The Cut Flower Podcast

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In this engaging interview, Milli Proust shares her journey from acting to floral artistry, her passion for seed breeding, and her innovative approach to sustainable flower farming. Discover practical tips on propagation, seed saving, and designing with seasonal flowers, along with insights into her upcoming projects and books.

Takeaways

You can purchase Milli's book here

Follow Milli on Instagram here or view her website here

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Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Roz Chandler shares practical tips on the easiest plants to propagate in your first year, focusing on seed saving, division, and cuttings. Perfect for beginners looking to build confidence and success in propagation.

Takeaways:

Easy plants to propagate: Cosmos, Calendula, Cornflowers, Sweet Peas
Propagation methods: seed saving, division, cuttings
Specific plants: mint, salvia, dahlias, pelargoniums, strawberries, perennials
Propagation tips for confidence and success
Roots to Shoots course for structured learning

Join our 5 month propagation course here

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Roz Chandler demystifies propagation, emphasising its simplicity and benefits. She covers core methods like seed, cuttings, and division, highlighting practical tips on timing, light, and moisture, and encourages beginners to start propagating for cost savings, confidence, and joy.

Takeaways

To join our masterclasses at 8pm BST on the 27th and 28th April click...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Roz Chandler explores the transformative power of plant propagation, emphasizing its cost-saving, empowering, and sentimental benefits. She shares practical insights and encourages listeners to start propagating plants to gain independence, create legacies, and enjoy the process.

Takeaways

To join our Spring Propagation classes click here.

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Roz Chandler shares expert tips for successful flower gardening in April, covering soil preparation, sowing, planting, staking, and maintenance to ensure a thriving cutting patch.

Takeaways

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join Roz Chandler as she interviews Kate Turner, the Gardening Guru, about her journey from acting to sustainable gardening, the importance of peat-free compost, and adapting gardening practices to climate change. Discover practical tips for beginners and insights into resilient, eco-friendly gardening.

key topics

You can follow Kate...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Roz Chandler shares a comprehensive March checklist for flower growers, covering soil preparation, sowing, perennial management, support installation, and wildlife-friendly practices to ensure a successful growing season.

Takeaways

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, host Roz Chandler speaks with Grace Alexander, a gardener and seed producer. Grace shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by gardens to her career in psychology and her passion for flower growing and seed production. The conversation explores the importance of adaptability in careers, the challenges of navigating money and worth in entrepreneurship, and the significance of finding balance and setting boundaries in life. Grace also discusses her plans for organic certification and her love for growing sweet peas, emphasizing...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January at 8pm UK time by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the journey of starting a cut flower business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's motivations and the potential for success in this field. She addresses common misconceptions about flower farming, the significance of planning and strategy, and the challenges faced by new flower farmers, including imposter syndrome. Rosalind encourages listeners to explore their passion for flowers and consider...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January at 8pm UK time by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the healing power of gardening, particularly in relation to mental and physical health. She shares insights from her experiences and those of others who have turned to gardening during challenging times, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature and the emotional significance of flowers. The episode also invites listeners to join upcoming masterclasses focused on growing cut...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the importance of understanding climate zones in cut flower growing. She emphasizes that successful flower growing relies on core techniques rather than strict adherence to climate zones. Rosalind encourages listeners to observe their plants and adapt techniques to their specific conditions, rather than feeling limited by their climate. The episode also highlights the value of online master classes for growers worldwide, regardless...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz Chandler shares her journey as a flower farmer and offers valuable insights for beginners looking to start their own cut flower gardens. She emphasizes the importance of starting small, choosing the right flowers, and overcoming the fear of failure. With practical tips and encouragement, Roz aims to inspire listeners to embrace the joy of growing cut flowers and participate in her upcoming master...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Join our 3 Masterclasses at 8pm on the 22nd, 23rd and 26th January by clicking here

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz Chandler discusses the joys and challenges of growing your own wedding flowers. She emphasizes the personal significance of using self-grown flowers, offers practical advice on flower selection, and stresses the importance of planning and timing. The episode also highlights the upcoming free online masterclasses designed to guide listeners through the process of growing and arranging flowers for weddings.

Takeaways

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode of the Cut Flower podcast, host Roz Chandler speaks with Saskia Marjoram, founder of Saskia's Flower Essence. They explore the emotional significance of flowers, Saskia's journey from floristry to creating flower essences, and the profound impact these essences can have on emotional wellbeing. Saskia shares her experiences, insights on building a sustainable business, and advice for those looking to pursue unconventional paths in their careers. The conversation highlights the importance of intuition, passion, and the healing power of nature.

Takeaways
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In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz Chandler discusses the significance of December in gardening, emphasizing the importance of preparation and reflection for the upcoming growing season. She shares practical tips for caring for plants, protecting wildlife, and planning for future business goals. The conversation encourages listeners to take a moment to appreciate their gardens and consider their strategies for the next year.

Key takeaways

December is a crucial month for flower growers.
It's time to plan for the...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this conversation, Roz discusses the challenges of maintaining a cutting garden in November, emphasizing the importance of preparation for the upcoming year.

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

Takeaways

Preparation in November is crucial for next year's success.
Protecting plants is essential during colder months.
Planting in November can set the stage for spring blooms.
Garden maintenance should not be overlooked in November.
Enjoying the p...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

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

We would love you to join our Blooming Business Bootcamp which is taking place between the 17th to 20th November. To join click here

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz discusses the beauty of October in the cutting garden, emphasizing the importance of preparing for winter while still enjoying the last blooms of the season. She shares practical tips on caring for dahlias, sowing hardy annuals, planting spring bulbs, and planning for the next growing season. Roz encourages listeners to reflect on their gardening successes and challenges, and to dream about future planting plans.

Takeaways

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

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

Takeaways

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz introduces the concept of propagation, emphasising its importance for flower farmers and gardeners. She discusses the two main types of propagation: sexual and asexual, and shares personal anecdotes to illustrate the benefits of propagating plants. Roz encourages listeners to adopt a year-round approach to propagation and provides practical tips for success, including the importance of labeling and mastering one method at a time. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to research and plan their propagation efforts.<...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode, we delve into the art of cutting and conditioning flowers to maximize their beauty and longevity. Discover why timing is crucial, with early morning and late evening being the best times to cut flowers when their stems are fully hydrated. Learn about the importance of using clean tools and buckets, and the specific needs of different flowers like roses, tulips, and delphiniums. Join us as we explore practical tips and techniques to ensure your blooms stay vibrant and fresh. Tune in for expert advice and elevate...

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In this inspiring episode, Roz reconnects with Andy from Urban Herbs, 18 months after their first chat, to dive into how his herb-growing business has evolved in unexpected and beautiful ways.

Now joined by his wife as a co-leader in the business, Andy reflects on how this partnership has brought fresh energy, clarity, and new ideas to Urban Herbs.

They dig into:

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, host Roz chats with Debra Prinzing and Robin Avni - co-authors of The Flower Farmers: Inspiration and Advice from Expert Growers. Together, they explore the heart behind the book, which shares the stories of 29 flower farmers from across the country.

From the collaborative process of writing the book to the personal journeys of each grower, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and honest reflections on the challenges and beauty of flower farming. Debra and Robin also discuss...

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In this heartwarming and insightful episode, we’re joined by Phil Johnson, sweet pea expert and the grower behind English Sweet Peas. Phil shares his lifelong connection to these delicate, nostalgic blooms—starting from age nine—and how that early passion grew into a celebrated career.

We explore:

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of our recent flower retreat in Spain, where three industry pros - specialising in floristry, flower farming, and social media for creatives - came together to teach, guide, and collaborate with an incredible group of flower lovers.

We dive into:

The diverse backgrounds of our retreat attendees

The magic of cross-industry collaboration

Key floristry techniques and design inspiration shared

Business-building strategies for sustainable growth in the floral world

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz sits down with Sarah Turner, a graphic designer turned budding flower farmer. Sarah shares her journey of balancing a creative career while nurturing a deep passion for flowers, discussing the therapeutic benefits of gardening and the lessons learned from growing blooms from seed to stem.

Together, Roz and Sarah explore the practical and emotional aspects of flower farming, from the challenges of selling locally grown flowers and accessing land, to imposter syndrome and finding community support. They...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Welcome back to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I'm your host, Roz Chandler, and today we're diving into the lush world of foliage. Join me as we explore the top picks for your cutting patch and unravel the beauty and versatility these green treasures bring to floral arrangements.

Summary:
In this episode, we embark on a journey through the top 15 foliage varieties for your cutting patch. From the timeless elegance of myrtle to the vibrant hues of Ninebark and the delicate charm of Snowberries, each...

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In this heartfelt episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz chats with Laura from Flowers by the Brae, a former office worker turned passionate flower farmer and florist based in Errol, Scotland. Laura shares the highs and lows of leaving a traditional career to grow blooms in the Scottish soil. She opens up about the realities of flower farming - from unpredictable seasons and sustainability challenges to the joy of connecting with customers through storytelling. Together, Roz and Laura explore the emotional side of floristry, the importance of local...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode, Roz welcomes Donna Sutton, a career-changer who swapped accountancy for horticulture. Donna shares her journey into gardening, her experience with the WRAG scheme and the challenges and triumphs of finding joy and purpose in a new field. Together, Roz and Donna discuss the evolution of The Granary Garden, Donna’s commitment to sustainable cut flower growing, and the role of community and social media in modern horticulture. From career pivots to preparing for Gardeners’ World Live, this episode is packed with encouragement for anyone pursuing a pa...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this soulful and inspiring episode, Roz is joined by renowned potter, gardener, and author Frances Palmer. Frances takes us on a journey from her New Jersey childhood to the peaceful, flower-filled studio she now calls home in Connecticut. She shares the origins of her creative practice, her connection to the earth through ceramics and gardening, and the personal stories behind her beloved books, Life in the Studio and Life with Flowers.

This conversation blooms with wisdom on the interplay between floral design and pottery, the beauty...

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In this episode, Roz chats with John and Annabel from Middleton Nurseries - a passionate, family-run business that has been thriving since 1975. Known for their deep love of salvias, John and Annabel share the story of their nursery, from humble beginnings to becoming salvia specialists. The conversation delves into the unique qualities of salvias as cut flowers, the intricate process of breeding new varieties, and the joys and hurdles of running a seasonal, weather-dependent business. They also explore the pride that comes from maintaining a multi-generational business and the...

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In this episode, Roz sits down with award-winning garden designer and author Polly Wilkinson to explore the art and heart behind meaningful garden design. With years of experience and a beautifully honest approach, Polly shares how she transitioned into the world of garden design, how her background in marketing shaped her business, and why flexibility has been key to her career success.

The conversation weaves through Polly’s thoughts on designing gardens that blend beauty with practicality—spaces that work for families, evolve with lifestyles, and invite peop...

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode, Roz chats with London-based florist Lucy Maw, whose designs are grounded in her commitment to using 100% British-grown flowers. Lucy shares her transition from the world of fashion to floristry, and how her passion for gardening evolved into a thriving floral business.

The conversation explores the realities of sourcing British flowers, the importance of relationships with local growers, and the growing demand for sustainable blooms. Lucy reflects on the challenges of marketing, the nuances of working seasonally, and how collaboration...

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In this episode, Roz sits down with Ellen Frost, owner of Local Color Flowers, to explore the world of locally sourced, sustainable floristry. With 17 years of experience, Ellen shares her journey from gardening enthusiast to floral business owner and the challenges of maintaining a 100% local sourcing model.

They dive into the environmental impact of imported flowers, the logistics of working with local flower farmers, and why education is key to changing...

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In this episode, Roz sits down with Ali to talk about the importance of sustainable floristry and how they built the Great British Flower School. They share their journey, the challenges they faced, and the eco-friendly practices that every florist can adopt to reduce their environmental impact.

From using moss instead of floral foam to growing your own flowers, they provide practical tips that make sustainability achievable and creative...

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In this episode, Roz sits down with Jen from Life on the Lot, a passionate flower farmer who turned her pandemic vegetable-growing hobby into a thriving flower farm. Jen shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she faced in her early days, and how growing her own food completely transformed her perspective on sustainability and seasonality.

Now, with her latest project at Claremont Farm, Jen is creating a pick-your-own flower experience and workshops to bring more...

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Nadine Brown, a seasoned florist with over 30 years of experience, to talk about the evolving world of floristry. From starting her first flower shop at just 23 to becoming a leading voice in sustainable floristry, Nadine shares her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the changes she hopes to see in the industry.

We dive into the importance of local flower sourcing, building strong grower-florist relationships, and why authenticity in de...