Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.Today, we’re in for a real treat as we chat with the wonderful Kim Fleming from Marlston Farm Girl. Grab a cuppa, sit back, and let’s dive into Kim’s fascinating journey and insights into flower farming.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we have an engaging conversation with Kim Fleming, the vibrant force behind Marlston Farm Girl. Kim shares her inspiring journey from America to the UK, her decision to dive into flower farming, and how she built her business from the ground up during the lockdown. We explore her passion for sustainable, organic British flowers, and the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. Kim’s story is one of determination, creativity, and a relentless drive to make a positive impact in the floral industry.Key TakeawaysFrom Garden Design to Flower Farming: Kim’s transition from garden design in America to running a successful flower farm in the UK, inspired by her love for gardening and the unexpected opportunity presented during the lockdown.Sustainable and Organic Practices: The importance of growing flowers sustainably and organically, and how Kim has implemented these practices on her farm to contribute to a healthier environment.Challenges of Flower Farming: The various challenges Kim faces, including unpredictable weather, labour management, and the steep learning curve from gardening to full-scale farming.Business Growth and Strategy: Kim’s approach to scaling her business rapidly to ensure its sustainability and success, and her decision to focus on wholesale as a key market.Community and Collaboration: The significance of community and collaboration in the flower farming industry, and how Kim values and leverages these relationships to grow her business.Future Aspirations: Kim’s ambitious plans for the future, including expanding her seed company to promote the use of British-grown seeds and furthering her mission of sustainability.Personal Reflections: Insightful reflections from both Kim and Roz on their experiences in the flower farming industry, their love for what they do, and the personal fulfilment they find in their work.Connect with Kim FlemingInstagram: @Marl New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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.I'm delighted to welcome you to another blooming episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Today, I have the pleasure of chatting with Adam Marshall, known as Green Fingered City Boy on Instagram. Adam's journey from a complete novice to a gardening sensation is truly inspiring. Join us as we explore his story, his passion projects, and how he has captivated nearly 70,000 followers with his relatable and engaging content.Episode Summary:In this episode, I sit down with Adam Marshall to discuss his incredible transformation from a non-gardener to a beloved Instagram gardening personality. Adam shares how he discovered gardening just before the 2020 lockdown and how it became a vital part of his physical and mental well-being. We talk about his ambitious projects, the challenges he's faced, and how he manages to balance a full-time job with his gardening and social media commitments. Adam's journey is a testament to the therapeutic power of gardening and the impact of sharing your passion with a community.Key Takeaways:Gardening as Therapy:Adam began gardening to improve his physical health, discovering it also offered tremendous mental health benefits.From Novice to Expert:Despite starting with little knowledge, Adam's dedication and enthusiasm have made him a proficient gardener.Leveraging Social Media:By sharing his gardening journey on Instagram, Adam has built a large and supportive following, inspiring many to start their own gardening adventures.Tackling Big Projects:Adam discusses how he approaches large gardening projects and the importance of breaking them down into manageable steps.Balancing Act:Balancing a full-time job with his gardening passion, Adam shares his strategies for managing his time effectively.Community and Support:Adam emphasises the importance of building a supportive community and collaborating with others in the gardening world.Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges:From plant failures to winning a gold award at Gardeners' World Live, Adam talks about the ups and downs of his gardening journey.Get in Touch: New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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, we explore the incredible world of flower farming with Rozz Darlington, the owner of Rosaline's Flowers and The Flower Paddock in Cheshire. Rozz shares her journey from being a florist to becoming a flower grower, highlighting the difficulties she faced during Brexit and the pandemic. She discusses the challenges of maintaining quality and supply of flowers and how she transitioned to growing her own on her family’s farm.We delve into the realities of flower farming, including battling nature, the hard work involved, and the unique aspects of the business. Rozz and I exchange stories about the highs and lows of our careers, the importance of transitioning slowly into flower farming, and the sheer unpredictability of the job.Rozz also shares personal anecdotes about her experience on reality TV, after appearing on Married At First Sight, dealing with the pressures of social media, and the invaluable lessons she's learned about resilience and self-confidence. The episode is filled with laughter, insightful tips, and a deep appreciation for the beauty and challenges of flower farming.Key TakeawaysTransitioning to Flower Farming: Rozz emphasises the importance of transitioning slowly from other careers into flower farming to manage expectations and reduce the risk of failure.Challenges of Flower Farming: The conversation highlights the various challenges faced by flower farmers, including weather, pests, and the unpredictability of nature.Community and Support: The episode underscores the importance of community and having a support system, especially in the often solitary world of flower farming.Social Media Insights: We discuss the unpredictable nature of social media success and the importance of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life online.Resilience and Personal Growth: Rozz shares her personal journey of growth, dealing with public scrutiny, and how her experiences have strengthened her resolve and confidence.Practical Tips for Flower Farmers: Practical advice on how to market flowers, the benefits of participating in local markets, and the importance of keeping the business simple and manageable.Ros Darlington Resource Links:Instagram: https://www.instagra New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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 to The Cutflower Podcast!Hi everyone, Roz Chandler here, and welcome back to another inspiring episode of The Cutflower Podcast. I'm thrilled to have you join us today because we have a truly remarkable guest, Marcus Bean. Marcus is a private chef, presenter, hospitality consultant, author, and owner of a cookery school. Today, he shares his incredible journey from pig farming to culinary stardom.Summary:In this episode, Marcus Bean opens up about his unique path in the culinary world. Starting from his childhood growing up in pubs, Marcus ventured into pig farming before ultimately finding his true passion in the kitchen. Despite facing numerous challenges, his determination and love for food led him to win the UK version of Iron Chef and establish a successful career as a chef and media personality. Join us as we delve into Marcus's adventures, the lessons he’s learned, and his ongoing efforts to innovate in the food industry.Key Takeaways:Embrace Unexpected Opportunities: Marcus’s story shows the importance of seizing opportunities and adapting to life's unexpected turns.Persistence Pays Off: Despite the hurdles, Marcus’s dedication and hard work enabled him to achieve his culinary dreams.Continuous Learning: Marcus highlights the value of lifelong learning, whether through formal education, self-teaching, or hands-on experience.Passion for Food: His love for cooking is evident, demonstrating how passion can drive career success and personal fulfillment.Diverse Career Paths: From farming to sound engineering to becoming a chef, Marcus’s varied experiences have enriched his professional journey.Building Resilience: This episode underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in both personal and professional life.Networking and Mentorship: Marcus’s success is partly due to strong mentorship and networking within the industry.Balancing Multiple Roles: As a private chef, presenter, consultant, and author, Marcus shares insights on managing multiple roles and maintaining balance.Join us as we explore Marcus's fascinating journey and gain valuable insights to inspire us all to follow our passions and persevere throug New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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

Join Roz Chandler, a biennial enthusiast, as she uncovers the allure of biennials, sharing tips on their lifecycle, top picks for your cutting patch, and expert advice for maintaining a thriving garden. Dive into the world of these fascinating flowers and unlock the secrets to a flourishing garden filled with nature's splendor.

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions.If you've been following our Instagram this week, you might have noticed our battle with aphids. So, I thought it would be helpful to share some more details of biological control in gardening.Biological control involves the use of natural enemies to tackle garden pests. From introducing predators to employing pathogenic nematodes, we explore how these methods offer effective and eco-friendly pest management solutions.Key Takeaways:Benefits of Biological Control: Unlike chemical pesticides, biological controls leave no residues and cause no harm to plants. Once established, natural enemies can multiply and reduce pest populations to acceptable levels.Understanding Predators:Predatory and parasitoid biological controls, though not providing instant results, offer long-term solutions. Timing is crucial, as introducing them before heavy infestation ensures effectiveness.Seasonal Considerations: Glasshouse predators and parasites thrive in warm conditions, with ideal breeding temperatures between late March and September. Reintroduction may be necessary annually.Compatibility with Pesticides: Predators and parasites are sensitive to pesticides, necessitating their avoidance for several weeks before introducing biological controls. Fatty acid-based pesticides can be used with caution closer to introduction.Common Garden Pests and Solutions: Aphids, thrips, vine weevils, slugs, and red spider mites are prevalent nuisances. We explore natural remedies such as ladybirds, lacewings, predatory mites, and nematodes to combat these pests effectively.Practical Tips: Daily monitoring, manual removal of infested leaves, and encouraging natural predators like birds contribute to pest management efforts.To explore further, visit Ladybird Plant Care - www.ladybirdplantcare.co.uk, where Tessa can assist you in selecting the right biological controls for your garden.Embrace sustainable gardening practices with biological control methods, ensuring a thriving garden ecosystem without harmful chemicals. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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 to The Cutflower Podcast! Today, we're immersing ourselves in the captivating realm of tulips. You might think the tulip season is over, but as we wrap up the season here in the United Kingdom, I'm already gearing up for next year's bloom.In this episode, I take you on a journey through the tulip fields of Holland, where I discovered the true essence of these mesmerizing flowers. From meeting suppliers to selecting the finest bulbs, every moment was filled with awe and inspiration.Join me as we delve into the fascinating life cycle of tulips, from bulb to bloom. Did you know that the Dutch have been growing tulips since the 17th century? With 90 percent of their bulbs exported annually, tulips truly hold a special place in the heart of Dutch horticulture.Explore the seven stages of tulip growth, from planting to regeneration, and uncover the secrets to cultivating these stunning flowers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a budding enthusiast, there's something magical about witnessing the beauty of tulips in full bloom.Discover the diverse varieties of tulips available, from single earlies to lily-flowered and parrot tulips. With over 3,000 different types to choose from, each with its own unique charm, there's a tulip for every taste and occasion.As we prepare for the upcoming season, I invite you to join our waitlist for our tulip catalogue and immerse yourself in the world of floral beauty. Whether you're looking to brighten up your garden or create stunning floral arrangements, tulips are sure to delight.Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Cutflower Podcast. Until next time, happy gardening!Key Takeaways:Tulips hold a rich history dating back to the 17th century, with the Dutch leading as the largest exporters of bulbs.The life cycle of tulips encompasses seven stages, from planting to regeneration, offering a fascinating journey of growth and renewal.Explore the diverse varieties of tulips available, from single earlies to parrot tulips, each boasting its own unique beauty.Join the waitlist for our tulip catalogue and discover the joy of cultivating these stunning flowers in your own garden. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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, to another blooming episode of the Cutflower Podcast! I'm absolutely delighted to share some exciting insights from my recent masterclass session on flower farming. If you're passionate about cultivating blooms and building a flourishing business in the floral world, you're in the right place. So, grab your favourite cuppa and let's dive into the wonderful world of flower farming together!Summary and Key Takeaways:In today's episode, I'm thrilled to give you a sneak peek into my transformative masterclass, the "Growth Club," where we nurture budding flower farmers and floral enthusiasts to reach their full potential. Here's what you can expect:Crafting a Comprehensive Business Strategy: We delve deep into the art of business strategy, from defining your brand to honing your marketing tactics. With my guidance, you'll develop a robust roadmap to success in the floral market.Mastering Social Media: In today's digital age, social media is a game-changer for floral businesses. I'll share my top tips and tricks for harnessing the power of platforms like Instagram to showcase your blooms and connect with your audience like never before.Planning Your Content Like a Pro: Content is king, and I'll show you how to rule the digital landscape with engaging and consistent communication. From blog posts to Instagram stories, you'll learn how to captivate your audience and grow your floral empire.Joining a Supportive Community: The Growth Club isn't just a course—it's a vibrant community of fellow flower enthusiasts. By joining us, you'll gain access to a supportive network of like-minded individuals, ready to cheer you on and share their wisdom every step of the way.Whether you're dreaming of starting your own flower farm or looking to take your existing business to new heights, the Growth Club is your ticket to success. So, what are you waiting for? Let's blossom together and unlock your flower farming potential!Cart Closes 30th April 2024https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/bloomingbusinesscourse2024  New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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.Hello and welcome back to The Cutflower Podcast! I'm your host, Roz Chandler. Today, we have a fantastic episode lined up for you, featuring the wonderful Sue Reed, the chairperson of the Working for Gardeners Association, or WFGA. Sue has an incredible journey to share, from a career in telecoms to her passion for horticulture. So, grab your favourite cuppa and let's dive right in!Summary:In this episode, Sue Reed joins us to discuss her remarkable transition from the telecoms industry to becoming deeply rooted in the world of gardening. As the chairperson of the WFGA, Sue sheds light on the association's impactful work in offering training and support within horticulture. We delve into the challenges and growth of the WFGA, their partnership with Horatio's Garden, and the increasing importance of therapeutic horticulture, especially in the wake of COVID-19. Sue also shares her personal career challenges, inspirations, and her upcoming workshop on forest bathing.Key Takeaways:Sue's inspiring journey from telecoms to horticulture.The diverse training opportunities offered by the WFGA.The challenges and successes in finding training gardens for WFGA trainees.The impactful partnership between the WFGA and Horatio's Garden.The rising emphasis on therapeutic horticulture and its benefits.Sue's personal insights into career challenges and inspirations.Sue Reid Resource Links:Website: https://www.wfga.org.uk/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wfga.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wfga_uk/ New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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.Hello, wonderful listeners! I'm thrilled to introduce our guest for today's episode of The Cutflower Podcast: the incredible Adam Forbes. Adam shares his captivating journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurial freedom. Let's dive in and discover the twists and turns of Adam's remarkable transformation!Summary:In this episode, Adam Forbes takes us on a compelling voyage through his corporate odyssey and his bold leap into the realm of entrepreneurship. With over two decades spent in the corporate trenches, Adam unveils his decision to break free from the shackles of corporate life and embark on a path of self-discovery and reinvention. From grappling with identity crises to charting a course towards personal fulfilment, Adam's story resonates with authenticity and inspiration. Join us as we unravel the secrets of Adam's corporate escapology and glean invaluable insights for our own journey towards freedom and fulfilment.Key Takeaways:Courageous Career Transition: Explore Adam's bold decision to depart from the security of corporate life and venture into the unknown territory of entrepreneurship, igniting a journey of profound transformation.Navigating Financial Realities: Gain insights into the financial considerations and strategic planning essential for navigating the transition from stable corporate income to the unpredictable realm of entrepreneurship.Embracing Self-Discovery: Delve into Adam's introspective journey of self-discovery, where he grappled with questions of identity, purpose, and personal fulfilment beyond the confines of corporate conventions.Overcoming Challenges: Learn from Adam's experiences as he confronts the challenges of imposter syndrome, financial uncertainty, and the emotional rollercoaster inherent in carving out a new path.Building Resilience: Discover the importance of resilience and adaptability in weathering the inevitable storms of entrepreneurship, and how embracing responsibility fosters a newfound sense of empowerment and freedom.Adam Forbes Resource Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corporateescapologist/Website:  New Catalogue Out Now, https://plantsofdistinction.co.uk  use the code CUTFLOWER30 for 30% off your order. First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels.  https://www.facebook.com/groups/thecutflowerkickoff2025 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