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Hi, I’m Roz Chandler, and welcome back to The Cutflower Podcast! Today, I'm thrilled to welcome back Dr. David Bek, a leading researcher in sustainable horticulture and creative economics at Coventry University. A lot has changed since David's last visit, and we're diving into his latest work on sustainable practices in the cut flower industry, including insights on the global supply chain, eco-friendly packaging, and the challenges we face in the push for sustainable floristry.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Roz Chandler sits down again with Dr. David Bek to explore the complex world of sustainable cut flowers and the economics behind them. David shares his journey from childhood experiences with nature to becoming a prominent researcher in sustainable horticulture, with a particular focus on flowers. They discuss his work with the Sustainable Cut Flowers Project and the intricate supply chains that transport flowers across continents.

David highlights the environmental challenges of the cut flower industry, from high carbon footprints to issues with plastic packaging, and how he and other experts are working to find solutions. The conversation touches on sustainable floristry practices, labeling transparency, and efforts to reduce plastic waste. David also shares stories about the impact of economic drivers on sustainability, including how consumer demand shapes market practices. Together, Roz and David discuss the future of sustainable floristry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among growers, florists, and consumers.

Key Takeaways:

1. Understanding the Environmental Cost: The global journey of flowers involves significant carbon emissions, packaging, and preservation efforts that impact sustainability.
2. The Role of Consumer Demand: Change in the industry often comes down to consumer awareness and demand for sustainably grown, local flowers.
3. Importance of Transparency and Labeling: Clear labeling can inform consumers about flower origins and sustainability practices, helping to shift demand.
4. Collaboration Across the Supply Chain: From growers to wholesalers, collaboration is essential to improve sustainable practices in the flower industry.
5. Innovative Solutions in Eco-Packaging: Research

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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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Hi, I’m Roz Chandler, and welcome to The Cut Flower Podcast! Today, we’re discussing how to plan and scale your flower garden, whether you’re growing for fun or looking to turn it into a business. I’ll share practical tips to help you make the most of your space and achieve your goals. Let’s get started!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Roz answers key questions about whether to grow flowers for pleasure or profit. She covers choosing flowers, preparing your garden, and making decisions that fit your goals. For hobbyists, she recommends easy-to-grow flowers like cosmos and zinnias, which add colour and thrive with minimal care.

For those considering growing for profit, Roz discusses how to do market research, target local buyers, and select popular varieties like dahlias and lisianthus. She explains the benefits of successional planting to ensure continuous blooms and the importance of managing soil health and pests for a productive garden.

Roz also touches on the challenges of scaling a garden for profit, such as time management, costs, and building a marketing strategy to boost sales and grow your business.

Key Takeaways:

1. Define Your Goals: Know whether you're growing for fun or profit, and plan your garden accordingly.
2. Beginner-Friendly Flowers: Choose low-maintenance varieties like cosmos and zinnias for hobby gardening.
3. Grow for Profit: Research the market and grow popular varieties like dahlias to meet demand.
4. Successional Planting: Plant in stages to ensure you have flowers blooming throughout the season.
5. Healthy Soil & Pest Management: Focus on soil care and pest control for a thriving garden.

Closing Message and Call to Action (CTA):
Thanks for listening to today’s episode! Whether you’re growing for profit or pleasure, I hope these tips help you on your gardening journey. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at roz@fieldgateflowers.co.uk or visit cutflowercollective.co.uk. Please leave a review if you enjoyed this episode and share it with others. See you next time!

• 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, I’m Roz Chandler, and welcome to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! Today, I’m joined by a very special guest—Chris Hull, an award-winning landscape designer and presenter on Garden Rescue. We’ll be talking about his journey in garden design, sustainability, and some fantastic insights into creating eco-friendly gardens. Let’s dive in!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Chris Hull shares his evolution from gardener to landscape designer, highlighting his award-winning work at the Chelsea Flower Show. He discusses the principles of sustainable garden design, stressing the importance of using local materials and native plants to minimize environmental impact. Chris provides tips on designing gardens that promote biodiversity, emphasizing how diverse plantings can create habitats that support local wildlife and ecosystems.

Beyond the design aspect, Chris opens up about his work with the mental health charity Rethink and his belief in the therapeutic power of gardening. He speaks about the profound effects gardening has on mental well-being, offering listeners insight into how horticulture can serve as a tool for emotional and mental recovery.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sustainable Gardening: Focus on using native plants and locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact.
2. Design for Wildlife: Incorporate a variety of plants to create a garden that supports local ecosystems and wildlife.
3. Gardening for Mental Health: The act of gardening can improve mental well-being, offering therapeutic benefits and a calming escape.
4. Practical Experience: Aspiring garden designers should immerse themselves in hands-on work to truly understand plants and landscape dynamics.

If you found this conversation with Chris Hull inspiring, please leave a review and share the episode with your gardening friends. Be sure to check out Chris’s work on his YouTube channel, Chris Hull Gardens, and follow him on Instag

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• 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, I’m Roz Chandler, and welcome to another episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Agony Aunt edition! Today, I’m excited to dive into your questions about growing cut flowers. Whether you’re just starting or have been at it for years, this episode is packed with tips and advice to help you flourish. From soil conditions to choosing the best flowers, we’re covering it all. Let’s get started!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Roz tackles listener questions, offering expert advice to help improve your cut flower gardening. The first question comes from Kay, who wonders if soil type affects the color of dahlias. Roz explains how environmental factors, like soil and sunlight, can impact flower colors, and highlights how these can vary across different locations.

Next, Beth asks how to clear an overgrown allotment. Roz walks through the process of preparing your plot using the no-dig method and landscape fabric to manage weeds. She also shares tips on whether to plant in raised beds or directly into the soil.

For those starting their flower journey, Roz suggests beginner-friendly flowers such as zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers, perfect for easy maintenance and great yields. She also covers essential techniques like cutting flowers in the morning, proper conditioning for extended vase life, and pinching or disbudding flowers for longer stems.

Other questions include how to manage pests organically and choosing flowers that thrive in shady areas. Roz wraps up by offering tips on creating a seasonal planting schedule to maximize your garden's potential all year round.

Key Takeaways:

1. Environmental Impact on Flower Color: Soil, sunlight, and climate can influence the color and vibrancy of your flowers.
2. Allotment Preparation: Use no-dig gardening methods and landscape fabric to control weeds and prepare your garden efficiently.
3. Great Starter Flowers: Zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers are excellent choices for beginners who want reliable, easy-to-grow cut flowers.
4. Extend Vase Life: Harvest flowers early and properly condition stems for longer-lasting blooms in vases.
5. Pinching for Better Stems: Removing side buds can help flowers produce longer stems for cutting.

Closing Message and Call to Action (CTA):
Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! I hope you found the ans

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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In this episode, Roz Chandler covers everything you need to know about maintaining your cutting patch during November. From planting bulbs to soil preparation, there are many tasks to keep your garden active throughout the colder months.

Roz shares practical advice on when to plant tulips and crocuses, how to divide and cut back perennials, and the importance of protecting your soil with mulch or compost. She highlights how to make leaf mould, protect plants that are borderline hardy like agapanthus, and why autumn is the perfect time to plant bare-root roses.

Additionally, Roz discusses ways to ensure proper soil health for next year’s growing season and the importance of testing manure before use. She also gives detailed tips on lifting and propagating plants like dahlias and roses and encourages planning for the spring by looking at seed catalogues.

Throughout the episode, Roz emphasizes the importance of continuous care, even through winter, ensuring that your garden is ready to burst into life next spring.

Key Takeaways

1. Plant Tulips in November: November is the ideal time to plant tulips because cooler soil temperatures help prevent diseases like tulip fire.
2. Soil Preparation is Key: Turn your soil while it still retains some heat and protect it with mulch to ensure it’s ready for spring planting.
3. Leaf Mould and Mulching: Gather leaves to create leaf mould and mulch your plants for protection through winter.
4. Bare-root Roses and Plant Protection: November is the best time to plant bare-root roses, and make sure to protect borderline hardy plants like agapanthus.
5. Propagate and Plan for Next Year: Divide overgrown plants, propagate cuttings, and start planning your garden for next year by reviewing seed catalogues and making a list of supplies.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! If you’re ready to take your gardening skills to the next level, make sure to check out our website for more tips and resources. Don’t forget to join our vibrant community on Facebook—The Cut Flower Collective, where over 7,000 growers share tips and experiences.

For more guidance, visit https://FieldgateFlowers.co.uk and check out our masterclasses, including our Rose Masterclass for in-depth knowledge on planting, pruning, and caring for your roses. Stay tuned for more episodes, and happy gardening!

• 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, I’m Roz, and welcome to The Cut Flower Podcast! In today's episode, I’ll be answering your most burning questions about seasonal flower gardening, particularly focusing on autumn tasks. From bulb planting to how to care for your dahlias as winter approaches, we’re covering it all. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, I’ve got practical advice to help you get the most out of your flower patch.

This episode dives into some of the most common questions I receive from my membership groups and courses, including how to handle bulbs like Narcissi and Tulips during autumn. I break down why October is ideal for planting Narcissi, but why it’s crucial to wait until November or December to plant Tulips to avoid diseases like tulip fire. We also talk about planting hardy annuals like Larkspur and Cornflowers to overwinter, offering practical tips on how to ensure they thrive when spring comes.

We also explore the hot topic of dahlia care. Should you lift or leave them in the ground? I explain the factors that go into making that decision, including your climate and soil type. You’ll learn about mulching techniques to protect dahlias and other tender plants from the frost, as well as the best ways to store tubers if you decide to lift them.

Finally, I answer your questions about roses, manure, and the benefits of sowing green manures like Phacelia. Whether you’re wondering if it’s too late to plant perennials or how to best prepare your garden for winter, this episode is packed with useful advice for gardeners of all experience levels.

Key Takeaways:

1. Patience is key when planting Tulips: Wait until November or even December to avoid fungal diseases.
2. Overwinter hardy annuals: By planting them now, you’ll have stronger plants ready to bloom in the spring.
3. Dahlia care: Depending on your climate, you may leave them in the ground or lift them. Either way, mulching is crucial for frost protection.
4. Mulching your flower beds: Applying organic matter like compost in October helps suppress weeds and improves soil structure for next year’s blooms.
5. Leave your garden a little wild: Resist the urge to "tidy up" your patch entirely; seed heads and hollow stems benefit wildlife over winter.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! Don’t forget, if you have any questions, I’m always here

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• 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 back to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m Roz Chandler, your friendly Agony Aunt of the cut flower world. In today’s episode, we dive into some of the most common questions about growing ranunculus and spring bulbs. Whether you're battling yellowing leaves, wondering about the perfect time to plant ranunculus, or trying to prevent squirrels from digging up your precious bulbs, I’ve got you covered.

This episode is part of my Dear Roz series, where I answer your gardening dilemmas with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Feel free to send your own questions to me at roz@fieldgateflowers.co.uk with the subject line Ask Roz, and I’ll happily answer them in future episodes.

Key Takeaways:

• When to Plant Ranunculus: The best time for planting ranunculus corms is autumn (October-November), but in colder climates, February-March is ideal.
• Tips for Getting More Ranunculus Blooms: Give your ranunculus plenty of sunlight, regular feeding with a balanced fertiliser, and deadhead spent blooms for continuous flowers.
• Managing Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering or a lack of nitrogen could be the culprit; ensure your plants have well-drained soil and consider adding a balanced fertiliser.
• Growing Ranunculus in Containers: Yes, you can! Just ensure good drainage, proper spacing, and sunlight.
• Protecting Bulbs from Squirrels: Use chicken wire, sprinkle cayenne pepper, or plant daffodils around more vulnerable bulbs to keep squirrels at bay.

Make sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more tips and insights on creating a thriving flower garden. And don’t forget to send in your questions for the next episode of Ask Roz!

• 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 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