In this episode, Jo Robinson interviews Peter Brown, CEO of United Flower Growers (UFG), discussing the role of UFG in the New Zealand flower market.

They explore UFG's mission to provide a fair marketplace for flower growers and buyers, the importance of technology in auction services, and the innovations being introduced to enhance trading systems.

The conversation also addresses barriers faced by growers, the significance of personal relationships in the industry, and advice for those looking to engage with UFG.

Takeaways

• UFG is New Zealand's largest flower broker, connecting growers and buyers.

• The mission of UFG is to provide a fair and effective marketplace.

• Technology plays a crucial role in modernizing auction services.

• Innovations like future bidding and buy now options enhance buyer experience.

• Geographical location can be a barrier for some growers.

• UFG offers support and guidance for new growers entering the auction system.

• Building personal relationships is key in the flower industry.

• Buyers and sellers are equally important in the marketplace.

• Feedback from growers is welcomed to improve UFG services.

• Regular participation in auctions helps establish a grower's brand.

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

· Advertising in an episode

· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can

· Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

Keywords #United Flower Growers #UFG #flower farming #New Zealand flowers, #auction services # flower growers #florists #technology #flower market #logistics, #flower industry

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to UFG and Its Mission

02:14 Who does UFG mainly supply?

03:05 Proud of the way that UFG connects to those in the industry.

03:21 UFG's Market Position and Business Model

03:37 How does UFG define its position as a business?

04:31 Innovations in Auction Services

06:53 Challenges and Solutions for Growers

09:37 Enhancing Buyer-Grower Connections

11:40 Standards and Support for Growers

12:50 Biggest barrier to sending product to auction?

15:03 Second Grades

16:39 Building Relationships with Growers

19:32 The Advantages of Being a Large Organization

20:32 Navigating Buyer and Seller Accounts

22:06 Timing for Account Setup

22:32 Logistics and Freight Solutions

24:59 Balancing Buyer and Seller Needs

26:12 Empowering Growers to Focus on Production

28:15 Future Innovations at UFG

30:09 Final Advice for Growers

31:35 The Role of UFG in the Flower Industry

Join us as Cassie Heath of Flourish Events shares her journey from dairy farming to sustainable floristry.

Discover her innovative eco-friendly practices, the challenges of growing flowers in New Zealand's highest wind zone, and her creative solutions for minimizing waste in floral arrangements.

Keywords: sustainable floristry, flower farming, local sourcing, floristry challenges, educating clients, community building, innovative practices, wedding floristry, eco-friendly practices, floral design

Summary In this conversation, Jo and Cassie Heath of Flourish Events explore the world of sustainable floristry, discussing the journey of a florist who grows her own flowers, the challenges faced in the industry, and the importance of sourcing locally.

Cassie shares her experiences in educating clients about sustainability, the innovations she has implemented in her flower farming, and the significance of community in her business. The discussion highlights the balance between creativity and sustainability in floristry, as well as the rewarding experiences that come from successful events.

Takeaways

Sustainable floristry is about making conscious choices.

Growing your own flowers can enhance creativity and reduce waste.

Community support is vital for local florists.

Educating clients on sustainability can lead to better practices.

Social media influences client expectations and business operations.

Starting small with sustainable practices can lead to significant changes.

Innovative practices in flower farming can improve efficiency.

Building relationships with local growers is essential.

Celebrating successful sustainable events can inspire others.

Finding joy in the process of floristry is key to success.

Chapters

00:00 Flower Farming in NZ Podcast

00:54 Chatting with Cassie from Flourish Events.

03:11 Sustainable Practices in Floristry

05:02 Innovative Solutions for Floral Arrangements

06:46 Challenges of Sustainable Floristry

08:49 Local Sourcing and Seasonal Constraints

10:38 Educating Clients on Sustainability

11:10 Biggest challenges of running a sustainable floristry

12:13 Success Stories in Sustainable Events

14:21 Advice for Aspiring Sustainable Florists

20:39 From Archways to Floral Innovations

21:40 If you could grow only one flower.

23:32 Navigating Client Relationships

24:43 Recharging After Events

26:30 Future Plans and Sustainable Practices

Connect with Cassie:

Website: flourishevents.co.nz

Instagram: FlourishEvents Limited

Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:  

1) Advertising in an episode       

2) Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can       

3) Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Music Credit: Credit for  some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

In this episode, we dive into the world of biochar with Matt from Carbon Options. Discover how biochar, made from local forestry waste, enriches soil and sequesters carbon, offering a sustainable solution for farmers.

Learn about the unique process of creating biochar, its role in improving soil health, and its impact on climate resilience.

Join us to explore the benefits of biochar for flower farmers.

Guest: Matt Welton, the co-founder of Carbon Options, an off-grid biochar operation in the  Akatarawa Valley. Follow Carbon Options on Facebook for updates and inquiries.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577629602758

Keywords:

biochar, carbon options, flower farmers, soil health, climate resilience, organic farming, nutrient retention, carbon sequestration, environmental benefits, sustainability

Biochar is made from organic materials through pyrolysis.

Carbon Options focuses on using local, clean feedstock for biochar production.

Biochar improves soil health by enhancing nutrient retention and moisture holding capacity.

Flower farmers can benefit from using biochar to improve crop yields and soil quality.

The process of creating biochar can sequester carbon for hundreds of years.

Feedback from farmers is crucial for improving biochar products.

Biochar can be used in compost to enhance its effectiveness.

Innovations in biochar applications are being explored, including spill kits and fire starters.

Do you enjoy listening or watching the Podcast?

If you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·            Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

·            Advertising your products or services in an episode

·            Sponsoring an episode or a season

Don't miss out on future episodes—subscribe now and join us in exploring all aspects of flower farming in New Zealand.

Credit for music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers -  Happy Clappy Ukulele

Keywords

flower farming, horticulture, business, sustainability,entrepreneurship, flowers, farming advice, flower sales, crop planning, localflowers

Support Our Work!

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZFlower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·         Sponsoring an episode or a season or by

·         Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠

Summary

In this conversation, Jo Robinson interviews Lisa from FloraFlowers, who shares her journey into flower farming, her unique growing setup, and the various aspects of her business.

Lisa discusses her background in horticulture, the challenges of running a flower farm, and her approach to sustainability.

She also highlights the importance of learning through experience, the significance of pricing strategies, and her future plans for the business. The conversation emphasizes the balance between work and personal life, and the joy that flowers bring to both the grower and the community.

Takeaways

Lisa's journey into flower farming was accidental but fulfilling.

She emphasizes the importance of learning on the job.

Sustainability is a key focus in her farming practices.

Lisa has diversified her business with side ventures like My Patch.

She sells flowers through a florist and a roadside stall.

Pricing is based on market understanding and simplicity.

Flower farming is a year-round commitment with challenges.

Starting small and keeping it simple is crucial for newfarmers.

Lisa is excited about using her unique dahlia varieties.

Success in flower farming is about personal fulfilment and flexibility.

Sound bites

"I never set out to become a flower farmer."

"Start small, keep it simple."

"Sunflowers are my favorite to grow."

Chapters

 00:00 Introduction to Lisa and Flora Flowers

03:00 The Journey to Flower Farming

04:53 Horticultural Background and Training

06:31 Unique Growing Setup and Challenges

09:07 Diversifying the Business: My Patch and Seedling Brokerage

11:33 Sales Channels and Strategies

13:43 Pricing and Market Dynamics

15:48 Growing Practices and Sustainability

18:24 Advice for New Flower Farmers

20:20 Reflections on Success and Challenges

22:33 Future Plans and Innovations

Keywords

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, flower wholesaling, flowersourcing, floristry, flower trends, sustainable flowers, flower growers, flowermarket, flower quality control

Summary

In this conversation, Jo Robinson interviews Lissie, the Supply Manager for Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, discussing the intricacies of the flower wholesaling industry. Lissie shares insights on sourcing flowers, working with growers, quality control, market trends, and the importance of building relationships within the industry. The discussion also touches on sustainability, customer engagement, and the evolving demands of flower buyers.

Lissie emphasizes the significance of understanding pricing structures and the need for growers to communicate effectively with wholesalers to ensure a successful partnership.

Takeaways

 Lissie is a qualified florist with over five years in the industry.

Fresh Cut Flowers focuses on a streamlined wholesale approach.

The company is passionate about supporting local growers.

Quality control is a shared responsibility between growers and wholesalers.

Communication with growers is essential for successful sales.

Understanding market trends helps in planning crops effectively.

Foliage and shrubs are important for flower farmers to consider.

Sustainability is a growing concern in the flower industry.

Shipping flowers does not always require a cool chain.

Building relationships is key to success in the flower market.

Titles

 Blooming Business: Insights from Fresh Cut Flowers

The Art of Flower Wholesaling with Lissie

Sound bites

"We are passionate about our growers."

"You can't keep selling at a loss."

"It's all about relationships."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

00:58 The Journey of Fresh Cut: History and Evolution

03:21 Understanding Flower Sourcing and Popular Trends

05:22 Selling to Fresh Cut: A Grower's Guide

07:50 Quality Control and Grading in Flower Production

10:12 Essential Crops for New Growers

12:08 Long-Term Planning for Flower Farming

14:18 Commercial vs. Garden Flowers: What to Consider

17:03 Shipping and Handling of Flowers

22:08 Trade Accounts and Wholesale Operations

23:01 Sustainability in Packaging

24:53 Trends in Flower Demand

27:24 Building Relationships with Growers

29:43 Pricing and Market Dynamics

31:59 Personal Insights and Experiences

36:29 Community Engagement and Support

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

Address: 26B Kerwyn Avenue, East Tamaki,Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: 09-918-5330

Website: www.wholesaleflowers.nz

Insta: @freshcutflowerwholesalers

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·        Advertising in an episode

·         Sponsoring an episode or a season of episodes or by

·         Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz

Keywords

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, flower wholesaling, flower sourcing, floristry, flower trends, sustainable flowers, flower growers, flower market, flower quality control

Summary

In this conversation, Jo Robinson interviews Lissie, the Supply Manager for Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers, discussing the intricacies of the flower wholesaling industry. Lissie shares insights on sourcing flowers, working with growers, quality control, market trends, and the importance of building relationships within the industry. The discussion also touches on sustainability, customer engagement, and the evolving demands of flower buyers.

Lissie emphasizes the significance of understanding pricing structures and the need for growers to communicate effectively with wholesalers to ensure a successful partnership.

Takeaways

 Lissie is a qualified florist with over five years in the industry.

Fresh Cut Flowers focuses on a streamlined wholesale approach.

The company is passionate about supporting local growers.

Quality control is a shared responsibility between growers and wholesalers.

Communication with growers is essential for successful sales.

Understanding market trends helps in planning crops effectively.

Foliage and shrubs are important for flower farmers to consider.

Sustainability is a growing concern in the flower industry.

Shipping flowers does not always require a cool chain.

Building relationships is key to success in the flower market.

Titles

 Blooming Business: Insights from Fresh Cut Flowers

The Art of Flower Wholesaling with Lissie

Sound bites

"We are passionate about our growers."

"You can't keep selling at a loss."

"It's all about relationships."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

00:58 The Journey of Fresh Cut: History and Evolution

03:21 Understanding Flower Sourcing and Popular Trends

05:22 Selling to Fresh Cut: A Grower's Guide

07:50 Quality Control and Grading in Flower Production

10:12 Essential Crops for New Growers

12:08 Long-Term Planning for Flower Farming

14:18 Commercial vs. Garden Flowers: What to Consider

17:03 Shipping and Handling of Flowers

22:08 Trade Accounts and Wholesale Operations

23:01 Sustainability in Packaging

24:53 Trends in Flower Demand

27:24 Building Relationships with Growers

29:43 Pricing and Market Dynamics

31:59 Personal Insights and Experiences

36:29 Community Engagement and Support

Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers

Address: 26B Kerwyn Avenue, East Tamaki, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: 09-918-5330

Website: www.wholesaleflowers.nz

Insta: @freshcutflowerwholesalers

Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:

·         Advertising in an episode

·         Sponsoring an episode or by

·         Buying us a Coffee (making a donation) following this link https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz

In this conversation, I speak with Cat from Electric Blooms about her journey into flower farming, the challenges of balancing a corporate job with running a flower farm, and her commitment to regenerative practices. We discuss the importance of mental health, communityengagement, and the realities of flower farming, including irrigation challenges and sales strategies.

Cat shares valuable insights for aspiringflower farmers, emphasizing the need to understand market demands and the importance of sustainable practices.

Takeaways:
Cat transitioned from vegetable gardening to flower farming during COVID.

Mental health benefits are significant when working withflowers.

Balancing a corporate job and flower farming requiresefficient time management.

Regenerative practices are a priority for Cat's farmingmethods.

Irrigation challenges are common, especially in sandy soils.

Harvesting is done strategically to ensure continuousblooms.

Community engagement through social media and localmarketing is essential.

Learning from mistakes is part of the flower farmingjourney.

Understanding customer needs is crucial for pricing andsales.

Future plans include workshops and expanding the farm'sofferings.

Electric Blooms on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558019502548

https://www.instagram.com/electricblooms/

https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBlooms

Buy me a coffee (or a tea!!) at coff.ee/FlowerFarmersinNZ.

Every donation is appreciated.

Today we explore making water soluble calcium (WCa), an excellent additive to make for your farm or garden.There's a recipe and a "How To" to help you get started on your natural farming journey, even a bit of an explanation about what fertilisers do and why it is great to be able to create your own.

If you have questions or want more info, you can comment here on the podcast or contact us via Instagram at Flower Farming in NZ.

If you want to support our work, you can make a contribution of whatever size you are comfortable with by clicking on the Buy Me A Tea link here https://coff.ee/FlowerFarmersinNZ .

Credit for the music in this podcast goes to Happy Clappy Ukulele by Shane Ivers and Happy Days by Steven O’Brien.

Welcome to our Introduction episode of our podcast Flower Farming in NZ.

In this podcast we'll dig into the rhyme and reason of growing beautiful blooms here in Aotearoa.

In future episodes we’ll explore different aspects of growing flowers in New Zealand—from practical how-to guides and seasonal tips, to interviews with local growers, florists, suppliers, and flower lovers from across the country.

If you like the content of the podcast, it would be fabulous if you could donate via Buy Me A Coffee - this is a donation for our work not a physical coffee. Lucky that as I'm a tea drinker!! https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz