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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

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 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

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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