Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of our recent flower retreat in Spain, where three industry pros - specialising in floristry, flower farming, and social media for creatives - came together to teach, guide, and collaborate with an incredible group of flower lovers.

We dive into:

The diverse backgrounds of our retreat attendees

The magic of cross-industry collaboration

Key floristry techniques and design inspiration shared

Business-building strategies for sustainable growth in the floral world

How teamwork and community made this event unforgettable

Real feedback from participants—and what’s next for future retreats!

Whether you're a florist, flower grower, or dreaming of starting your floral journey, this episode is full of heartfelt insight and business-building inspiration.

To be first to know about our Uk retreat join our waitlist here: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/retreat25waitlist

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz sits down with Sarah Turner, a graphic designer turned budding flower farmer. Sarah shares her journey of balancing a creative career while nurturing a deep passion for flowers, discussing the therapeutic benefits of gardening and the lessons learned from growing blooms from seed to stem.

Together, Roz and Sarah explore the practical and emotional aspects of flower farming, from the challenges of selling locally grown flowers and accessing land, to imposter syndrome and finding community support. They discuss the rising appreciation for British-grown flowers, the often-overlooked value of perennials and foliage, and Sarah’s future dream of opening a “pick-your-own” flower farm. With honest insights and hopeful aspirations, this episode is a must-listen for anyone dreaming of digging deeper into a life with flowers.

Key Takeaways:

• Flower farming can be a powerful creative outlet and source of mental wellness
• Transitioning careers takes courage and clarity - but it's possible
• Locally grown, seasonal flowers are gaining momentum with consumers
• Foliage and perennials are crucial (and often underrated) elements in flower farming
• Imposter syndrome is real, especially for new growers - but community helps
• Sustainable practices and education are cornerstones of long-term flower success
• Finding land and balancing life are ongoing challenges in the flower farming journey
• Passion and persistence can turn a hobby into a meaningful business

Find out more about Sarah and her journey here

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Welcome back to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I'm your host, Roz Chandler, and today we're diving into the lush world of foliage. Join me as we explore the top picks for your cutting patch and unravel the beauty and versatility these green treasures bring to floral arrangements.

Summary:
In this episode, we embark on a journey through the top 15 foliage varieties for your cutting patch. From the timeless elegance of myrtle to the vibrant hues of Ninebark and the delicate charm of Snowberries, each foliage offers unique characteristics and seasonal appeal. Along the way, we uncover essential growing tips, such as the importance of planning for year-round foliage availability and the patience required for certain species to reach maturity.

Key Takeaways:

Abundant Growth: Cultivate more foliage than you think you'll need, replenishing your supply annually to meet demand.
Long-Term Investment: Be patient with species like eucalyptus, which may take years to mature but offer enduring beauty.
Seasonal Diversity: Select varieties like Hibernum Tinnus for their ever-changing colours and textures, providing year-round interest.
Speciality Species: Explore unique finds such as Myrtle, Ninebark, and Snowberries to add depth and character to your arrangements.
Community Engagement: Join the Cut Flower Collective Facebook group to share your favourite foliage varieties and exchange gardening insights with fellow enthusiasts.
Join me in discovering the botanical wonders that foliage brings to floral design, and let's cultivate a vibrant tapestry of greenery in our cutting patches! All the links are below. 

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this heartfelt episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Roz chats with Laura from Flowers by the Brae, a former office worker turned passionate flower farmer and florist based in Errol, Scotland. Laura shares the highs and lows of leaving a traditional career to grow blooms in the Scottish soil. She opens up about the realities of flower farming - from unpredictable seasons and sustainability challenges to the joy of connecting with customers through storytelling. Together, Roz and Laura explore the emotional side of floristry, the importance of local partnerships, and how Laura balances her growing business with family life. This episode is an honest and inspiring look into what it really means to build a business from the ground up - flowers, failures, fulfillment and all.

Key Takeaways:

• Laura transitioned from a desk job to flower farming and floristry.
• Sustainability remains a core focus in her business practices.
• Building strong relationships with local venues has supported her growth.
• Managing social media is a key (and often challenging) part of running a flower business.
• Growing seasons are unpredictable, requiring flexibility and resilience.
• Storytelling helps Laura connect emotionally with her customers.
• The flower farming journey is filled with lessons—both humbling and rewarding.
• Balancing family life and business is a continual process.
• Community support plays a vital role in small-scale flower farming success.

Find out more about Laura here

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this inspiring episode, Roz welcomes Donna Sutton, a career-changer who swapped accountancy for horticulture. Donna shares her journey into gardening, her experience with the WRAG scheme and the challenges and triumphs of finding joy and purpose in a new field. Together, Roz and Donna discuss the evolution of The Granary Garden, Donna’s commitment to sustainable cut flower growing, and the role of community and social media in modern horticulture. From career pivots to preparing for Gardeners’ World Live, this episode is packed with encouragement for anyone pursuing a passion for plants.

Key Takeaways:

Donna transitioned from accountancy to horticulture through the WRAG scheme.

Social media has played a key role in sharing her journey and connecting with the gardening community.

The WRAG scheme provides practical experience and valuable exposure in horticulture.

Donna highlights the power of taking small steps toward big changes.

Community and mentorship are vital for new growers and career changers.

She’s preparing a feature for Gardeners’ World Live — a testament to following your passion.

Donna emphasizes the joy of continuous learning and adapting through the seasons.

Find out more and connect with Donna here 

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this soulful and inspiring episode, Roz is joined by renowned potter, gardener, and author Frances Palmer. Frances takes us on a journey from her New Jersey childhood to the peaceful, flower-filled studio she now calls home in Connecticut. She shares the origins of her creative practice, her connection to the earth through ceramics and gardening, and the personal stories behind her beloved books, Life in the Studio and Life with Flowers.

This conversation blooms with wisdom on the interplay between floral design and pottery, the beauty of seasonal routines, and the importance of daily creative practice. Frances reflects on the lessons found in both soil and clay—from the joy of experimentation to the humility of failure. They also explore how photography plays a role in capturing her work, how she manages the logistics of a global pottery business, and why sustainability and tradition matter more than ever.

Whether you’re a creative, a gardener, or simply someone who loves beauty, this episode offers a gentle reminder that meaning often comes from the rhythm of the everyday.

Key Takeaways:

• Frances Palmer is a celebrated potter and passionate gardener.
• Her books merge memoir, art, and practical advice on creative living.
• Floral design and ceramic work are deeply intertwined in her process.
• Seasonality shapes both her artistic and gardening practices.
• Shipping handmade pottery internationally comes with challenges.
• Daily routines and early mornings are vital to her creative rhythm.
• Gardening teaches patience, experimentation, and resilience.
• Photography helps her convey feeling and story in her work.
• Traditional techniques and sustainability are core values in her art.
• Nature, legacy, and beauty are at the heart of her creative life.

You can find out more about Frances here 

You can pre-order her new book Life with Flowers here

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode, Roz chats with John and Annabel from Middleton Nurseries - a passionate, family-run business that has been thriving since 1975. Known for their deep love of salvias, John and Annabel share the story of their nursery, from humble beginnings to becoming salvia specialists. The conversation delves into the unique qualities of salvias as cut flowers, the intricate process of breeding new varieties, and the joys and hurdles of running a seasonal, weather-dependent business. They also explore the pride that comes from maintaining a multi-generational business and the importance of community support in the gardening world.

Key Takeaways:

• Middleton Nurseries has been a family-run nursery since 1975.
• Salvias have become popular for their versatility and vibrant blooms.
• Breeding new salvia varieties requires time, experimentation, and dedication.
• Proper growing conditions include good drainage and timely pruning.
• Echinacea is another rising star in the nursery alongside salvias.
• Weather significantly impacts the success of seasonal nursery operations.
• Community engagement and loyal customers are vital for small businesses.
• The family takes immense pride in their horticultural legacy.

🎧 Tune in to discover the magic behind salvias, family traditions, and the beauty of building something that grows through generations.

Find out more about Middleton Nurseries here.

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode, Roz sits down with award-winning garden designer and author Polly Wilkinson to explore the art and heart behind meaningful garden design. With years of experience and a beautifully honest approach, Polly shares how she transitioned into the world of garden design, how her background in marketing shaped her business, and why flexibility has been key to her career success.

The conversation weaves through Polly’s thoughts on designing gardens that blend beauty with practicality—spaces that work for families, evolve with lifestyles, and invite people to connect with nature. Polly also talks about the relationship between interior and exterior design, her experiences showcasing at the Chelsea Flower Show, and the joy of creating gardens with real purpose—including her upcoming project designing a therapeutic space for spinal injury patients.

If you’re curious about garden design, career pivots, sustainable living, or designing a life that works for you, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and grounded.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

🌿 How Polly transitioned into garden design and built an award-winning career
 🌼 The role of marketing in growing a creative business
 🌳 Balancing beauty and functionality in family-friendly gardens
 🌾 The parallels between interior and garden design
 🪴 Insights from exhibiting at the Chelsea Flower Show
 🌻 Why sustainability and eco-conscious design matter now more than ever
 🧑‍🦽 Designing with empathy: Polly’s project for spinal injury patients
 🏡 Childhood dreams, career changes, and lessons in adaptability
 📚 Behind the scenes of her book, How to Design Your Garden
 🌸 Why women’s voices are vital in the future of horticulture

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

Find out more about Polly and her work here: https://studiopollyanna.co.uk/

First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels. 

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

Episode Summary:

In this inspiring episode, Roz chats with London-based florist Lucy Maw, whose designs are grounded in her commitment to using 100% British-grown flowers. Lucy shares her transition from the world of fashion to floristry, and how her passion for gardening evolved into a thriving floral business.

The conversation explores the realities of sourcing British flowers, the importance of relationships with local growers, and the growing demand for sustainable blooms. Lucy reflects on the challenges of marketing, the nuances of working seasonally, and how collaboration and community are vital to the future of British floristry.

If you’re a florist or creative who cares about sustainability, seasonality, and style—this episode is packed with wisdom and warmth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🌿 Why Lucy transitioned from fashion to floristry
 🌸 The realities of sourcing 100% British-grown flowers
 🌻 How seasonality shapes her design process and client work
 🌾 The power of building long-term relationships with flower farmers
 🤝 Why collaboration across the industry is essential
 📣 The ongoing challenge of marketing and visibility
 🪴 How Lucy educates clients on sustainability and flower sourcing
 💬 The importance of community support in creative businesses
 🎨 How her unique style blends natural beauty and bold choices
 🧭 What flexibility looks like when designing with local blooms

You can find further information about Lucy here: www.willowandmaw.co.uk

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow florists and flower lovers!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.

In this episode, Roz sits down with Ellen Frost, owner of Local Color Flowers, to explore the world of locally sourced, sustainable floristry. With 17 years of experience, Ellen shares her journey from gardening enthusiast to floral business owner and the challenges of maintaining a 100% local sourcing model.

They dive into the environmental impact of imported flowers, the logistics of working with local flower farmers, and why education is key to changing industry practices. Ellen also discusses the growing demand for sustainable flowers, her ideas for improving flower sourcing efficiency, and how community engagement is shaping the future of floristry.

Whether you're a florist, flower farmer, or flower lover, this episode is packed with insights on how to build a sustainable floristry business while staying true to your values.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🌸 How Ellen’s journey into floristry began with a love for gardening
🌿 Why sustainability has been a core principle of her business from day one
📚 The importance of educating customers about local flowers
✈️ The carbon footprint of imported flowers and the waste in the floral industry
💐 How building relationships with flower farmers improves quality and supply
🚛 The logistics of sourcing locally and the challenges florists face
📈 The financial realities of running a local flower business
🤝 How community engagement and education are shaping the future of floristry
💡 Why florists should share knowledge and resources to strengthen the industry

Connect with Ellen Frost & Local Color Flowers:

📍 http://locoflo.com/

Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow florists and flower lovers!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• 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