By Lisa Mason Ziegler
4.9
367367 ratings
The podcast currently has 323 episodes available.
This episode features a takeover of our popular “Ask a Flower Farmer” live Q&A session on Instagram. Daniel Schavey of Petal Pickers Flower Co. in Greenville, SC hosted this one. Daniel is an 8th-year flower farmer growing in zone 8a and an alumnus of most of The Gardener’s Workshop’s online courses.
Here, Daniel offers an update on his growing season (including a BIG problem with his Dahlias) and answers questions on topics such as Cool Flowers, his most profitable crops, and so much more!
Mentions
Petalpickers.com: fresh flowers shipped nationwide, dahlia tuber and fall bulb sales
Bio360 Biodegradable Mulch Film
Online Courses from The Gardener's Workshop
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
This episode is an interview that Lisa recently did on The Flower Podcast with host Scott Shepherd. Scott and Lisa covered a broad range of topics, including:
If you haven't listened to The Flower Podcast, you should check it out here!
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Lisa's Online Course: Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
This episode features a takeover of our popular weekly live Q&A session on Instagram, called Ask a Flower Farmer. It was guest-hosted by Dave Dowling of Ball/ColorLink, a former flower farmer and the instructor for our online course: Flower Farming School Online: Bulbs, Perennials, Woodies, and More. Dave is always happy to share his knowledge with our listeners!
Topics Covered
Episode originally aired 6/26/24 on Instagram. Join Lisa and her guest hosts Wednesdays at 12:30PM Eastern time to get your cut flower growing questions answered by the experts!
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Dave on social: Facebook, Instagram
Dave's Course: Bulbs, Perennials, Woodies, and More!
Discover our online courses!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our Farm News emails!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Whether you're new or improving your farm, these insights can help. The journey can be tough, but with commitment and adaptability, the rewards are worth it. Take the time to learn and experiment—your efforts will pay off.
1. Find Your Markets
Understanding your market is the first step to successful crop planning. Consider factors like demand and pricing, which can change quickly, making thorough analysis vital.
2. Grow Diverse & Complementary Crops
Diversity is essential in flower farming, as variety enhances beauty and increases resilience against pests & diseases.
3. Build Soil Health and Pest Resistance
Healthy soil is vital for plant growth. Regular soil testing helps you make informed decisions about amendments. Adding organic matter improves soil structure, enhancing water retention and aeration. Monitoring moisture levels is crucial, as both overwatering and drought harm plants. Thus, maintaining soil health requires ongoing attention.
4. Implement Succession Planting
Succession planting is essential for a steady supply of flowers and requires careful planning. Timing significantly affects yield, so growers should consider factors like climate and plant variety.
5. Assess Available Resources
Take the time to thoroughly assess your situation, as hasty decisions can lead to unforeseen consequences. Preparation is key, but avoid overthinking; find a balance that suits you.
Crop planning is about the bigger picture. Challenges may arise, but this strategy sets your flower farm up for success!
Mentions
Lisa's Online Course: Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Hey, friends! It's Lisa Mason Ziegler, and today we're diving into the topic of time management in flower farming. Let’s explore how to make the most of your time while building your flower business.
Key Points to Consider
Managing Your Time Wisely
Efficiency in Flower Farming
Final Thoughts
Time management is crucial for success in flower farming. It's not about working every waking hour; it's about working smart. Remember, successful flower farmers manage their time effectively. So, take control of your time, and watch your flower business thrive!
Until next time, friends! Ciao!
Mentions
Michelle at Roots Cut Flower Farm
Lisa's Online Course: Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Sales & Pricing in Your First Season of Flower Farming
Welcome to flower farming! If you're new to this industry, knowing about sales and pricing is crucial. This podcast covers strategies for your first season, including pricing transparency and customer loyalty.
The Importance of Pricing Transparency
Pricing transparency is key for your flower farming business. It's about being clear with customers and aligning with industry standards. Asking customers what they would pay can harm your reputation.
Instead, set your prices based on research of reputable flower farmers and your costs. This creates a strong foundation for your pricing strategy.
Remember, pricing can differ by location and market. A $25 bouquet may seem small in one area and substantial in another, so adjust based on local conditions and product quality.
Understanding Seasonality
It's important to educate customers about flower seasonality. Many may not know when certain blooms are available, leading to unrealistic requests, like brides wanting out-of-season flowers.
Share your knowledge of seasonal blooms. For example, if peonies will be available next week, let customers know in advance to create anticipation and strengthen your connection.
No Bartering, Please
Bartering can undermine your professionalism. Haggling might imply you're not serious. Set clear prices and stick to them; customers should either buy at the price or not.
Sticking to your prices builds trust and respect for your brand. It's better to reward loyal customers than negotiate with others.
Rewarding Loyal Customers
A rewards system for loyal customers can increase sales. Consider subscriptions for regular deliveries, providing steady income and fresh flowers for your best customers.
Also, offer bulk discounts for larger orders, defining what qualifies as "bulk." For instance, a dozen bunches may qualify, but smaller amounts do not.
Waiving delivery fees for larger orders can encourage bigger purchases and foster loyalty.
Keeping It Simple
As a new flower farmer, it might be tempting to offer many bouquet sizes, but this complicates things. Focus on one standard-sized bouquet that competes with supermarkets.
Simplifying your offerings makes production easier and boosts profitability, allowing you to prioritize quality.
Not Everyone Is Your Customer
Understand that not all customers are a good fit. Some may expect more than you can provide or be difficult to please. Letting go of these customers helps you focus on those who appreciate your work.
If a customer frequently complains or makes unreasonable demands, consider referring them elsewhere. Your time is valuable, and focusing on the right customers will yield better results.
Building a Loyalty Program
A loyalty program can encourage repeat business. Implement a punch card system for a free bouquet after a set number of purchases to reward loyalty easily.
Show appreciation to regulars with special offers or freebies to retain customers and encourage referrals.
Conclusion
As you navigate your first season, remember that learning and adapting are vital. Stay connected with industry professionals and adjust your strategies as necessary. With dedication, you can create a successful flower farming business.
For more resources, please visit our website.
Mentions
Lisa's Online Course: Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Marketing in Your First Season as a Flower Farmer
Hello, friends! Welcome back to another episode of Field & Garden, where I help anyone, anywhere, learn how to grow cut flowers. Today, I'm excited to share some valuable tips on marketing and selling flowers, especially in your first season. This is such an important topic, and I hope to inspire you to take action!
Getting Ready for Your First Season
Let’s dive into how to market your flowers before you even have them! This is crucial because the best time to start marketing is before you have buckets of flowers waiting for customers. In fact, you want to have people excited and ready to buy your flowers even before they bloom!
Facing the Challenges of Marketing
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the business side of flower farming, especially marketing. It can seem daunting, but facing these challenges will get easier over time. Don't give up after one or two attempts; persistence is key! Remember, marketing is simply about educating people about what you do and how they can buy from you.
Top Ten Marketing Tips for Flower Farmers
Here are ten points to help you market your flowers effectively:
Building Anticipation
Remember, the goal is to create excitement around your flowers before they are ready to sell. By using these marketing strategies, you can warm up your audience and have them clamoring for your flowers when they are available!
Until next time, happy flower farming!
Lisa Z.
Mentions
Lisa's Online Course, Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Jennie Love's Online Course: Making Workshops Work for You
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Lisa shares her 2025 plan to downsize her growing space and encourages those with smaller spaces to optimize their production in the following areas: bed spacing and maintenance, soil health, weed prevention, intensive planting techniques, and succession planting.
Mentions
Podcast: Seed Talk with Lisa & Layne
Free Phone App: The Gardener's Workshop Live Shop
Lennie's Online Course: Profitable Flower Farming
Products: Bio360, Flower Support Netting
Irrigation Suppliers: Berry Hill, Dripworks
Lisa's Book: The Cut Flower Handbook
Lisa's Online Course, Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Lisa lays the groundwork for you to succeed out of the gate, rather than suffering through failures to find your way to a great cut flower garden. Whether you're new to the cutting garden concept or you've been unsuccessful starting one in the past, listen in for the three key factors that will lead you down the path to gorgeous cut flowers!
Mentions
Lisa's Book: The Cut Flower Handbook
Lisa's Online Course, Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
Discover essential insights into the world of flower farming, where passion meets perseverance! This episode dives deep into the heart of flower farming, unraveling the layers of determination, business acumen, and preparation needed to thrive.
From the first-hand experience of someone who started their journey 25+ years ago, learn about the highs and lows of stepping into the unknown, the resilience required to overcome the myriad challenges, and the critical importance of a strong business foundation to sustain your passion for flower farming.
Embark on your path to becoming a successful flower farmer today by understanding the importance of preparation and equipping yourself with the tools needed for a flourishing future in flower farming.
Mentions
Book: The Flower Farmer by Lynn Byczynski
Lisa's Online Course, Flower Farming School Online: Basics, Annual Crops, Marketing, and More!
Shop the TGW Online Store for all your seeds and supplies!
Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!
The Field and Garden Podcast is produced by Lisa Mason Ziegler, award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers, owner of The Gardener’s Workshop, Flower Farming School Online, and the publisher of Farmer-Florist School Online and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa’s Story and connect with Lisa on social media!
The podcast currently has 323 episodes available.
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