplanting, and harden them off gradually.

I’d love to hear from you, so if you have any questions for future episodes, please drop me an email at roz@fieldgateflowers.co.uk with the subject line "Ask Roz." I’ll be picking questions from the Best Bunch membership, Growth Club, and our online courses too!

Thanks for joining me today – I can’t wait to hear your feedback on this new agony aunt style!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Welcome to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m your host, Roz Chandler, and today we’re diving deep into all things garden pests. I’m joined by the brilliant Tessa from Ladybird Plant Care, who’s here to share some amazing tips on how to manage pests organically. From slugs to aphids, we’re covering it all, so if you’ve had any garden woes this year, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Tessa from Ladybird Plant Care walks us through the challenges and solutions for common garden pests, with a particular focus on organic methods. We chat about the importance of tackling pests like slugs and aphids at the right time of year, and why natural biological control is becoming more popular. Tessa also shares why using nematodes in the autumn is key to reducing slug problems in the spring, and we explore the fascinating world of parasitic wasps for aphid control. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep pests at bay without resorting to harmful chemicals, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your garden thrive.

Key Takeaways:

1. Slug Control with Nematodes: Now is the perfect time to apply nematodes to prevent next year’s slug infestation. Tessa explains why autumn treatments are essential.
2. Organic Pest Management: Biological control methods like using parasitic wasps for aphids are natural, effective, and environmentally friendly.
3. Patience is Key: With biological controls, it’s important to be patient and allow nature to take its course. These solutions take time but yield great results.
4. Deep Cleaning for Pest Prevention: Clean your greenhouses and tools thoroughly at the end of the season to remove overwintering pests and prevent future infestations.
5. Think Like a Bug: When preparing your garden for winter, consider where pests might hide, like under pots or in cracks, and take steps to eliminate their cosy spots.

Action Step:
Take a good look at your garden as we head into the colder months. Apply nematodes now to reduce slug populations, and give your greenhouse a deep clean to avoid overwintering pests. If you’ve had pest issues this year, start planning your biological controls for next year!

Here are Tessa’s contact details for any questions or pest identification help:

You can reach her via email at plantcare@ladybirdplantcare.co.uk

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Roz here! I’m thrilled to bring you another insightful episode, and today, we're diving deep into the world of sweet peas with none other than Roger Parsons. Roger shares his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with sweet peas to becoming the custodian of the National Collection. If you’re passionate about sweet peas or just love to learn about the intricate beauty of flowers, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Roger Parsons takes us on a journey through the delicate and fragrant world of sweet peas. From his early memories of buying sweet pea varieties at Woolworths to managing an extensive collection of over 160 Lathyrus species, Roger’s passion is palpable. He discusses the challenges of preserving rare varieties, the nuances of sweet pea cultivation, and offers practical advice for both novice and experienced growers.

Roger also shares valuable insights into the differences between various types of sweet peas and other Lathyrus species, such as the everlasting pea. He provides tips on achieving the best vase life for cut flowers, growing sweet peas in different climates, and the benefits of cordon growing versus natural growth methods.

Key Takeaways

• Journey to National Collection: Roger’s transition from a childhood love of sweet peas to managing a national collection and the importance of preserving rare varieties.
• Sweet Pea Varieties: Understanding the differences between Spencer, Grandiflora, and old-fashioned sweet peas, and how to choose the right type for your needs.
• Growing Tips: The best times to sow sweet peas depending on your location, and how to support and care for your plants for optimal growth.
• Irrigation Insights: How proper watering can extend stem length and improve overall flower quality, and the role of foliar feeding in promoting healthy plants.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Learn how to prevent leggy growth, ensure your plants flower, and avoid over-fertilisation with nitrogen.

Connect with Roger Parsons:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rpsweetpeas
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roger_parsons_sweet_peas/
• Website: https://www.rpsweetpeas.com/

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hello everyone, it’s Roz Chandler here, and today we have a truly inspiring episode lined up for you. I’m thrilled to welcome the marvellous Kerry Hales, a Transformational Life Coach and author. Together, we delve into some significant topics – from decluttering your mind to transforming your life and business. Kerry shares her wisdom on how to navigate the overwhelming transition from employee to entrepreneur, especially in the challenging world of flower farming.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Kerry Hales brings her 20 years of experience as a Transformational Life Coach to our conversation, guiding us through the process of intentional living and business transformation. We discuss the realities of running a flower farm and the mental shifts required to succeed. Kerry introduces her book, "Life Lessons From Your Knicker Drawer," and explains how something as simple as organising your underwear can reflect and influence how you manage your life and business.

Key Takeaways:

1. Intentional Living: Transforming your life and business requires clarity about your goals and the reality of what’s involved in achieving them.
2. The Transition to Entrepreneurship: Moving from employee to business owner is a significant shift that requires unlearning old habits and embracing new skills.
3. The Power of Decluttering: Simplifying your physical space, like your knicker drawer, can have a profound impact on your mental clarity and approach to life.
4. Planning and Realism: Flower farming is hard work, and it’s essential to plan your year around its demands, considering what you are prepared to give up or adapt.
5. Leverage Your Strengths: Recognise the skills you already have and don’t be afraid to seek help in areas where you’re less confident.

Thank you so much for tuning in today. Don’t forget to check out Kerry’s book, "Life Lessons From Your Knicker Drawer," for more insights on decluttering your life and business.

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Welcome to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m your host, Roz Chandler, and today I’m thrilled to be joined by the wonderful Ali Conway, who heads up the sustainable floristry company, Rambling Stems. Ali and I have been collaborating for some time, plotting and planning ways to bring sustainable floristry to the forefront. In this episode, we delve into Ali’s fascinating journey from the world of corporate marketing to becoming a passionate advocate for eco-friendly floristry. Grab your cup of tea, settle in, and let’s explore the world of sustainable blooms together!

Episode Summary: In today’s episode, we chat with Ali Conway, founder of Rambling Stems, about her unexpected journey into floristry and her commitment to sustainability. Ali shares her story, from her beginnings in marketing and garden design to discovering her true calling in floristry. We explore the challenges and rewards of working with British blooms, the importance of ditching floral foam, and the beauty of embracing the natural flow of flowers. Ali’s insights highlight how sustainable practices can redefine the art of floristry, making it more aligned with nature.

Key Takeaways:

1. Unexpected Paths: Ali’s journey from corporate marketing to sustainable floristry shows that it’s never too late to find your true passion.
2. Ditching Floral Foam: Ali discusses the harmful effects of traditional floral foam and why it’s crucial to seek eco-friendly alternatives.
3. Working with British Blooms: Learn about the challenges and joys of sourcing and working with British-grown flowers, and how it enhances creativity.
4. Sustainability in Practice: Simple steps like composting and reducing waste can make a big difference in creating eco-friendly floral designs.
5. Collaborative Learning: Ali’s story emphasises the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in adapting to sustainable practices.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into sustainable floristry, join us for our upcoming free online event on 19th September, where Ali and I will be sharing live demos and more insights. Link to register is here >

https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/gbfsopen

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

This podcast episode is sponsored by First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hello, flower enthusiasts! Roz Chandler here, welcoming you to another insightful episode of The Cutflower Podcast. In this episode, we continue our three-part series on perennials for your cutting garden or flower farm. Last week, we covered the alphabet from A to H, and today we'll be picking up with H for Hellebores and moving through to S. These trusty perennials form the backbone of a productive garden, ensuring beauty and reliability year after year. Let’s dive in!

Episode Summary

In this instalment, Roz Chandler takes us through the next set of essential perennials for any cutting garden. Starting with the delicate and early-blooming Hellebores, she moves on to Limonium, Toadflax, Lysimachia, and a host of other beautiful and practical plants. Roz shares her expert tips on how to grow, propagate, and care for these plants to maximise their vase life and ensure a bountiful harvest. Whether you’re a flower farmer or an avid gardener, these perennials are must-haves for their versatility and enduring appeal. The episode also touches on the love-hate relationship with peonies, the versatile uses of mint, and the stunning beauty of Sanguisorba.

Key Takeaways

1. Hellebores and Patience: Hellebores require patience; pick them when seed pods and stamens drop for optimal vase life.
2. Propagation Tips: Many perennials, like Lysimachia and mint, benefit from division every few years, offering more plants and fresh growth.
3. Versatility of Mints: Mints can be invasive, so plant them in containers unless you want them to spread. They offer excellent vase life and fragrance.
4. Seasonal Highlights: Peonies, while short-lived, are a beloved addition to any garden, providing stunning blooms that can be stored for later use.
5. New Additions: Sanguisorba, with its striking height and unique colour, has become a favourite and a must-grow for its visual impact and longevity.

Thank you for joining me as we explore these wonderful perennials. Stay tuned for the final part of our series, where we'll cover the rest of the alphabet and some additional favourites!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hello, flower lovers! It's Roz Chandler here, welcoming you to another delightful episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Today, I'm excited to take you on a tour of our farm's most cherished perennials. Over the years, we've honed our selection, and now I want to share the top perennials that make up the backbone of our farm. This episode is part one of a series where we delve into the beautiful and reliable plants that keep us blooming all season long.

Episode Summary

In this solo episode, Roz Chandler introduces us to the wonders of perennials on her flower farm. With 15 years of experience in flower farming, Roz highlights the importance of perennials, aiming to have them make up 65% of the farm's stock. She shares insights into the top ten perennials from A to G, including tips on propagation, vase life, and how to get the best out of each plant. From the reliable Achillea and striking Scabious to the versatile Chrysanthemums and the ever-popular Dahlias, Roz provides practical advice for both flower farmers and gardening enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

1. Importance of Perennials: Perennials are a vital part of a sustainable flower farm, offering consistency and reliability.
2. Top Perennials: Discover the best perennials from Achillea to Geum, and why they are indispensable in any flower collection.
3. Propagation and Care: Learn how to propagate, care for, and extend the vase life of these beautiful blooms.
4. Practical Tips: From dividing plants to preventing slug damage, Roz shares her expert tips for keeping your flowers thriving.

Thank you for joining me on this botanical journey. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we continue exploring more wonderful perennials!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hi there! It’s Roz Chandler here, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to another enriching episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Today, we have the wonderful Sarah Diligent with us, a wedding and event florist, author, and teacher of sustainable floristry. I’ve admired Sarah’s work for over a decade, and I can’t wait for you to hear her inspiring journey. Let’s dive right in!

Episode Summary

In this episode, we sit down with Sarah Diligent, who shares her fascinating transition from being a nanny to becoming a celebrated florist. Sarah recounts her journey into floristry, spurred by her own wedding, and how her passion for flowers and sustainable practices has shaped her career. She discusses the challenges and rewards of running a floristry business, the importance of sustainability, and the evolving trends in the floral industry.

Key Takeaways

1. Sustainability in Floristry: Sarah emphasises the critical role of sustainability in floristry, detailing the environmental impacts of traditional practices and the benefits of using locally sourced, eco-friendly materials.
2. From Nanny to Florist: Discover how Sarah’s global experiences as a nanny contributed to her unique perspective on floristry and her determination to tackle challenging projects.
3. Educational Journey: Learn about Sarah’s educational path, from initial courses at Green and Gorgeous to her extensive training with various florists, which equipped her with the skills and confidence to start her own business.
4. Challenges of the Industry: Sarah candidly shares the hurdles she faced, including initial rejections from florists and the demanding nature of the job, and how she overcame them through perseverance and passion.
5. Consumer Awareness: The importance of educating consumers about the origins of their flowers and the ethical considerations involved in flower farming and floristry.
6. Business and Personal Growth: Insights into how Sarah balances the demands of her business with personal wellbeing, the value of setting boundaries, and continuously striving for sustainability in all aspects of her work.

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

This podcast episode is sponsored by First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection