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The Cut Flower Podcast

Roz Chandler

If you love cut flowers you are in the right place. The host Roz Chandler has been a cut flower farmer for nearly ten years and is passionate about helping others to have their own cutting patches. This podcast is for you if:-. You currently grow or want to grow cut flowers for pleasure or profit and be part of a growing community. Your host is passionate about reducing the number of cut flowers travelling many thousands of miles from across the globe and therefore helping to reduce the carbon footprint on our planet for our children and their children. Cut flower guests will join us on this journey. We look forward to welcoming you to our community. We would love you to subscribe to this podcast and join our communities online. We do have two Facebook groups:-For Beginners and those looking to grow for pleasure - https://www.facebook.com/groups/learnwiththecutflowercollectiveFor those wanting to start flower farming or indeed are flower farmers:-https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowerfarming

  • 26 minutes 47 seconds
    Rediscovering the Art of Natural Dyeing: From Seed to Sustainable Style

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    Welcome to The Cutflower Podcast!
    Hi, I’m Roz Chandler, your host, and I’m thrilled to take you on another journey into the world of flowers, creativity, and sustainability. In this episode, I sat down with the amazing Susan Dye and Ashley from Nature's Rainbow. Together, they’ve built a life around growing natural dye plants and educating others about this beautiful craft.

    Episode Summary

    I had the privilege of learning about Susan and Ashley’s story, from childhood inspirations to creating a dye garden in Hitchin. We talked about their journey into natural dyes, the technicalities of extracting colours, and the sheer joy of wearing or using something made entirely from scratch. We also explored how some dye plants can double as cut flowers and why reconnecting with these sustainable practices is so rewarding.

    Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:

    1. Natural dyeing is a beautiful blend of art, science, and sustainability.
    2. Key plants like madder, woad, and weld are not only vibrant but also steeped in history.
    3. The preparation process is crucial for achieving bright, long-lasting colors.
    4. Workshops and mentoring bring the joy of natural dyeing to life for everyone.
    5. There’s something special about creating with plants you’ve grown yourself—it’s a soul-nourishing experience.

    Resources for You

    Get Involved!

    If this episode inspired you, tag us with #TheCutflowerPodcast and #Nature’sRainbow. I’d love to hear your questions and comments! You can also pop into The Cut Flower Collective on Facebook to join the conversation.

    Let’s Stay Connected
    Are you thinking of starting your own dye garden? Susan and Ashley’s workshops and blog are a fantastic place to start. I know I’m inspired to dive in and try something new. Let me know if you’re joining this journey, too!

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


    20 December 2024, 6:00 am
  • 43 minutes 9 seconds
    Reviving the British Cut Flower Industry with Roisin Taylor

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    Hi, I’m Roz, and welcome back to The Cutflower Podcast! Today, I’m thrilled to welcome back Roisin Taylor, who joins us for an insightful follow-up discussion. Earlier this year, we spoke about her Nuffield Farming Scholarship and her fascinating work on climate adaptation in the British cut flower industry. Now, we dive into her latest findings and her vision for the future of flower farming in the UK. Let’s get into it!

    Episode Summary

    In this compelling episode, Roisin Taylor shares her research into the resilience of the British cut flower industry amid the challenges of climate change. From storm-damaged gardens to scorching summers, her Nuffield Farming Scholarship journey revealed both vulnerabilities and opportunities in this growing sector.

    We discuss her travels, including eye-opening visits to Kenyan and Dutch flower farms, lessons learned from their practices, and the troubling lack of transparency in flower production. Roisin unveils her plan to establish a British Cut Flower Association—a body to support growers, florists, and stakeholders, ensuring a sustainable and thriving industry.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Climate Change Impacts: Understanding how flooding, drought, and extreme heat are challenging the resilience of British flower farms.
    2. The Need for Advocacy: Why the industry requires a dedicated national body to support growers, address labour issues, and drive sustainability.
    3. Labelling and Transparency: Advocating for clearer labelling to help consumers make informed choices about the flowers they buy.
    4. Collaboration Over Competition: How hubs, cooperatives, and community efforts could transform the supply chain and make British flowers more accessible.
    5. Lessons from Abroad: Insights from Kenya, the Netherlands, and beyond on building a sustainable and profitable flower industry.

    Resource Links:

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

    New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order.


    13 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 31 minutes 16 seconds
    Fragrant Blooms and Flourishing Dreams: Ed Boers Introduces the World of Fibrex Nurseries

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    Hi, I’m Roz, and welcome to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! Today, I’m thrilled to have a very special guest, Ed Boers, joining me. Ed has had an incredible journey this year, stepping into the world of Fibrex Nurseries and saving a much-loved family business. If you’re curious about the beauty and versatility of pelargoniums or dreaming of creating your own blooming paradise, you’ll love this episode!

    Episode Summary

    In this episode, I sit down with Ed Boers, the passionate owner of Fibrex Nurseries. We dive into his remarkable story of taking over the renowned family-run nursery, known for its exquisite pelargoniums, ferns, and ivies. Ed shares his journey from a childhood surrounded by plants to becoming the driving force behind revitalising this specialist nursery.

    We talk about everything from his background in plant propagation to the challenges of moving an entire nursery operation, and even some tips on caring for tender perennials like pelargoniums through the winter. Whether it’s the scent of a pelargonium bouquet or the joys of running a family business, Ed’s enthusiasm is infectious.

    Plus, we explore the growing trend of container gardening and how pelargoniums are the perfect fit for balconies and urban spaces. With insights into marketing strategies, the power of Instagram, and Ed’s plans for 2024, this episode is packed with inspiration for plant lovers and entrepreneurs alike.

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pelargoniums 101: The difference between pelargoniums and geraniums, and why pelargoniums are such a versatile, superior plant for bouquets, containers, and more.
    2. Winter Care Tips: How to protect tender perennials like pelargoniums from frost and make the most of their cutting potential.
    3. Building a Niche Business: Ed’s approach to preserving Fibrex’s legacy while expanding its reach through mail order and social media.
    4. Growing Trends: The rise of container gardening and how pelargoniums are ideal for small urban spaces.
    5. Inspiration for Entrepreneurs: Insights into managing a family-run business, staying authentic on social media, and balancing passion with practicality.

    Resources Mentioned & Links

    • Fibrex Nurseries: Visit fibrex.co.uk to pre-order pelargoniums and other plants. Dispatch begins March 2025.
    • Follow Fibrex on Instagram for updates: @fibrex_nurseries
    • Fo

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


    6 December 2024, 9:00 am
  • 50 minutes 47 seconds
    Cultivating Unique Dahlias and the Art of Hybridisation with Kristine Albrecht

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    Welcome to the Cutflower Podcast!
    In this episode, Roz interviews Kristine Albrecht, an award-winning Dahlia hybridiser, farmer, and vice president of the Monterey Bay Dahlia Society. Kristine shares her journey into dahlia cultivation and hybridisation, as well as insights into her unique approach to developing new dahlia varieties. With over 1,800 dahlias on her urban quarter-acre farm in Santa Cruz, California, Kristine has become a sought-after expert, particularly in creating colours and forms that captivate both exhibitors and florists.

    Episode Summary

    • Kristine’s Journey: How Kristine turned a quarter-acre plot into a dahlia haven.
    • Hybridising Dahlias: The art and science of creating new dahlia varieties, including Kristine’s techniques and goals.
    • The Dahlias Genome Project: Kristine's role in an ambitious project to decode the genetic blueprint of dahlias.
    • Challenges of Flower Farming: Insights on managing viruses, cross-pollination techniques, and more.
    • Innovations and Inspirations: Kristine’s ongoing quest for unique dahlia colours like brown and Coco Loco-inspired shades.

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Art of Hybridisation
      Kristine details the hybridisation process, including hand-pollination techniques and how to create new, vibrant varieties. Hybridisers can start by letting dahlias naturally cross-pollinate or manually selecting pollen sources to reach specific goals.
    2. Building Florist-Friendly Varieties
      Kristine emphasises breeding dahlias for florists with versatile colours like blush and antique tones, meeting the demand for trendy, event-worthy flowers.
    3. Navigating Challenges in Farming
      Handling dahlia viruses and preserving healthy stock for clients are major challenges. Kristine shares her methods, from sterilising tools to testing for virus-free plants.
    4. Community and Collaboration
      By working with licensed sellers to multiply and distribute her varieties, Kristine sustains her business. She also collaborates closely with florists for feedback on new Dahlia traits that resonate with designers.

    Resources

    • Follow Kristine on Instagram:

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

    New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order.


    22 November 2024, 6:00 am
  • 44 minutes 12 seconds
    Rebuilding Life After Breast Cancer featuring Rosamund Dean

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    Welcome to The Cutflower Podcast! Today, we’re diving into a deeply personal and inspiring conversation with Rosamund Dean, a renowned journalist, author, and breast cancer survivor. Rosamund’s journey and her latest book, Reconstruction, offer insights not only into surviving cancer but truly reclaiming life after it. If you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer, this episode is one you won’t want to miss."

    Episode Summary
    In this heartfelt episode, Roz Chandler sits down with Rosamund Dean, author of Reconstruction, to explore her experiences with triple-negative breast cancer, from diagnosis to recovery. Rosamund shares her journey through chemotherapy, surgery, and the many stages of healing, both physical and emotional. She discusses her book's title and purpose, explaining how Reconstruction reflects the often-overlooked need to rebuild oneself post-treatment. Their conversation touches on the importance of nutrition, mental health, and the lifestyle changes that play a crucial role in managing life after cancer.

    Rosamund also highlights her ongoing mission to inspire others through her writing, which includes candid discussions about wellness, the importance of exercise, and finding joy in a balanced lifestyle. From advice on navigating treatment to the significance of community support, this episode is a thoughtful resource for anyone seeking hope and resilience.

    Key Takeaways

    • Prioritise Wellness: Eating more vegetables, reducing processed foods, and embracing an 80/20 approach to nutrition can support overall health and recovery.
    • Find Movement You Enjoy: Exercise, even simple walks, can significantly reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
    • Take Control of Treatment: Write down questions for your doctors, be proactive in understanding your treatment, and don’t be afraid to ask about alternatives to medications.
    • Accept Support: Lean into the help offered by friends and family; delegation isn’t a weakness but a source of strength.
    • Mindset for Life Post-Cancer: The journey doesn’t end with treatment; acknowledge the emotional and physical adjustments needed to navigate life after cancer.

      Resources Mentioned in This Episode
      Rosamund Dean’s book: Reconstruction – A guide to healing and s

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

    New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order.


    15 November 2024, 6:00 am
  • 48 minutes 7 seconds
    Sustainable Floristry: Navigating the Global Flower Industry with Dr. David Bek

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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

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

    New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order.


    8 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 21 minutes 6 seconds
    Planning and Scaling Your Flower Garden – Profit vs. Pleasure

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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.

    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 [email protected] or visit cutflowercollective.co.uk. Please leave a review if you enjoyed this episode and share it with others. See you next time!


    1 November 2024, 10:00 am
  • 31 minutes 45 seconds
    Garden Design and Sustainability with Chris Hull

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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 Instagram for more design inspiration. If you have any quest

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


    25 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 26 minutes 12 seconds
    Agony Aunt Roz: Answering Your Top Cut Flower Gardening Questions

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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 answers helpful. If you have more questions, feel free to rea

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


    18 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 10 minutes 37 seconds
    Keeping Your Cutting Patch Productive: November Gardening Tips

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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! 


    11 October 2024, 9:00 am
  • 28 minutes 19 seconds
    Autumn Flower Gardening: Roz Answers Your Questions on Bulbs, Dahlias, and Winter Prep

    Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

    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 to help! Send me an email at [email protected],

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


    4 October 2024, 9:00 am
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