The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Cut Flower Farming Podcast for Flower Farmers & Backyard Gardeners

There are people who grow dahlias, and then there are people who spend two decades quietly shaping what dahlias can become. Kristine Albrecht is one of those people. From a weed-choked quarter acre in Santa Cruz, California, Kristine has built an extraordinary breeding program, growing 1,500 seedlings a year and selecting only about 50 to carry forward. Her cultivars (all marked with the K.A. prefix) have won some of the highest honors in the dahlia world, including multiple Daryl Hart Awards and the Stanley Johnson Medal. She was the first California breeder to receive that honor. In this conversation, Kristine walks us through how she got started (giant pumpkins played a role), what hand pollination actually looks like in the field, why she keeps organza bags on everything in August, and what traits she's breeding for right now. We also get into soil health, virus testing, the Juicy Fruit gopher trick, and why your soil test matters more than any recipe you'll find online. Key Takeaways Hybridizing is a numbers game and a patience game. Kristine starts with 1,500 seedlings and keeps about 50 by season's end. Hand pollination gives you more control over traits. Open pollination from bees adds genetic diversity. Both are valuable. First-year seedlings are incredibly vigorous, and most are virus-free when grown from seed. About 87% of older dahlia varieties carry virus, which is why new, clean varieties matter so much. There is no universal soil recipe for dahlias. Get a soil test and feed based on what YOUR soil actually needs. Kristine practices no-till farming with cover crops, building soil biology over time rather than tilling each year. She carries a bleach solution in a wearable pack to sanitize cutting tools between every plant. Patience is everything. Some breeding goals take 4 years. Some take 15.Resources & Links Mentioned Santa Cruz Dahlias website: santacruzdahlias.com Kristine's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/santacruzdahlias/ Kristine's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kristinealbrecht3560 Book: Dahlia Breeding for the Farmer, Florist, and the Home Gardener https://amzn.to/4sEjn1Q Book: Dahlias: Seed to Bloom https://amzn.to/4myYF25 Stonehouse Dahlias (licensed seller of K.A. varieties. Sales are every other Saturday from March 21 through May 16.) https://stonehousedahlias.com/Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/04/16/ep-91-dahlia-hybridizing-with-kristine-albrecht/Guest BioKristine Albrecht is a dahlia hybridizer and grower at Santa Cruz Dahlias in Santa Cruz, California. She's been growing dahlias since 2006 on a quarter-acre suburban plot that's home to over 2,600 dahlias. Kristine is vice president of the Monterey Bay Dahlia Society, author of two dahlia books, and a tireless advocate for excellence in dahlia cultivation. Her K.A. cultivars have earned national recognition including multiple Daryl Hart Awards, the Stanley Johnson Medal (she was the first California breeder to receive it), and the Les Connell Medal. Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter

She left medicine to grow flowers at her kitchen table. Thirty years later, Sarah Raven has written fourteen books, built a garden empire at Perch Hill, and changed how a generation thinks about cut flowers. In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Sarah to talk about her journey from wildflower-obsessed child to one of the most respected voices in the gardening world. They dig into the science of cutting (and why your garden actually gets better when you harvest from it), the magic of dahlia hybridizing, lessons learned from contaminated compost, and the heart behind Sarah's newest book, A Year of Cut Flowers. What you'll hear in this episode: Why "liveheading" is Sarah's secret to a more productive garden The pinching rule that changed everything: "If in doubt, pinch out" How the local flower movement is reshaping the industry on both sides of the Atlantic What Sarah's new book offers gardeners at every level (and why her own daughter finally picked it up)If this episode inspires you, share it with a friend who loves flowers. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. Resources & Links Mentioned Sarah Raven's Website: sarahraven.com Sarah's Book: A Year of Cut Flowers https://amzn.to/4vhXc41  Sarah's Podcast: Grow Cook Eat Arrange Sarah's Instagram: @sarahravenperchhill | @sarahravensgardenGuest BioSarah Raven is a gardener, teacher, author of fourteen books, and the founder of a gardening brand rooted at Perch Hill in East Sussex, England. Trained as a doctor, she transitioned to full-time growing after the birth of her second child. For more than thirty years, she has championed seasonal, locally grown cut flowers through her writing, teaching, and her weekly podcast, Grow Cook Eat Arrange. Her latest book, A Year of Cut Flowers, is a month-by-month guide drawing on three decades of growing, trialing, and arranging at Perch Hill. Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/04/08/ep-90-sarah-raven-a-year-of-cut-flowers/ https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/the-backyard-bouquet-podcast/

She started with zero qualifications, a personal trainer husband, and six dahlia tubers from the hardware store. Now Katie and her husband Rob run Little Lyndoch Flower Farm in Australia's Barossa Valley, growing just three crops on under an acre, and building a business that actually brings them joy. In this episode, Katie shares how they sold everything during COVID to fund the farm, why growing fewer crops made them more profitable, and what it really looks like to build something from the ground up with your partner. What you'll hear in today's episode: Why Katie and Rob narrowed their entire farm down to just three crops, and how that one decision changed everything The story of Uncle Lucky's greenhouse and how six dahlias became 3,500 How they figured out outsourcing when they couldn't keep wearing all the hats Katie's honest take on marketing, showing up authentically, and why the quick 3-second reel always outperforms the one that took 2 hoursResources & Links Mentioned Little Lyndoch Flower Farm: littlelyndochflowerfarm.com.au Instagram: @littlelyndochflowerfarmAbout Katie:Katie is the co-founder of Little Lyndoch Flower Farm, a seasonal flower farm and creative studio in the Barossa Valley, South Australia. Alongside her husband Rob, Katie has built a business that includes wholesale cut flowers, dahlia tuber and ranunculus corm sales, floral design for weddings, and a 3-day retreat called Bloom. She's currently developing the Bloom Academy for online learning. With no formal training in floristry, farming, or business, Katie and Rob are completely self-taught and share their journey openly to inspire growers and creatives around the world. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/04/08/ep-89-flower-farming-in-australia-little-lyndoch-flower-farm/ If this episode resonates with you, would you share it with a flower friend? And if you haven't already, subscribe so you never miss a conversation. Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter

Chelsea Willis is the kind of farmer who notices the frogs in the dahlias. She's the owner of Sweet Delilah Farm on Sauvie Island, just 15 minutes outside Portland, Oregon. But her path to farming wasn't traditional. With a background in psychology and youth counseling, Chelsea originally wanted to find a way to get young people out on the land, because she saw how much easier it was for them to open up when their hands were busy and their feet were in the dirt. Then a piece of land became available. And then another. The second one, a former lavender you-pick farm, she closed on in two and a half weeks. She'd never planned to buy property at that moment. But it felt right. Today, Sweet Delilah Farm is a space where community gathers. Chelsea hosts dahlia workshops, floral design classes, plant dye days, and end-of-season u-picks. She's growing over 88 varieties of sweet peas for seed production, tending close to 250 roses, and dreaming about bringing yoga and meditation back to the farm. For Chelsea, farming isn't just about production. It's about presence, connection, and leaving space for whatever needs to come up, whether that's a pest issue in the field or a conversation that needs to happen. If this episode stirs something in you, I'd love for you to share it with a fellow flower friend. And if you haven't already, subscribe so you never miss a new conversation. Resources and Links Mentioned Sweet Delilah Farm: sweetdelilahfarm.com Instagram: @sweetdelilahflowerfarm Wild Craft Studio (Portland, plant dyeing classes) Sweet pea varieties mentioned: Piggy Sue, King's Coronation, Prince of Orange Rose varieties mentioned: Dainty Bess, Coco Loco, All Dressed Up, Fun in the SunGuest Bio: Chelsea Willis is the owner and farmer behind Sweet Delilah Farm on Sauvie Island in Portland, Oregon. With a background in psychology, trauma work, and meditation, Chelsea brings a deeply human approach to everything she grows. Her farm is home to workshops, intimate weddings, u-pick events, plant dye classes, and a beloved flower truck. She grows over 88 varieties of sweet peas, tends close to 250 roses, and is passionate about creating space where people can connect with the land and with each other.Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/03/17/ep-88-sweet-delilah-farm/Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter

Some of the best flower farming stories start with a moment that changes everything. For Jenny Rae Swan, it was losing her mother at a young age and realizing that the only place she felt truly at peace was in a garden. That grief, paired with a wild amount of courage, led her to quit a stable career in higher education, rent a small plot on a local blueberry farm, and start growing flowers with no land of her own and very little money. She told everyone she knew she was going to be a flower farmer. Most of them thought she was out of her mind. Ten years later, Flower Well is an ever-evolving operation with multiple acres, a dedicated team of women, a thriving wholesale business, a wedding design studio, dahlia tuber sales, holiday wreath classes, and a garden-inspired design style that's earned her a reputation for movement, texture, and color. Jenny Rae is proof that you don't need to have it all figured out to start. You just need to start. Key Takeaways You don't need land, money, or a perfect plan to begin. Jenny Rae started on a rented plot with savings from selling antiques on Etsy. Telling people your dream out loud builds accountability. Jenny Rae told everyone she was going to be a flower farmer before she had any idea how. Farming and floristry feed different parts of the creative soul. Jenny Rae needs both to feel fulfilled. Hiring help is scary but essential. Your team members will bring strengths you don't have. The real cost of flower farming is far beyond what most people expect. Tractors, delivery vehicles, equipment, land preparation. It adds up fast. Gardens are the greatest design teacher. Jenny Rae designs by thinking about how a garden moves, clusters, and breathes. Joy is the through-line. On the hardest days, an evening walk through the flowers brings everything back.If this episode encourages you, would you share it with a friend who needs to hear Jenny Rae's story? And if you haven't already, subscribe so you never miss a new episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Guest BioJenny Rae Swan is the owner and founder of Flower Well, a cut flower farm and floral design studio in the countryside of Rochester, New York. A first-generation farmer florist, Jenny Rae started Flower Well in 2015 on a rented plot at a neighboring blueberry farm. Her work is known for its garden-inspired design, focus on color and texture, heirloom varieties, and the way her arrangements move. She recently welcomed her second son and celebrated 10 years of growing flowers. Connect with Jenny Rae at Flowerwell: Website: https://www.flowerwellny.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerwellny Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/03/12/ep-87-jenny-rae-swan-10-years-of-flowers-failures-and-joy/ Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter

If you've ever looked at a dahlia and wondered "what if I could create my own variety?" Kamille is the person you need to learn from.   Her session is unlike anything else at the summit. She's taking us on the journey of a seedling from its first bloom to its official debut and showing how the art of hybridizing is so much more than science.  It's about mentorship, community, and opening your garden to others.  What I love about Kamille's approach is that she believes the most beautiful varieties come from shared wisdom. Growing something new doesn't have to be a solo journey.   Kamille is speaking on Day 2 AND joining our live Q&A panel that afternoon so you'll have the chance to ask her your questions directly.  📅 Day 2 | March 4th | 1:00 PM PST  📅  Q&A Panel | March 4th | 3:00 PM PST   🎟️ Live Access: $99 | All Access: $199 Learn more and grab your ticket: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit Connect with Kamille on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamillesflowers/

Charlotte is a 5th generation farmer and mindset coach and there's a reason she's one of our first speakers on Day 1 of The Profitable Dahlia Summit. Everything starts with mindset. You can learn every strategy in the world for selling dahlias, but if you don't believe you're worth charging for them, none of it matters.Charlotte is going to get your head right so you can take full advantage of every single session that follows. She's tackling the "broke farmer trap," the pricing guilt, the scarcity thinking, all of it. And she's replacing it with the confidence you need to actually build a business that pays you.If you've ever thought "I just feel bad charging people for flowers"... Charlotte has something to say about that. Charlotte is speaking on Day 1  of the summit, March 3rd  at 9:00 AM PST Grab your summit ticket at the link in the show notes. Tickets start at $99. https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit Connect with Charlotte Smith: https://www.instagram.com/charlotte.m.smith/

In this bonus episode, I'm sharing my Instagram Live conversation with Heather Cain of Petal Pink Flower Farm. We talked all about selling dahlias to florists and she shared so much that I know you're going to want to hear her full session at the summit.Have you ever thought about selling your dahlias to florists but weren't sure where to start? What do they actually expect? How do you price for wholesale? How do you even approach them?Heather is answering all of it at the Profitable Dahlia Summit. From what florists look for when they buy dahlias, to how to scale your operation, price your blooms, and pack them like a pro.If you're looking for a consistent, reliable revenue stream for your dahlias, selling to florists could be the game changer. And Heather is the person to learn from. Heather is speaking at the Profitable Dahlia Summit on March 3rd at 2:15 PM PST where she's going even deeper on this topic. The Profitable Dahlia Summit is March 3-5 with 13+ speakers covering every path to profitable dahlias. Tickets start at $99.  Grab your ticket at the link in the show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/theprofitabledahliaschedule Connect with Heather of Petal Pink Flowers: https://www.instagram.com/petalpinkflowers/

In this bonus episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcst, I'm sharing my Instagram Live conversation with Marryn Mathis of The Farmhouse Flower Farm. We talked about getting ready for her tuber sale season, how it feels like a total rollercoaster, and some of Marryn's favorite dahlias this year. Marryn is speaking at the Profitable Dahlia Summit on March 4th and she's teaching how to host a dahlia tuber sale that sells out in a single day.  Grab your summit ticket at the link in the show notes. Tickets start at $99. https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit Connect with Marryn of The Farmhouse Flower Farm: https://www.instagram.com/thefarmhouseflowerfarm/

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, I’m joined by Melissa Stewart of Sweet Bloom Farm, a boutique dahlia farm in Battle Ground, Washington. Melissa’s journey began the way so many of ours do, with a few mystery dahlias from a garden center and a spark she couldn’t ignore. What started as six blooming plants in her suburban backyard quickly grew into 20 varieties… then 50… then 100… and eventually into a two-acre farm growing 4,000 dahlias. In this conversation, we talk about: Scaling from 600 to 4,000 plants in one season Why their second year on the farm was their hardest The soil test that saved their crop Farming no-till in rocky Pacific Northwest soil Selling dahlia tubers online and shipping nationwide Whether the dahlia market is oversaturated Why local flowers matter more than ever The community that flowers create beyond the bloomsMelissa shares openly about balancing a corporate job, raising two children, building a farm with her husband, and learning when to ask for help. If you’ve ever wondered whether your backyard dahlias could become something more, this episode will inspire you. Book: Weeds & What They Tell Us: https://amzn.to/3ZHkWQO Connect with Melissa: Website: www.sweetbloomfarm.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetbloomfarm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetbloomfarm Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/02/24/ep-86-sweet-bloom-farm/

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we’re heading south to Australia to visit Florelie, a small-scale but highly productive specialty cut flower farm near Ballarat, Victoria. Jennifer is joined by flower farmer and dahlia breeder Lorelie Merton, who shares how a gifted bunch of homegrown peonies sparked a journey that led her from speech pathology to full-time flower farming. Today, Florelie grows flowers on just 2.5 acres of a 20-acre property, with 20,000 dahlias, a robust dahlia breeding program, and a thriving tuber business serving Australian gardeners and florists. In this conversation, Lorelie opens up about breeding dahlias specifically for cut flower performance, scaling thoughtfully, rotating crops to protect soil health, and building a true family farm alongside her husband Ethan and their three children. She also shares behind-the-scenes insight into dahlia breeding timelines, seedling selection, tuber sales, and why dahlias are such a unique crop for agritourism and education. Whether you’re a backyard gardener, aspiring flower farmer, or deeply obsessed with dahlias, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest perspective. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How Florelie grew from a hobby into a full-time flower farm Why dahlias became the farm’s primary crop What it takes to manage and evaluate thousands of dahlia seedlings How Lorelie breeds dahlias specifically for cut flower use How crop rotation and paddock rest protect long-term soil health The role Lorelie’s husband Ethan plays as farm manager and agronomist How Florelie offers workshops, tuber sales, and afternoon tea events in the dahlia fields***Just a quick note about today's episode: We had a bit of connection lag while recording from across the world, so there are just a few spots where we ended up talking at the same time as we couldn't hear one another. It’s minor, but I wanted to mention it in case you notice in this episode. The conversation is still great and I know you're going to love hearing from Lorelie! Connect with Lorelie & Florelie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/florelieseasonalflowers/ Website: https://florelie.com.auSign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/ 

What’s possible when you start with just a small bit of earth—and a love of flowers rooted in childhood stories? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Fawn Rueckert, founder of Sego Lily Flower Farm, a thriving suburban flower farm growing on just one-third of an acre in Utah’s Salt Lake Valley. Fawn’s journey into flower farming began long before her first seed tray—from listening to The Secret Garden as a child to learning from generations of women who gardened before her. What started as a backyard cutting garden evolved into a farmers market business, a regional cut flower plug program serving over 100 growers, hands-on education for backyard gardeners, and leadership as a founding member and president of the Utah Cut Flower Farm Association. In this conversation, we talk about growing cut flowers in small spaces, knowing when to pivot as your business evolves, and why community matters so deeply in flower farming. We also dig into lisianthus—a flower many growers struggle to start from seed—including what it really needs to germinate, why it’s so slow, and when it makes sense to grow from seed versus buying plugs. Whether you’re growing on an eighth of an acre, dreaming of your first farmers market, or just trying to grow better lisianthus this season, this episode will leave you inspired to try what’s possible—right where you are. Links Sego Lily Flower FarmWebsite: https://www.segolilyflowerfarm.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/segolilyflowerfarm/ Snuck Flowers at Snuck FarmWebsite: https://snuckfarm.com/pages/snuck-flowers The Backyard Cut Flower Garden Coursehttps://snuckfarm.com/products/backyard-cut-flower-garden-course-in-collaboration-with-sego-lily-flower-farm-spring-2026 Utah Cut Flower Farm AssociationWebsite: https://www.utahflowerfarms.comSign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/ 

What if your garden could feed your family, support pollinators, and bring more joy into your everyday life — all at the same time? In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Tasha Medve, creator of The Purposeful You and author of the bestselling book The Purposeful Gardener. Tasha shares how her journey into purposeful gardening began during early motherhood, when making conscious, sustainable choices for her family became a priority. What started as a small garden and a desire to live more intentionally grew into a thriving backyard oasis — and eventually, a global community of gardeners seeking beauty, abundance, and connection. In this conversation, we explore: How to design a garden that works for real families and busy lives Why growing food and flowers together creates healthier, more resilient gardens Raised beds, vertical growing, pumpkin arches, and her famous Wall of Peas Companion planting strategies that reduce pests naturally Incorporating native plants and pollinators for long-term garden health Gardening as a source of healing, meaning, and joy — even through seasons of griefWhether you’re growing in two raised beds or dreaming of a larger backyard transformation, this episode will encourage you to start where you are, trust the process, and create a garden that truly feels like home. Connect with Tasha Medve & The Purposeful You Blog/Website: https://www.thepurposefulyou.com/ Instagram: @thepurposefulyou Facebook: The Purposeful You Join the Waitlist for Tasha’s Garden Club: https://forms.gle/u7L73xvQxw4VXmqj6Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2026/01/21/the-purposeful-gardener/  Mentioned In Today’s Episode: The Dark Side to Floristry Article: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/11/theres-a-dark-side-to-floristry-are-pesticides-making-workers-seriously-ill-or-worse Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit*** The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/ 

Welcome to Season 3 of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast — and to the first episode of 2026. To kick off the new year, I’m doing something a little different. In this episode, I’m sharing the full replay of a live planning workshop I hosted this past weekend called How to Plan Your Most Profitable Dahlia Season Yet. Growers joined live from all over the world — Australia, Canada, Germany, France, New Zealand, the UK, and across the U.S. — and the response made it clear this was too valuable to let disappear once the workshop ended. If you’re growing dahlias or running a flower farm and want 2026 to feel more focused, profitable, and aligned, this episode will help you step out of overwhelm and into clarity. What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeIn this live workshop replay, we walk step-by-step through how to: Reflect on your 2025 growing season — what worked, what didn’t, and what you learned Clarify what you want 2026 to look and feel like, both personally and financially Build a realistic, actionable plan instead of guessing or reacting mid-season Map your year season by season so you’re not scrambling later Choose the right revenue streams for your farm and stay laser-focusedWhile this training was created specifically for dahlia growers, the planning framework applies to all flower farmers who want to grow with intention and profit in mind. Mentioned in This Episode The Profitable Dahlia Summit (March 3–4, 2026) A 2-day virtual summit focused on real business strategies for dahlia growers — pricing, selling, marketing, tuber sales, farm events, and more.Grab your ticket here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/ There is a free 2026 planning workbook that goes along with this episode. You can download it here and follow along at your own pace: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/2026workbook Your Next StepIf you make it through this entire workshop, I encourage you to choose one action to take next — even a small one. Whether that’s: Tracking your numbers Clarifying your revenue goals Committing to selling instead of giving your flowers awayMomentum comes from action. I’d love to hear what your next step is — you can message me on Instagram or leave a review and share what stood out for you. Let’s Make 2026 Count 2026 has been declared the International Year of the Female Farmer, and I truly believe this can be your most profitable and aligned growing season yet — if you plan for it. Grab the workbook, pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea, and let’s start planning. Welcome to Season 3 of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast.

What if caring for land goes beyond soil tests, nutrients, and visible inputs? In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer is joined by Brittney Herrera, founder and creative director of Thunder Egg, to explore the concept of geotuning—a practice often described as acupuncture for the land. Through her work, Brittney helps harmonize land and spaces by identifying and correcting geopathic stress, subtle disruptions in the Earth’s natural field that can impact people, plants, animals, and the overall vitality of a place. Brittney recently worked with Jennifer to tune her new farm property, and after experiencing the process firsthand, Jennifer felt this was a conversation worth sharing with the flower-growing and land-stewarding community. Together, they keep the conversation grounded and practical, discussing how geopathic stress can show up on farms and gardens, how geotuning works in real spaces, and how this approach can complement regenerative agriculture and soil-first practices. They also explore the role of water, copper, frequency, and ancient land wisdom—and how listening more deeply to the land can support long-term resilience and harmony. This episode is an invitation to curiosity. Whether you’re a flower farmer, gardener, or someone who feels deeply connected to the land you care for, this conversation offers a new lens for understanding what it means to truly listen to a place. Connect with Brittney Herrera & Thunder EggThunder Egg: https://www.thunderegg.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thunder_egg_collaborative/ Geotune: https://www.geotune.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/geotune_energy/ Brittney Herrera: https://www.brittneyherrera.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittney_herrera_designer/ Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Braiding Sweetgrass: by Robin Wall Kimmerer: https://amzn.to/4s5HQhw Sign up for our podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit*** The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. 🎟️ Early bird tickets start at just $49 through January 11, 2026. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/  **This episode may contain affiliate links. If you choose to use them, it helps support the podcast at no additional cost to you.*

What if growing dahlias wasn’t about doing everything perfectly—but about showing up, finding joy, and learning to flourish right where you are? In today’s episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Anne Long of The Dahlia House, a longtime dahlia grower, educator, and creative who has spent more than two decades growing flowers—and helping others discover that you don’t need a huge farm, endless time, or a picture-perfect life to fill your days with beauty. This honest, heartfelt conversation weaves together stories of resilience, loss, hope, and humor, as Anne shares how growing dahlias became both her creative outlet and her life’s work. From devastating setbacks with wireworms and disease, to learning how to build a flower business that fits real life, Anne offers wisdom that will resonate deeply with gardeners, flower farmers, and anyone feeling stretched thin. This episode is a reminder that flowers don’t ask for perfection—only your presence. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: How growing dahlias can teach resilience through life’s hardest seasons Why perfectionism can hold us back in both the garden and business What flowers reveal about presence, hope, and living within our limits How to build a dahlia-focused business that aligns with your values and capacity Why self-care matters just as much as soil care How boundaries, clarity, and joy lead to more sustainable success with flowersShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/12/23/ep-80-growing-dahlias-with-anne-long/Connect With Anne & The Dahlia House: Website: https://thedahliahouse.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.dahlia.house YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDahliaHouse2020Mentioned in today’s episode: Veda Austin- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedaaustin_water/ ***Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit*** The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. 🎟️ Early bird tickets start at just $49 through January 11, 2026. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/  **Function Health** – comprehensive blood testing that helps you understand what your body actually needs. Currently on sale for $365 (normally $499)** 👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=JGULIZIA10&_saasquatch=JGULIZIA10 **This episode may contain affiliate links. If you choose to use them, it helps support the podcast at no additional cost to you.* Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter

How do you grow flowers in a region known for long winters, short seasons, and frequent frosts? In this episode, we are joined by Annie Amrich of Janniebird Farm, a Zone 4 flower farmer thriving in the high-altitude climate of Gunnison, Colorado. Annie shares how she forces thousands of tulips each year, grows without greenhouses, and keeps flowers blooming nearly year-round in a place where frost can arrive any month of the year. Annie’s journey — from athletic training and medical sales back to the creativity she grew up with — is a beautiful reminder that it’s never too late to follow what feels true. She opens up about leaning into hardy crops, building community in a small mountain town, and developing a new perennial field designed for workshops, gatherings, and connection. What You’ll Learn in Episode 79: How Annie grows successfully in Zone 4 without tunnels or greenhouses What it takes to force thousands of tulips for winter and holiday blooms How she markets flowers in a small town and builds loyal community support Lessons from rehabilitating new soil and planning a perennial-focused expansion Encouragement for anyone growing — or dreaming of growing in a cold climateShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/12/23/ep-79-zone-4-flower-farming-with-janniebird-farm/ Connect with Annie: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janniebirdfarm/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janniebirdfarm Website: https://www.janniebirdfarm.com/ Connect with Jennifer, Host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Join Us At The Profitable Dahlia Summit The first-ever virtual summit focused exclusively on growing dahlias for profit is here! Whether you’re dreaming of a small side hustle, saving for your next vacation, or building a full-fledged dahlia focused business — this 2-day online virtual event will show you how. Join us March 3–4, 2026 to learn from experienced dahlia growers who are selling bouquets, tubers, CSA shares, event tickets, and more — and doing it profitably. You’ll walk away with real strategies to turn your passion into income, even if you're just getting started. 🎟️ Early bird tickets start at just $49 through January 11, 2026. Save your spot here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/profitabledahiliasummit/  *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how a simple backyard garden can grow into a thriving YouTube channel that inspires gardeners everywhere? In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Claudia of In The Garden with Claudia, a Zone 8b gardener in Oregon who transformed a small suburban space into a blooming cut flower haven. What began as a creative outlet during the pandemic soon became a beloved YouTube channel where gardeners turn for honest tips, beautiful garden tours, and a dose of encouragement. Claudia shares how she started gardening only a few years ago, the steps she took to rebuild her clay soil, why dahlias became her signature flower, and how she balances content creation with a full-time job. She also opens up about perfectionism, embracing failure, following big dreams, and staying true to your creative path. If you have ever felt intimidated by gardening or wondered whether to share your own story online, this conversation will inspire you to begin right where you are. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/12/05/ep-78-in-the-garden-with-claudia/ Connect with Claudia:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@InTheGardenWithClaudiaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthegardenwithclaudia Join the waitlist for the first ever Profitable Dahlia Summit: The first ever Profitable Dahlia Summit is happening March 3 to 4, 2026 as a virtual two day event. It will feature an incredible lineup of growers, educators, and experts who will walk you through what it takes to grow, market, and sell dahlias with confidence. Join the waitlist to get early access to tickets, bonus trainings from speakers, and the best pricing. If you want to learn from some of the most inspiring voices in the dahlia world, add your name today: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/np92jqeu5a Connect with Jennifer, Host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to build a creative and meaningful life in the floral world, especially when your journey starts far from where you end up? In this episode, we are joined by Julio Freitas of The Flower Hat, a Montana-based floral designer and flower farmer whose work has influenced and inspired thousands. Julio shares how he went from hotel management to running a thriving floral design studio and one acre flower farm, and how following small sparks of curiosity eventually led him into a life fueled by creativity and connection. In Episode 77, you will hear about: How Julio found the confidence to step into his future self Why saying yes opened unexpected doors in his floral career What it takes to grow premium flowers in Montana’s short and intense season How weddings, farming, and business growth shaped his mindset The importance of letting go, pivoting, and embracing the seasons of life Where joy and clarity are leading him nextJulio also shares a personal story about rediscovering what truly matters to him and how tuning into nature, rest, and intention transformed the way he sees his work. Whether you are a flower farmer, floral designer, or a creative who wants to build a more aligned and fulfilling path, this conversation offers practical wisdom, gentle reminders, and heartfelt insight. Flowers may be the medium, but this episode is really about growing through every season. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/12/04/ep-77-flower-farming-and-floral-design-in-montana/ Connect with JulioWebsite: https://www.theflowerhat.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflowerhat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theflowerhat Connect with Jennifer, Host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how to confidently sell your flowers and build a thriving flower business?In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Lennie Larkin, flower farmer, educator, and founder of Flower Farming for Profit. Lennie shares her expert advice on pricing, mindset, and how to approach flower sales with clarity and confidence. Tune in to Episode 76 to learn: How to know when you’re ready to start selling your flowers The biggest myths about flower sales (and what actually works) Mindset shifts that help you charge your worth How to attract loyal customers who value your story What to expect at the upcoming Sell Your Flowers SummitWhether you’re dreaming about turning your garden into a business or already running a small flower farm, this conversation will help you sell your flowers with purpose and profitability. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/11/11/ep-76-how-to-sell-your-flowers-with-confidence/ Learn more and connect with Lennie:👉 Website: flowerfarmingforprofit.com👉 Instagram: @flowerfarming.forprofit👉 Sell Your Flowers Summit: Join the Summit: https://flower-farming-for-profit-academy.mykajabi.com/syfs 💐 About the Sell Your Flowers Summit:The Sell Your Flowers Summit is a free three-day online event designed to help small-scale and backyard flower farmers sell more flowers with confidence. Hosted by Lennie Larkin of Flower Farming for Profit, the summit features leading voices in flower farming, sales, and marketing. Each session is short, actionable, and focused on real strategies that work in today’s floral marketplace. 👉 Learn more and register for the summit: https://flower-farming-for-profit-academy.mykajabi.com/syfs Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review?  I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

As another growing season comes to a close, Jennifer invites you to pause and reflect on the power of gratitude. In this solo episode, Jennifer shares how gratitude can carry us through each stage of growth, from the early seeds of an idea to the quiet rest of winter. She looks back on this past year of farming with honesty and perspective, offering gentle reminders that growth often happens in the unseen moments. Through her reflections, Jennifer encourages you to find gratitude not only in the beauty of what has bloomed, but also in the challenges that helped you grow. Whether you’re wrapping up your season or already dreaming about spring, this episode offers a moment to slow down, look back, and give thanks for all that has taken root this year. Connect with Jennifer, Host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this heartfelt conversation, Jennifer sits down with Nicole Pitt, the flower farmer and creative behind Flower Hill Farm and Boon Street Nursery in upstate New York. Nicole is also the voice and heart behind the popular Flower Hill Farm YouTube channel, where she shares her authentic journey as a farmer, creator, and community builder. Nicole opens up about how life’s unexpected seasons have shaped her perspective, what it means to grow through change, and how the flower community has supported her through it all. From rebuilding her business with renewed purpose to manifesting hope and growth — even in challenging times — Nicole’s story is a beautiful reminder of resilience and connection. You’ll also hear about her plans for a new hoop house, her vision for expanding Boon Street Nursery (thanks to a major grant!), and her exciting new project — a brand-new podcast launching later this month. Connect with Nicole: Flower Hill Farm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlowerHillFarm Flower Hill Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flowerhillfarmny/ Flower Hill Farm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flowerhillfarmny/ Flower Hill Farm Website: https://www.flowerhillfarmny.com/Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/11/06/ep-74-nicole-pitt-of-flower-hill-farm/ Mentioned in this episode: Farmer’s Friend pre-burned landscape fabric: https://www.farmersfriend.com/p/quick-plant-fabric?rid=floweringfarmhouseConnect with Jennifer, Host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

As the flowers fade and the farm quiets down for winter, Jennifer reflects on what this past year of rebuilding her farm has taught her about patience, gratitude, and growth. Inspired by the timeless reminder that “it’s not the destination, it’s the journey,” she shares how slowing down and being present has brought new meaning to the work of tending both the land and the heart. This episode is an invitation to pause and reflect, to notice the beauty in what’s already growing, to find joy in the process, and to move forward with faith even when the outcome isn’t yet visible. Jennifer shares lessons learned from transforming a fallow field into a thriving flower farm, from the small wins to the moments that stretched her the most. Along the way, she offers reflections to help you reconnect with your own journey, the one that’s unfolding right now between the planting and the bloom. Whether you’re a flower farmer, gardener, or simply navigating a season of change, this episode is a gentle reminder that growth takes time and that the real magic isn’t found at the finish line but in who we become along the way. Podcast Listeners Enjoy 7 Days of Growth Day FREE: Try the GrowthDay App, Jennifer’s favorite tool for journaling, tracking habits, and staying grounded in personal growth https://app.growthday.com/signup/referral-trial/floweringfarmhouse Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/10/25/ep-73-journey-to-bloom/ Connect with Jennifer: Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/ Follow the Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet *** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this inspiring episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Jessica Eckford-Aguilera, the visionary founder of The Flower Summit and Newcastle Food & Flower Markets in Australia. Jessica shares how her lifelong passion for creativity and community led her to build one of Australia’s most beloved floral destinations, complete with a flower market, café, and floral design school. That journey eventually blossomed into the creation of The Flower Summit, a global platform celebrating women in floriculture. Together, Jennifer and Jessica explore: 🌸 Jessica’s leap from corporate events to full-time floristry at just 23 years old 🌸 How Newcastle Food & Flower Markets grew into a thriving hub for education, weddings, and local blooms 🌸 The story behind The Flower Summit, a first-of-its-kind event uniting female florists, growers, and creatives around the world 🌸 Why local flowers and global collaboration matter more than ever 🌸 What attendees can expect when they gather in Newcastle, Australia in November 2026 If you love hearing stories of creativity, connection, and women building beauty through flowers, this episode will fill your heart with inspiration and new ideas for your own journey. 🌼 Connect with Jessica Eckford-AguileraSummit Website: https://flowersummit.com.auInstagram: https://instagram.com/theflowersummitNewcastle Food & Flower Markets: https://www.foodandflowermarkets.com.au/ 🎟️ Tickets are now on sale for the first-ever Flower Summit, taking place November 24–25, 2026 in Newcastle, Australia. Join us in Australia: https://flowersummit.com.au/events/flower-summit/ Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/10/22/ep-72-the-flower-summit/  🎧 Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more inspiring stories from flower farmers, gardeners, and dreamers who are growing beauty and purpose one bloom at a time. Sign up for The Backyard Bouquet E-Newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

The first frost often marks the end of the flower growing season, and it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. In this short solo episode, Jennifer invites flower farmers and gardeners to slow down and look back on the year with honesty and gratitude. She shares how to “thin the weeds” in both the garden and in life so you can focus on what truly thrives. Learn how to rest your garden, reset your mindset, and prepare for a new season of growth. Whether you grow flowers for profit or for joy, this gentle conversation will remind you that every ending creates space for new beginnings and that letting go is part of flourishing. ✨ In this episode: Practical ways to reflect after the first frost What to release in your garden or business before winter How to plan now for a thriving, more intentional next seasonShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/10/17/ep-71-end-of-season-reflection-thinning-the-weeds/ Read: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown Sign up for The Backyard Bouquet Newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast Connect with Jennifer | The Flowering Farmhouse Podcast Website: thefloweringfarmhouse.com/the-backyard-bouquet-podcast/ Instagram @thefloweringfarmhouse Instagram @thebackyardbouquetpodcast

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia of The Flowering Farmhouse sits down with Shannon Allen of Bloom Hill Farm and Lyndsay Biehl of Wildroot Flower Co. — the powerhouse duo behind The Dirt on Flowers Podcast. Shannon and Lyndsay pull back the curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving flower farm. From humble beginnings to leading two of the most recognized farms in the industry, they share honest insights about growth, grit, and learning through every season. You’ll hear how they’ve turned passion into profitable, purpose-driven businesses while staying true to their roots — and why embracing imperfection and community has been key to their success. They also give us a behind-the-scenes look at DirtCon, their new virtual summit designed to connect, educate, and inspire flower farmers from around the world. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting or scaling a flower farm, this episode will leave you feeling encouraged, grounded, and ready to dig into your own next chapter. In this episode: How Shannon and Lyndsay built successful flower farms from the ground up The mindset and resilience it takes to grow season after season Lessons learned from the real side of flower farming The vision and purpose behind DirtCon, their virtual flower farming summitEpisode 70 Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/10/15/ep-70-behind-the-dirt-on-flowers-podcast/ Links mentioned in this episode: The Dirt on Flowers Podcast The Dirt on Flowers: Tulip Episode Bloom Hill Farm Wildroot Flower Co.🌼 Learn More About DirtConReady to connect with other flower farmers and grow your business? 🌸Join DirtCon, the virtual summit created by The Dirt on Flowers team — featuring expert speakers, real-world strategies, and inspiration for every stage of your flower farming journey. 👉 Click here to learn more and grab your ticket. (affiliate link) 🎧 Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more inspiring stories from flower farmers, gardeners, and dreamers who are growing beauty and purpose one bloom at a time. Sign up for The Backyard Bouquet Newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast

What happens when flower farming and painting come together? In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with artist and flower farmer Valerie Miller of Steel Cow Lavender Farm in Iowa. Valerie is a gifted painter and the founder of Art Garden Therapy, a monthly painting membership that invites people of all skill levels to discover the joy of creativity through simple, step-by-step lessons. Valerie shares how her journey began with painting cows, evolved into creating vibrant flower and farm-inspired art, and how her lavender farm continues to inspire her work. She opens up about the story behind Art Garden Therapy, why flowers—especially lavender, peonies, and dahlias—show up so often in her art, and how farming and painting both create powerful spaces for connection and creativity. 🌿 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Valerie and her family built Steel Cow Lavender Farm What inspired her transition from animals to flower paintings The vision behind Art Garden Therapy and how it helps beginners paint with confidence Why flowers play such a central role in her art and teaching How farming and painting both serve as pathways to creativity and joy🌸 Connect with Valerie Miller: Steel Cow Lavender Farm: https://www.steelcowlavenderfarm.com Art Garden Therapy Membership: https://artgardentherapy.com Steel Cow Art & Paintings: https://www.steelcow.comIf you love flowers, painting, and stories of creativity rooted in nature, this conversation will inspire you to pick up a brush—or plant a seed. 📌 Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! Sign up for The Backyard Bouquet Newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

What does large-scale flower farming really look like in the United States? In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Madison Milgard, Vice President of Brand and Market Strategy at Continental Floral Greens (CF Greens) — the largest U.S.-based flower farm. Madison shares the inspiring story of her family-owned business, from its roots in Washington’s noble fir forests to stewarding thousands of acres across Oregon, California, Florida, and beyond. She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how Continental Floral Greens produces millions of stems, the innovations driving sustainability, and why greenery is the unsung hero of floral design. You’ll learn about: How Continental Floral Greens grew from a small tree farm to the largest U.S.-based flower farm What sustainability looks like at scale — from recyclable packaging to stewarding 10,000 acres of noble fir New dahlia trials with extended vase life and what it means for florists and regional growers Why collaboration across farms, wholesalers, and organizations like SustainaBloom is key to the future of floriculture Advice for growers who dream of scaling their flower farm (and why resilience + the right team are essential)Whether you’re a backyard grower, a budding flower farmer, or simply fascinated by the floral industry, this conversation will expand your perspective on what’s possible — and how sustainability and innovation are shaping the future of flowers. 📍 Connect with Continental Floral Greens: Website: https://www.cfgreens.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfgreens Email Madison: [email protected] the show?Please rate & review The Backyard Bouquet Podcast—it helps more flower lovers find us and keeps these conversations blooming!

If you’ve ever had more flowers than you know what to do with—or wished you could make a special bouquet last forever—this episode will spark your creativity. In this conversation, I’m joined by Kate Punnett, founder of The August Press, a professional flower press studio dedicated to turning fresh blooms into timeless art. With over a decade as an organic urban flower grower and sustainable florist, Kate shares her best tips for pressing flowers successfully, from choosing the right blooms to avoiding mold, storing delicate petals, and creating pieces that last. We talk about: The easiest (and trickiest) flowers to press How to capture every stage of a bloom’s life cycle in art Common mistakes that lead to mold — and how to avoid them Sustainable ways to preserve bridal bouquets Why pressing flowers is the perfect slow art for our fast-paced worldWhether you’re a flower farmer, gardener, or someone who treasures the beauty of a single bloom, this episode will inspire you to see your flowers in a whole new way. 🌸 Learn more about Kate & The August Press Website: https://www.theaugustpress.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaugustpress Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/08/15/ep-67-how-to-press-flowers-like-a-pro/ 🎧 Listen & Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Your Favorite Podcast App 📬 Let’s Stay Connected Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Website: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/the-backyard-bouquet-podcast/ 💬 Enjoying the show? Please rate & review The Backyard Bouquet Podcast—it helps more flower lovers find us and keeps these conversations blooming!

If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, self-doubt, or pricing your flowers with confidence, this episode is for you. In Episode 66 of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Charlotte Smith — a farmer, coach, and host of The Profitable Mindset Podcast — to talk about the mindset shifts that can make or break your flower farming business. Charlotte shares how her own farming journey led her to coaching, why your thoughts shape your results, and how to overcome limiting beliefs like “people won’t pay that price” or “my field’s not good enough.” You’ll learn why perfectionism holds so many farmers back, how to stop looping in overwhelm, and simple questions that can help you get unstuck and grow with purpose. You’ll also hear about Charlotte’s free upcoming Master Class — 5 Mistakes Farmers Make That Keep Them Broke — happening August 18–19. Don’t miss your chance to learn from one of the most respected voices in the industry. 🌸 In this episode, you’ll learn: How mindset directly affects your profitability Common limiting beliefs that hold flower farmers back Why building a local customer base starts offline Charlotte’s “belief triad” and how it can change your business What to do when perfectionism and self-doubt show upWhether you’re just starting out or you’ve been farming for years, this is a conversation that will leave you feeling grounded, inspired, and ready to take the next step. 🎧 Listen now and grab the link to Charlotte’s free Master Class in the show notes! Show Note: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/08/06/ep-66-charlotte-smith-mindset-for-flower-farmers/ Follow Charlotte Smith On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlotte.m.smith/ Listen To The Profitable Mindset Podcast: https://charlottemsmith.com/podcast/ Join Charlotte August 18th & 19th: FREE Master Class: 5 costly mistakes that are keeping your farm broke Sign Up HERE: https://courses.3cowmarketing.com/five-mistakes Join Farm Marketing Mastery - break out of marketing misery: https://charlottemsmith.com/mastery  Sign up for The Backyard Bouquet Newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Jenny Jonak of Dragon Song Farm in Oregon’s Willamette Valley to explore how one flower farmer is blending sustainable flower farming, community-supported agriculture (CSA), and policy advocacy to create real impact. Jenny shares how she grew her CSA flower farm from a few bouquets for friends into a thriving market business—and why she now champions water rights reform and land access for small farmers. We also dive into her innovative pressed flower jewelry, neurodivergent-friendly farm systems, and real-world tips for succeeding at farmers markets. Whether you're a flower farmer, backyard grower, or passionate advocate for local agriculture, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and heartfelt perspective. What You’ll Learn: How Jenny scaled Dragon Song Farm from a backyard garden to a full-time CSA and market farm Her journey as a neurodivergent farmer and systems that support her success Tips for creating high-impact farmers market bouquets (and maximizing cooler space!) The surprising legal hurdles small farms face around water rights in Oregon How pressed flower jewelry became a profitable and creative side of her farm businessResources & Links Mentioned: Visit Jenny’s website: dragonsongfarm.com Follow Jenny on Instagram Learn more about the August Press for pressed flowers: https://www.theaugustpress.com/ Explore Friends of Family Farmers – Oregon-based advocacy and resources: https://friendsoffamilyfarmers.org/ Connect with NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service): https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/ Learn about ASCFG – Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers: https://www.ascfg.org/Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/08/01/ep-65-how-jenny-jonak-of-dragon-song-farm-is-growing-more-than-just-flowers/ 🎙️ Tune in and discover how one woman is growing more than just flowers—she’s cultivating change. Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/backyardbouquetpodcast ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In Episode 64 of The Backyard Bouquet, flower farmer and educator Brooke Palmer of Jenny Creek Flowers returns to the podcast—one year after making the leap from part-time growing to full-time cut flower farming. After balancing a teaching career and a growing flower farm for several years, Brooke decided in 2024 to hang up her classroom keys and pour her energy into her blooms. Now, she’s reflecting on what it’s really been like to turn her side hustle into a full-time flower farming business. We talk about everything from launching successful workshops and peony you-picks to navigating unexpected crop failures and mindset struggles. Brooke shares the strategies she’s leaned on, the rhythms she’s found, and how she’s redefining success on her own terms. If you're dreaming of going full-time with your farm or simply want an honest look at life beyond the leap, this episode is for you. Key topics: The emotional and practical realities of going full-time Building a flower business around workshops and U-picks Managing time with intention (and being done by noon!) The power of mindset coaching and weekly reflection Letting go of comparison and choosing sustainability over scale🌸 Connect with Brooke: Website: jennycreekflowers.com Instagram: @jennycreekflowers Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/07/24/ep-64-brooke-palmerfrom-side-hustle-to-full-time-flower-farmer/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In Episode 63 of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Diane Szukovathy of Jello Mold Farm to explore the critical role of floral standards in flower farming. Diane shares how she went from planting zinnia seeds as a child to co-founding the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market and co-authoring Floral Standards — a groundbreaking guide for harvesting and handling over 230 floral crops. We dig  into: Growing pristine, sustainable flowers and achieving Salmon-Safe certification The inspiring creation of the Seattle Wholesale Growers Market, a farmer-owned co-op Why harvest timing and quality control are key to professional flower sales How Floral Standards is becoming the go-to guide for farmers, florists, and collectivesWhether you’re growing in your backyard or managing a flower farm, this episode will help you cut better stems, build stronger systems, and elevate your craft. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/07/01/ep-63-floral-standards-for-farmers/ 🌿 Order the Floral Standards book: Seattle Wholesale Growers Market 📬 Connect with Diane: Visit jellomoldfarm.com and click “Contact Us” Follow Seattle Wholesale Growers Market on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seattlewholesalegrowersmarket/ Seattle Wholesale Grower's Case Study: https://jellomoldfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2021_Seattle-Wholesale-Growers-Coop-Case-Study_final-low-res.pdf 📌 Please Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

What does it take to grow cut flowers for over 40 weddings a season—while running a farm as a family of four? In Part 2 of our conversation, Jennifer Joray of Eastern River Farm returns to share the details of how her family built a thriving, regenerative flower business in Maine. From crop planning to bouquet-making, and from packing systems to building in family rest, Jennifer walks us through what it really takes to succeed in growing cut flowers for weddings. You’ll hear: 🌸 How they scaled from 8 to 65 weddings—and why they chose to scale back 💐 The top crops they rely on to meet wedding demand (think delphinium, mountain mint, lisianthus & more) 🪴 How they grow nearly everything from seed—including delphinium! 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Their entire family’s role in floral design, prep, and packing 🌱 What regenerative flower farming means to them—and why protecting family rhythms is part of it Whether you’re dreaming of your own flower farm or looking to refine your wedding offerings, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical systems, and heartfelt wisdom. 🎧 Missed Part 1? Listen to Ep. 61: Jennifer Joray of Eastern River Farm on Flower Farming, Lyme Disease, & Finding Healing Through Nature Connect with Jennifer Joray: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/easternriverfarm/  Website: https://easternriverfarm.comSign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

What happens when a simple question—“What about farming?”—leads to a total life transformation? In this powerful episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer Joray of Eastern River Farm shares her family’s courageous journey from city living to flower farming on a 20-acre homestead in Maine. But their story goes far beyond soil and seeds. Jennifer Joray opens up about the challenges of navigating Lyme disease, the unexpected health impacts of ticks on the farm, and how her family found healing through nature, herbal remedies, and a more intentional way of living. You’ll learn: 🌼 Why they had left behind urban life for a flower farm 🦠 How they manage Lyme disease with herbs instead of chemicals 🐦 The beauty of rebuilding an ecosystem and welcoming back wildlife 🌱 What it means to farm in harmony with the land 🌸 How healing the land helped heal their family  Whether you’re a flower farmer, backyard gardener, or someone looking to live a more natural, grounded life—this episode is full of wisdom, resilience, and inspiration. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 📖 Healing Lyme by Stephen Buhner 🌿 Pacific Botanicals – Trusted source for clean, dried herbs 🌿 Strictly Medicinal Seeds – Medicinal seeds from herbalist Rico Cech 🌿 Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine – Online courses by Juliet Blankespoor 🌿 Zack Woods Herb Farm – Vermont-based medicinal herb farm 🌿 The Organic Medicinal Herb Farmer by Jeff & Melanie Carpenter Connect with Jennifer Joray: 📸 Instagram: @easternriverfarm 🌐 Website: easternriverfarm.com Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/06/12/ep-61-jennifer-joray-farming-with-lyme-disease/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter *** Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet ***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this powerful episode of The Backyard Bouquet, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with Nicole Sardo of Midnight Magic Garden—a former stop-motion artist who left her dream job at Laika Studios after a life-altering autoimmune diagnosis. Nicole shares her remarkable journey of healing through gardening, how she's building a flourishing micro flower farm in her front yard, and how she’s now uplifting other growers through her initiatives: Small Farms Big Orders and a fascinating Heirloom Dahlia Study. If you've ever faced a turning point, wondered how to pivot with purpose, or needed a reminder that beauty can take root even in your hardest seasons—this one’s for you. 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Midnight Magic Garden Website: https://www.midnightmagicgarden.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midnightmagicgarden/ Small Farms Big Orders Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/984326049857334 Heirloom Dahlia Study Interest Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6PR6PHGbMDihX3vgkR6gpoCF-9ZH3LgU5TBf6KyjLbU4-Yw/viewform Dahlia World Database: http://www.dahliaworld.co.uk/dahliadirectory.htm📌 Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet, we are joined by Frances Palmer—renowned potter, gardener, photographer, and author—to celebrate the release of her newest book, Life With Flowers. Known for her iconic handmade vessels and stunning floral photography, Frances shares how a life rooted in creativity, cultivation, and intention can lead to unexpected beauty and joy. In their conversation, Jennifer and Frances explore: The inspiration and creative process behind Life With Flowers How gardening, ceramics, and photography intersect in Frances’s daily life Lessons learned from decades of self-taught artistry and flower growing Why imperfection and process are central to creativity The role of seasonal rhythms in her work—and her favorite flower to grow (even if it's a challenge) How tending a garden supports mental health, mindfulness, and connection with the earth Tips for photographing flowers using natural light and simple setups at homeWhether you’re a flower lover, artist, or someone yearning to create a slower, more beautiful life, this episode is a nourishing reminder to keep growing—one bloom, one pot, and one season at a time. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/05/20/ep-59-frances-palmer-life-with-flowers/ Purchase Life With Flowers: https://amzn.to/44LtaLj Connect with Frances:   Website: francespalmerpottery.com   Instagram: @francespalmer ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Debra Prinzing, founder of the Slow Flowers Movement and co-author of The Flower Farmers: Inspiration and Advice from Expert Growers. Debra shares her journey from writing The 50 Mile Bouquet to founding the Slow Flowers Movement—a movement that champions local, seasonal, and sustainable flowers. In this inspiring conversation, Debra talks about the importance of supporting local flower farmers, how storytelling is transforming the floral industry, and the lessons she’s learned from interviewing flower farmers across North America. Whether you're a flower lover, a backyard gardener, or aspiring flower farmer, this episode is full of valuable insights on how to embrace the beauty and purpose of local blooms. Tune in to learn: What the Slow Flowers Movement is and how it’s changing the way we source flowers The stories behind The Flower Farmers book and how it highlights the lives of flower growers How the power of local flowers extends beyond beauty to healing and community-building Practical advice for new and experienced flower farmersJoin us for an insightful discussion that will leave you inspired to support local flowers and consider the bigger picture behind every bloom. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/05/13/ep-58-the-slow-flowers-movement/ Learn More: Slow Flowers Society: https://www.slowflowerssociety.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slowflowerssociety/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debraprinzing/ Purchase The Flower Farmers Book: https://store.abramsbooks.com/products/the-flower-farmers***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

This week on The Backyard Bouquet, we’re celebrating a century of spectacular blooms with Schreiner’s Iris Gardens, one of the most iconic names in American flower farming. For over 100 years, the Schreiner family has been growing and breeding world-class bearded iris—a legacy that began in Minnesota and eventually found its forever home in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. In this conversation, Ben Schreiner and Liz Schmidt offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to run a multi-generational iris farm, from hybridizing breathtaking new varieties to caring for over 150 acres of flowers. Whether you’re dreaming of adding irises to your garden or curious how these resilient blooms perform as cut flowers, you’ll walk away inspired to see bearded iris in a whole new light. We talk about: How bearded iris earned their place in the world of cut flowers What makes these perennials so tough, low-maintenance, and stunning Tips for planting, dividing, and growing irises in Zones 3–9 The decade-long process behind breeding a brand-new iris Why Schreiner’s believes beauty and legacy can bloom side by sideThis is a celebration of history, horticulture, and the flowers that keep on blooming—season after season, generation after generation. Learn more about Schreiner's Gardens: https://www.schreinersgardens.com/ Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/05/06/ep-57-celebrating-100-years-of-growing-bearded-iris-with-schreiners-gardens/ ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer invites you to step away from the rush of the season and pause at the garden gate. With raw honesty and gentle encouragement, she explores what it means to be in a season of becoming—when everything feels tender, stretched, and unfinished. Through the metaphors of seeds cracking open, the lotus rising from the mud, and the relentless (but sacred) push of spring, this episode offers a soulful reminder: you're not behind, you're in the middle of something meaningful. Whether you're planting your first seeds, rebuilding something from scratch, or simply navigating the unknown, let this be your permission to slow down, trust the process, and grow at your own pace. https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/the-backyard-bouquet-podcast/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we’re joined by one of the most respected voices in the cut flower industry—Dave Dowling. With over 20 years of experience as a flower farmer and now a trusted mentor to growers across North America, Dave shares insights you won’t want to miss. We talk about how he got started growing flowers (before Google existed!), what helped him turn a few backyard beds into a thriving year-round business, and the advice he gives most often to new flower farmers. From choosing the right flowers to grow, to selling at markets, working with florists, and applying for grants—this episode is packed with practical tips and hard-won wisdom. Whether you're dreaming of starting a flower farm or already deep in the growing season, Dave’s insights will help you build a more sustainable and profitable business—while remembering to enjoy the flowers along the way. In this episode, we talk about: How Dave got started in flower farming (and the book that sparked it) Tips for selling at farmers markets and to florists What makes a flower profitable—and what to grow more of The biggest mistakes new growers make Dave’s favorite flowers for market (and why lisianthus shines) How to apply for NRCS high tunnel grants The growing strength of the local flower movement Why collaboration beats competition in our industry What Dave hopes his legacy will be🌼 Want to connect with Dave? Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davemdowling/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaveDowlingBallHort Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/04/29/ep-55-how-to-grow-and-sell-cut-flowers-successfully-with-dave-dowling/ ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this special Earth Day episode of The Backyard Bouquet, flower farmer and garden educator Jennifer Gulizia shares a deeply personal reflection on growing in harmony with the earth—and what it really means to be a steward of soil, beauty, and biodiversity. This solo episode blends story, science, and soul. Jennifer shares a poem Where Flowers Lead and shares the regenerative journey that led her family to restore 20 acres of neglected farmland—guided by flowers, rooted in soil, and inspired by hope. Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/04/29/ep-54-earth-day-flower-farming-reflection/ 🌿 Inside the episode, you'll hear: What Earth Day means through the lens of a gardener and flower farmer How Kiss the Ground and Common Ground confirmed her family's decision to become stewards of their new farmland The exact moment she stopped spraying neem oil after seeing bees sleep in her dahlias How a few books reshaped her thinking Simple, impactful actions gardeners can take to care for the earth Behind the scenes of her upcoming documentary, Where We Bloom🎥 Watch the documentaries mentioned: — Kiss the Ground (Amazon Prime): https://amzn.to/42qveXH — Common Ground (Amazon Prime): https://amzn.to/449Lxtf 📚 Explore the books referenced: — Dirt to Soil by Gabe Brown — For the Love of Soil by Nicole Masters — The Kindest Garden by Marian Boswall — Seeds of Hope by Jane Goodall 🌼 Learn more about our documentary film: Visit The Flowering Farmhouse to learn more about our documentary film: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/10/28/regenerative-flower-farm-documentary/ 🎧 Whether you’re walking your garden rows, composting your kitchen scraps, or simply reflecting on how to live with more intention this season, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that small acts matter. That flowers aren’t just beautiful—they’re powerful. And that where flowers lead, healing follows. ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Jessica Hall, co-founder of Harmony Harvest Farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. What began as a simple question during a family beach vacation—“Where do florists get flowers?”—sparked the beginning of a 20-acre flower farm that now ships bouquets and heirloom chrysanthemum plants across the country. Jessica shares how she, her sister, and their mom grew their passion into a thriving business rooted in sustainability, technology, and a whole lot of heart. From saving the last U.S.-based flower frog manufacturer to building a farm that blends heritage blooms with modern tools, this is a conversation full of wisdom and inspiration. Whether you’re just getting started in the garden, knee-deep in flower farming, or dreaming of building something special with your family, Jessica’s story is packed with real-life lessons, encouragement, and the kind of flower talk that makes you want to dig in and grow. 🌸 Highlights from the episode: How a family conversation led to launching Harmony Harvest Farm The power of mentorship and why it’s worth investing in What makes heirloom chrysanthemums so special—and how to grow them Behind the scenes of their flower frog business, Floral Genius Using tech tools to manage a high-volume flower operation🛒 Shop flowers, chrysanthemums, and flower frogs: hhfshop.com 📸 Follow along: https://www.instagram.com/harmonyhrvst/ Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/04/10/ep-53-growing-a-cut-flower-business-with-heirloom-chrysanthemums/ 📌 Please Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! 🌼 Join The Dahlia Patch WaitlistReady to grow your best dahlias yet? The Dahlia Patch is an online community for flower lovers who want to grow with more confidence and fewer frustrations.💌 Get on the waitlist + be the first to access my upcoming free live training:👉 https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/thedahliapatchwaitlist ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

How can we create gardens that are both beautiful and beneficial to the planet? In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we sit down with award-winning landscape architect and author Marian Boswall to discuss the power of regenerative gardening and sustainable landscape design. As the founder of Marian Boswall Landscape Architects and co-founder of the Sustainable Landscape Foundation, Marian has spent decades transforming gardens into thriving ecosystems. We explore her new book, The Kindest Garden, which shares practical tips for designing gardens that nurture both nature and the soul. Whether you're a backyard gardener or dreaming of a sustainable landscape, this episode is packed with inspiration! In this episode, we discuss: What is regenerative gardening? How to design a garden that benefits biodiversity and soil health Practical ways to introduce regenerative principles in small garden spaces The importance of working in harmony with nature for long-term resilience Highlights from The Kindest Garden and Marian's approach to thoughtful garden design🎧 Tune in now and learn how to create a garden that flourishes with kindness! 🔗 Connect with Marian Boswall: Marian’s book, The Kindest Garden: https://bookshop.org/a/2182/9780711289437 Follow Marian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marianboswall/ Follow Marian Boswall Studio: https://www.instagram.com/marianboswallstudio/ Marian Boswall Landscape Architects: https://www.marianboswall.com📚Read For The Love Of Soil By Nicole Masters: https://bookshop.org/a/2182/9780578536729 Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/03/26/ep-52-the-kindest-garden-and-regenerative-gardening/ 📌 Please Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming! 🌿 Your Dream Greenhouse Awaits! 🌿 If you've been thinking about adding a greenhouse to your garden or flower farm, now is the perfect time! I've been working with NW Green Panels for over six years, and their high-quality, custom-built greenhouses are truly game-changers for extending the growing season and protecting your plants. ✨ Exclusive Offer for The Backyard Bouquet Podcast Listeners! ✨ Get $750 off PLUS $500 in free accessories OR 5% off your total (whichever is greater)! 🔗 Mention Farmhouse to save on your new greenhouse 👉Design your greenhouse here: https://www.nwgreenpanels.com/

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jenny Marks, founder of Trademark Farmer and host of Six Figure Flower Farming. Jenny has been immersed in agriculture her entire life, from growing up on a farm to working in government roles with the USDA and State Departments of Agriculture. After starting a vegetable CSA, she discovered that she loved flowers and that they aligned better with the life she wanted to create. Now, she runs a thriving flower farm and teaches others how to build sustainable floral businesses. In this episode, we discuss: How Jenny transitioned from vegetables to flowers The biggest business lessons she’s learned in farming Why niching down is key to standing out in the market How to price flowers with confidence and attract the right customers The mindset shifts needed to succeed in flower farmingIf you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion for flowers into a thriving business, this episode is packed with practical insights and motivation! Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/03/18/ep-51-how-jenny-marks-created-a-profitable-flower-farm/ 🔗 Connect with Jenny Marks: Website: https://www.trademarkfarmer.com/ Instagram: @TrademarkFarmer Online Business Course: Six Figure Flower Farming https://www.trademarkfarmer.com/sfff📌 Please Subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower farming insights! ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming! 🌿 Your Dream Greenhouse Awaits! 🌿 If you've been thinking about adding a greenhouse to your garden or flower farm, now is the perfect time! I've been working with NW Green Panels for over six years, and their high-quality, custom-built greenhouses are truly game-changers for extending the growing season and protecting your plants. ✨ Exclusive Offer for The Backyard Bouquet Podcast Listeners! ✨ Get $750 off PLUS $500 in free accessories OR 5% off your total (whichever is greater)! 🔗 Mention Farmhouse to save $ on your new greenhouse 👉 Design your greenhouse here: https://www.nwgreenpanels.com/

Can pansies be a cut flower? 🌸 You might be surprised! In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we’re chatting with Brenna Estrada, author of Pansies and the flower farmer behind Three Brothers Blooms. Brenna is on a mission to bring long-stemmed pansies back into the floral world, and she’s sharing everything you need to know about growing them successfully. From the history of pansies as a cut flower to tips on growing them for bouquets, Brenna reveals why these delicate blooms deserve a place in every gardener’s cutting garden. Plus, we discuss the best pansy varieties for long stems, how to get vibrant colors, and why this flower has been overlooked for decades. 🌿 In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✔️ Why pansies were once a popular cut flower (and how they can be again!) ✔️ The best pansy varieties for cutting and arranging ✔️ How to grow pansies for long stems and vibrant colors ✔️ Tips for overwintering pansies and extending bloom time ✔️ The secrets behind hybridizing pansies and preserving rare varieties 📖 Get Brenna’s book, Pansies, here: https://bookshop.org/a/2182/9781643264004 Follow Brenna & Three Brothers Blooms: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threebrothersblooms/ Website: https://threebrothersblooms.com/Check out Epic Gardening for high-quality gardening tools, raised beds, and expert resources to help you grow a thriving flower garden! Plus, you can save an extra 5% on your order when you use my code THEFLOWERINGFARMHOUSE at checkout! 🔗 Shop Epic Gardening here: https://shop.epicgardening.com/THEFLOWERINGFARMHOUSE “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished” -Lao Tzu 👉 Listen now & subscribe to The Backyard Bouquet Podcast for more flower-growing tips, expert interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of flower farming! Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/03/11/ep-50-growing-pansies-for-cut-flowers/

In Episode 49 of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we sit down with Dustin Saunders of Little Hollow Flowers, a specialty cut flower farm nestled along Colorado’s Front Range. Dustin shares how a fallen ash tree unexpectedly led him and his partner, Kate, into flower farming, and how their diverse backgrounds in landscaping and biodynamic vegetable farming shaped their approach. We discuss season extension techniques, the challenges of farming in Colorado’s extreme climate, and their passion for growing dahlias, ranunculus, and unique perennials. Dustin also shares insights into building a thriving farmer’s market presence, working with the Colorado Flower Collective, and the importance of supporting local flowers over imports. If you love growing flowers, sustainable farming, or supporting local blooms, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 📍 Follow Dustin at Little Hollow Flowers: https://littlehollowflowers.com 📍 Instagram (@littlehollowflowers): https://www.instagram.com/littlehollowflowers/ Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/03/04/ep-49-little-hollow-flowers/ Sign up for the podcast newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

This special episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast features returning guest Marryn Mathis, founder of The Farmhouse Flower Farm and widely known as the Sweet Pea Queen. Marryn joins the show to celebrate the release of her debut book, Sweet Pea School, a comprehensive guide to growing, nurturing, and enjoying these fragrant, timeless blooms. In this conversation, Marryn shares her journey from flower farmer to published author, the inspiration behind her book, and invaluable tips for successfully growing sweet peas—no matter your climate. We also explore the fascinating history of sweet peas, the art of breeding new varieties, and the deep emotional connection flowers bring to our lives. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting your floral journey, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a love for all things sweet peas. Tune in to discover why these fragrant flowers are having a moment in the gardening world and how you can cultivate them in your own space. 👉 Episode Highlights: How a student’s suggestion led Marryn to write Sweet Pea School The surprising origins of sweet peas and their journey to popularity Common mistakes gardeners make when growing sweet peas Why sweet peas don’t need to be soaked before planting The importance of timing and variety selection for success Marryn’s personal connection to sweet peas and how they shaped her farming journey📚 Grab a copy of Sweet Pea School: https://amzn.to/4bhrYR6🌸 Connect with Marryn https://www.instagram.com/thefarmhouseflowerfarm/ 💐 Visit Marryn’s Website: https://thefarmhouseflowerfarm.com/ Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/02/25/ep-48-growing-sweet-peas-with-marryn-mathis/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

From her time as a Peace Corps agriculture volunteer in Ecuador to becoming a passionate flower farmer in Colorado, Helen Skiba's story is a beautiful reminder of how life can take us on unexpected paths, like how a visit to a friend’s farm can change everything! Helen from Artemis Farm dives deep into her commitment to organic farming practices and soil health, sharing how she practices limited tillage and cover cropping. If you’re curious about how to cultivate a thriving garden while also nurturing the earth, you won’t want to miss her insights! And guess what? Helen is also a new mom! 🎉 She opens up about the joys and challenges of balancing motherhood with running a flower farm. Her daughter, born two months early, has brought a whole new perspective to her life and business. It’s a heartwarming journey that you’ll definitely want to hear! Perhaps one of the most unique aspects of Helen’s story is her collaborative approach to farming. She shares her leased land with other local farmers, creating a vibrant community that supports one another. Helen's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the world of agriculture, and her passion for flowers and community shines through in every aspect of her work. Be sure to tune in for the full conversation with Helen from Artemis Farm. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/01/28/ep-47-artemis-flower-farm/ Learn More About Artemis Flower Farm: Website: https://www.artemisflowerfarm.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artemisflowerfarm/Podcast Listeners Enjoy 7 Days of Growth Day FREE: https://www.growthday.com/?via=floweringfarmhouse Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode.

Ever wondered what it takes to transition from a corporate career to a flourishing flower farm? Join us as we chat with Rebecca Starling, an inspiring flower farmer from Australia who transitioned from a corporate career in London to flower farming in rural Australia. Rebecca shares her heartfelt journey, including the romantic twist that led her to embrace a new life on her husband's fifth-generation family farm. Rebecca gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, Secrets from the Flower Farm, which is filled with insights on growing stunning, fragrant cut flowers and promoting sustainable gardening practices. The book is set to release on March 4th, 2025 in the Northern Hemisphere and is already available in Australia. Throughout the episode, Rebecca discusses her diverse experiences gardening in different climates, from the UK to Switzerland, Connecticut, and finally Australia. She emphasizes the importance of adapting gardening techniques to local conditions and shares valuable tips on growing a variety of flowers, including Mediterranean perennials, North American prairie perennials, and Australian and South African native plants. Rebecca also talks about the challenges and rewards of flower farming in a remote area, her approach to no-till farming, and the importance of perennials in her garden. She highlights some of her favorite perennials, such as salvias, geraniums, lavender, and echinacea, and shares her excitement about new trends in flower fashion. As a flower farmer, Rebecca has diversified her business by offering market bunches, wedding flowers, dried flowers, and even dahlia tubers and seeds. She discusses the unique opportunities and challenges of running a flower farm in a small town and her efforts to promote local flower farming. Be sure to tune in to hear Rebecca's heartwarming story, expert tips, and passion for sustainable flower farming. Don't miss this vibrant and informative episode! Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2025/01/21/ep-46-starling-flowers-secrets-from-the-flower-farm/ Learn More About Starling Flowers: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starlingflowers_/ Web: https://starlingflowers.com.au/ Secrets From The Flower Farm Book: https://amzn.to/4g9t6XP***** Podcast Listeners Are Invited To Enjoy 7 Days of Growth Day FREE: https://www.growthday.com/?via=floweringfarmhouse ***** Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard BouquetIf you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving the podcast a review. Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Ready to bloom in powerful new ways this year? Join us for this special Season 2 premiere of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, for an intimate look at transformation, growth, and choosing joy in the garden and in life. After a groundbreaking first season featuring 44 conversations with inspiring growers worldwide, Jennifer opens her heart about her own unexpected journey of starting fresh. When she lost her growing space in 2024, she didn't just rebuild - she reimagined everything. Through clearing both literal and metaphorical weeds, Jennifer discovered how letting go of what no longer serves us creates space for something extraordinary to bloom. Season 2, themed 'Where We Bloom,' promises to take you on a journey around the world, featuring flower farmers and gardeners who are creating beauty in unique and inspiring ways. Plus, Jennifer reveals an exciting documentary project that will capture every step of transforming bare land into a flourishing flower farm - from breaking ground to first blooms. Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer, a backyard gardener, or someone who's just beginning to dream of growing flowers, this episode will inspire you to see the possibility in new beginnings. Discover how to align your garden with your joy, clear space for what matters most, and bloom exactly where you're planted. Perfect for: flower farmers, gardening enthusiasts, dahlia lovers, small business owners, and anyone interested in sustainable agriculture or starting a cut flower garden. Join our growing community of flower lovers and learn how choosing joy in your garden can transform your entire growing journey. Let's make 2025 the year your garden dreams take root and flourish. Backyard Bouquet Podcast: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/the-backyard-bouquet-podcast/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebackyardbouquetpodcast/ Backyard Bouquet FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening

Have you ever wondered “What does it take to transform a dream into a thriving flower farm?” In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Guliza welcomes Lori Hernandez from Three Acre Farm, who shares her inspiring journey from city life to flower farming. Lori recounts the pivotal moment in 2009 when a vivid vision of a beautiful farm filled with laughter and connection sparked her desire to cultivate a space that celebrates the transformative power of flowers. In this episode,you’ll discover how Lori and her husband, John, took a leap of faith, selling their city home to pursue their dream of farming. Initially focused on growing vegetables, Lori's perspective shifts dramatically when John introduces dahlias into their lives, leading to a newfound appreciation for flowers and their impact on mental well-being. The couple's journey evolves as they transition from a U-pick flower farm to a self-serve flower stand, adapting their business model to fit their family's changing needs. Throughout the conversation, Lori emphasizes the importance of nurturing dreams, protecting them from external opinions, and recognizing the value of help in achieving success. She shares her insights on hiring a virtual assistant and the significance of setting ambitious goals that may seem illogical but can lead to unexpected growth. Tune in to hear the full conversation, filled with heartfelt stories, practical advice, and the wisdom that comes from years of experience in the flower farming world. Join Jennifer and Lori as they explore the beauty of flowers and the joy of cultivating a life aligned with one's passions. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:01:49: From City Life to Flower Farming04:48: From Vision to Reality: Finding Our Dream Farm08:58: From Vegetables to Dahlias15:44: Embracing Authenticity in Business18:34: Finding Focus in Farming28:56: The Value of Hiring Support in Business37:40: Vision Planning for Farmers: Reflecting and Envisioning the Future40:05: Intuition, Goals, and Lifestyle Reflections41:49: Balancing Farm Goals and Lifestyle45:02: The Importance of Coaching and Accepting Reality in Farming59:11: Embracing Boundaries and Joy in Business and Life Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/12/21/ep-44-three-acre-farm-from-vision-to-thriving-flower-farm/ Learn More About Three Acre Farm: https://www.threeacrefarm.net/ https://www.instagram.com/three.acre.farm.mi/ https://www.facebook.com/threeacrefarm.miPodcast Listeners Enjoy 7 Days of Growth Day FREE: https://www.growthday.com/?via=floweringfarmhouse Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

What if the simple act of giving flowers could transform not only your life but also the lives of those around you? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia welcomes Deanna Kitchen, the founder of the Growing Kindness Project and the heart behind Twig and Vine Farm. Deanna shares her inspiring journey from a kindergarten teacher to a flower farmer, revealing how flowers became a source of healing during a challenging time in her life. Deanna explains that her initial foray into gardening was a personal endeavor, helping her navigate feelings of isolation and postpartum depression. As she began to share her homegrown flowers with her community, she discovered the profound impact of kindness and connection. This realization led her to establish the Growing Kindness Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading joy and fostering community through the act of giving flowers. Throughout the conversation, Deanna discusses the importance of community and the ripple effect of kindness. She emphasizes that flowers serve as a powerful catalyst for connection, allowing individuals to engage with one another in meaningful ways. Deanna also shares her vision for the future of the Growing Kindness Project, which includes the hope of establishing a Growing Kindness garden in every community around the world. Tune in to today's episode to be captivated by Deanna's heartfelt stories and her passion for creating a movement centered around kindness and flowers. Be sure to listen to the full conversation and discover how you can get involved in spreading a little kindness in your own community! In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:00-04:20: Cultivating Kindness Through Flowers04:20-07:29: From Gardening to Community Impact08:31-12:23: Growing Kindness: Creating a Nonprofit12:24-15:04: Ripple Effects of Kindness: Creating Connections Through Flowers28:26-31:42: Finding Purpose and Healing Through Giving37:08-41:37: Community and Connection through Gardening42:15-44:14: Envisioning the Future of Growing Kindness45:13-48:46: Embracing the Power of Asking and Giving50:45-55:33: Balancing Generosity and Profit in the Floral Industry55:33-58:13: Community Generosity and the Value of Flowers58:27-01:02:05: Flowers as Tools for Kindness and Community Connection01:03:17-01:04:27: The Impact of Giving Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/12/12/ep-43-growing-kindness-project/ Learn More About The Growing Kindness Project Web: https://www.growingkindnessproject.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingkindnessproject/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066888799511Podcast Listeners Enjoy 7 Days of Growth Day FREE: https://www.growthday.com/?via=floweringfarmhouse Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how you can run a profitable cut flower farm? In this episode, Lennie Larkin, a business leader in the flower farming industry and founder of B-Side Farm, shares her inspiring journey from teaching to sustainable farming. Starting her career in Boston, Lennie transitioned to California, where she enrolled and then taught at UCSC Center for Agroecology, eventually establishing her own flower farm in 2014.Throughout this episode, Lennie candidly shares the challenges she faced, including rapid growth and personal burnout. These experiences led her to seek advanced training in small business management, which dramatically transformed her farm into a model of profitability and sustainability. She emphasizes that while many flower farmers are passionate about growing flowers, they often lack the business acumen necessary to thrive. Lennie aims to bridge this gap by providing coaching and resources to flower farmers nationwide. Lennie discusses the importance of setting realistic sales goals and understanding the financial aspects of running a flower farm. She encourages aspiring farmers to think strategically about their business models, emphasizing that while it is possible to be profitable in the first year, it is often more realistic to aim for profitability in the second or third year. Tune in to hear the full conversation, filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a wealth of knowledge that can inspire anyone interested in profitable cut flower farming. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:01:37: From Passion to Profession: A Journey from Education to Flower Farming10:43: Bridging Agriculture and Business in Flower Farming15:09: Lessons from Early Flower Farming Experiences17:22: Achieving Profitability as a First-Year Flower Farmer19:21: Strategies for Farm Profitability: Setting Realistic Goals and Efficient Practices27:29: Optimal Farm Size for Beginners and Strategies for Efficiency29:02: Small-Scale Farming for Profitability32:04: Scaling A Wedding Business35:58: Embracing Collaboration: The Value of Sourcing Flowers from Other Farms42:52: Transitioning to Oregon: Challenges and New Beginnings in Flower Farming49:23: Empowering Flower Farmers Through Coaching and Community57:02: Embracing Marketing and Sales in Flower Farming Learn More About Lennie Larkins & Flower Farming For Profit: https://www.flowerfarmingforprofit.com/ https://www.instagram.com/flowerfarming.forprofit/ Better Boundaries Free Guide: https://mailchi.mp/flowerfarmingforprofit/backyard-bouquet-podcast Flower Farming For Profit Book: https://amzn.to/4fyNh1uYou're Invited To Join The Dahlia Patch! Join The Waitlist Here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/thedahliapatchwaitlist Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review?  New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

What happens when a dahlia unexpectedly takes on the appearance of a daffodil? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Kelsey Hall of Cattle & Cut Flowers shares her remarkable journey in flower farming and the intriguing story behind her recent discovery, the “Daffodahlia.” Kelsey, who runs a charming family-operated farm in Enumclaw, Washington, recounts how her farming adventure began in 2017 when she and her husband purchased a foreclosure property. Initially focused on creating a sustainable homestead with livestock, Kelsey gradually found her passion for flowers, starting with just 30 dahlia plants. Fast forward to today, and she now cultivates over 4,000 dahlias each year, showcasing her dedication and love for floral farming. During the conversation, Kelsey reveals the fascinating tale of the "Daffodahlia," a unique dahlia sport that emerged unexpectedly in her high tunnel. This striking flower features a daffodil-like shape, captivating flower enthusiasts and even catching the attention of Martha Stewart. Kelsey shares her initial concerns about the mutation, fearing it might indicate a disease, but her journey of discovery leads her to realize the beauty and potential of this extraordinary bloom. Kelsey shares about her challenges of balancing family life with the demands of farming, as well as her approach to wedding floral design. She discusses her plans to expand her dahlia production while also emphasizing the importance of responsible farming practices and thorough testing before introducing new varieties to the market. Kelsey’s story is one of passion, resilience, and the magic that can unfold in the world of flower farming. Tune in to hear the full conversation and be inspired by Kelsey’s journey, the beauty of dahlias, and the unexpected surprises that nature can bring! In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:05:30 - Introduction to Kelsey Hall and Cattle and Cup Flowers00:10:00 - Kelsey's Journey into Flower Farming00:15:30 - Transitioning from Livestock to Flowers00:25:30 - Balancing Family Life and Farming00:30:00 - Sales Outlets and Business Strategies00:35:30 - The Discovery of the Daffodahlia00:45:30 - Future Plans for the Daffodahlia00:50:00 - Dahlia Seed Collection and Pollination00:55:30 - Growing Zone and Seasonal Changes Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/10/30/ep-41-kelsey-hall-how-the-daffodahlia-discovery-is-shaping-her-farm/ Learn More About Cattle & Cut Flowers: https://www.cattleandcutflowers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/cattleandcutflowers/ https://www.facebook.com/cattleandcutflowers/Podcast Listens Can Enjoy One-Month Free Subscription To The Dahlia Patch! Join Here: https://bit.ly/backyardbouquet Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

This episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast features a replay from the Growing Beautiful Dahlias Interview Series hosted by Valerie Miller of Steel Cow Lavender Farm. In this episode, Valerie interviews Jennifer Gulizia, the host of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast and a passionate flower farmer based in Hood River, Oregon. In this episode, Jennifer shares her journey as a cut flower farmer, her love for dahlias, and her recent transition to a new 20-acre farm. Throughout the conversation, Valerie and Jennifer discuss the importance of soil health, land selection, and the process of hybridizing dahlias. Jennifer explains how she hybridizes dahlias, the significance of understanding soil conditions, and the steps involved in saving seeds. She emphasizes the need for careful planning and strategic decision-making when it comes to growing flowers sustainably. Be sure to tune in to hear the full conversation, filled with insights and tips for finding farmland and growing beautiful dahlias. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:03:54 - Acquisition of 20 Acres: A New Beginning00:05:09 - Challenges of the New Property00:08:19 - Strategic Planning for the Future00:09:35 - Restoration Plans for the Land00:11:00 - Importance of Soil Health00:19:40 - Land Selection for Growing Dahlias00:24:14 - Leasing Land: Legal Considerations00:30:34 - The Importance of a Lease Agreement00:32:06 - Seed Saving and Hybridizing Dahlias01:02:15 - Community and Support in Flower Farming01:05:00 - Advice for Aspiring Flower Farmers01:10:45 - Sustainability Practices in Flower Farming01:13:00 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/10/26/ep-40-grow-beautiful-dahlias-interview-series-replay/ Learn More About Growing Beautiful Dahlia Series: https://steel-cow-lavender-farm-llc.ck.pagePodcast Listens Can Enjoy One-Month Free Subscription To The Dahlia Patch! Join Here: https://bit.ly/40lbDaK Learn More About The Flowering Farmhouse https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Are you curious about what it takes to hybridize dahlias in your own backyard? Tune in to hear how Vonda VandeHoef, PNW gardener, has become a ​​backyard dahlia hybridizer. In this episode we are joined by Vonda VandeHoef, a passionate backyard gardener from the Pacific Northwest. Vonda shares her journey from growing up around flowers to becoming a passionate backyard dahlia hybridizer. Vonda's love for flowers is deeply rooted in her family history, having grown up with a mother who ran a flower shop. She recounts how her early experiences in the floral industry planted the seeds for her current passion. Despite facing significant personal losses, including the sudden deaths of her sister, mother, and brother-in-law, Vonda finds solace and healing in her garden. Her story is a testament to the therapeutic power of gardening. Listeners will be inspired by Vonda's detailed process of hybridizing dahlias, from saving seeds to growing out new varieties over several years. She discusses the challenges and joys of cultivating a diverse range of dahlias, including her favorite anemone types and the unique seedlings she has developed. Vonda also touches on her plans to name some of her dahlias in honor of her loved ones and her aspirations to support her family through her gardening endeavors. Tune in to hear Vonda's heartfelt journey, her expert tips on dahlia hybridization, and how she manages to grow over 1,300 dahlias in her backyard. This episode is a beautiful blend of personal stories and practical gardening advice that will leave you feeling inspired and eager to let your own backyard bloom. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:03:14 - Vonda's Early Passion for Flowers00:05:45 - Transition from Interior Design to Floristry00:07:09 - Color Theory in Floristry and Photography00:09:29 - Vonda's Current Home and Garden00:16:14 - Coping with Loss & Finding Healing Through Gardening00:26:06 - Process of Hybridizing Dahlias00:31:06 - Evaluating and Saving Dahlia Seedlings00:32:50 - Favorite Dahlia Varieties00:37:16 - Family Support and Business Aspirations00:41:07 - Evolution of Vonda's Garden00:43:39 - Sharing Flowers with the Community00:44:47 - Plans to Release Hybridized Dahlias Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/10/16/ep-39-vonda-vandehoef-backyard-dahlia-hybridizer/ Learn More About Vonda VandeHoef: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vondavhoef/ Podcast Listens Can Enjoy One-Month Free Subscription To The Dahlia Patch! Join Here: https://bit.ly/backyardbouquet  Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

How can legacy farming and mental health intertwine to create a thriving community? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Trina Galloway, a third-generation farmer from Mt. View Orchards in majestic Parkdale, Oregon. Trina shares her heartfelt journey from being a mental health nurse practitioner to returning to her family farm, where she has beautifully blended her rich heritage with innovative approaches. She discusses the addition of a vibrant you-pick flower field alongside her family's traditional fruit orchards and the launch of Grateful Vineyard, Mt. Hood's first winery, cidery, and brewery.Trina delves into the challenges and rewards of legacy farming, emphasizing the importance of diversification and soil health. She also highlights the mental health benefits of gardening, drawing from her experience as a mental health nurse practitioner. Trina's story is a testament to the power of dreams, gratitude, and community in creating a sustainable and fulfilling farming practice. Tune in to hear the full conversation, where we dig into the intersection of agriculture, hospitality, and mental wellness, offering valuable insights and inspiration for both seasoned farmers and gardening enthusiasts. Don't miss this enriching episode that cultivates wisdom and joy through flowers and farming. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:03:30 - Trina's Childhood and Early Dreams00:08:18 - Trina's Career Journey and Return to the Farm00:11:05 - Succession Planning and Family Collaboration00:13:30 - Diversifying the Farm00:18:29 - Expanding the Farm Stand and Adding Flowers00:20:03 - Launching Grateful Vineyard00:30:20 - Soil Health and Pest Management00:33:20 - Planting Sunflowers During COVID00:40:17 - Mental Health and Farming Community00:42:34 - Benefits of Gardening for Mental Health00:49:08 - Growing for the Community Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/10/11/ep-38-mt-view-orchards-the-healing-power-of-flowers/ Learn More About Mt.View Orchards: https://www.mtvieworchards.com/ https://www.gratefulvineyards.com/ https://www.mtvieworchardsweddings.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mtvieworchards https://www.facebook.com/mtvieworchardsPodcast Listens Can Enjoy One-Month Free Subscription To The Dahlia Patch!  Join Here: https://bit.ly/backyardbouquet Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I’d love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Katy King, of Hidden Springs Flowers in central Pennsylvania. Katy shares the inspiring journey of transforming a century-old family farm into a thriving cut flower business. She and her husband Jim started Hidden Springs in 2018, turning a simple backyard veggie patch into two acres of stunning seasonal cut flowers. Katy discusses the challenges and joys of balancing her roles as a farmer, entrepreneur, educator, and mother. Tune in to learn about the farm's history, dating back to Jim's great-grandparents, and how Katy's passion for gardening and business led her to flower farming. She details the evolution of their business model, from selling to florists to focusing on retail and subscription bouquets. Katy also shares insights into her planting schedule, the importance of making the business fit around her life, and her strategies for managing the farm with minimal help. Additionally, Katy talks about her passion for educating others in the floral industry, particularly on the business side of flower farming. She offers tips on using social media effectively and discusses her online course designed to help aspiring flower farmers. Listen now to hear the full conversation and gain valuable insights from Katy King's journey with Hidden Springs Flowers. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:03:36 - History of Hidden Springs Flower Farm00:05:23 - Transition from Vegetable Farming to Flower Farming00:09:58 - First Flower Sales and Pop-Up Markets00:19:44 - Adjusting Business Model for Family Life00:29:53 - Current Flower Varieties Grown00:31:05 - Year-Round Business Operations00:32:31 - Selling Subscriptions During Holidays00:34:15 - Starting Flowers from Plugs00:40:03 - Passion for Educating Others00:43:02 - Using TikTok for Business00:45:58 - Importance of Storytelling in Business00:46:36 - Online Flower Farm Course: In The Weeds Learn More About Hidden Springs Flowers: In The Weeds Flower Farm Course: https://hiddenspringsflowers.com/pages/in-the-weeds Website: https://hiddenspringsflowers.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/hiddenspringsflowers/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/hiddenspringsflowers TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hiddenspringsflowers******Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/09/10/ep-37-hidden-springs-flowers/ Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

As fall swiftly approaches, the changing of seasons brings new challenges and opportunities for gardeners. In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we welcome back Kara Jamison of Blooming Joy Flower Co. Kara discusses the importance of soil health, revealing her methods for cultivating rich, organic soil that has helped her garden thrive even through a hot, dry summer. She explains how she uses organic materials like compost, animal manures, and wood chips to improve soil moisture retention and fertility. This conversation also delves into the joys and challenges of growing specific flowers. Kara shares her success with celosia and stock, offering tips on how to grow these beautiful blooms. She also talks about her passion for dried flowers and how she creates stunning arrangements and petal confetti from her garden's bounty. Kara's story is not just about flowers; it's also about balancing life as a flower farmer. As a homeschooling mother of four and a caregiver, she manages to find time for her garden by carefully scheduling her days. Her dedication to both her family and her passion for flowers is truly inspiring. Tune in to hear the full conversation and gain valuable insights into fall gardening, soil health, and the art of growing and drying flowers. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration to help your garden bloom. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/09/07/ep-36-how-blooming-joy-flower-co-is-transitioning-into-fall-with-dried-flowers-and-cool-flowers/ In This Episode You’ll Hear About:04:47-10:39: "Building Healthy Soil with Organic Practices"13:43-17:58: "Successful Greenhouse Gardening: Growing Stock Flowers"19:05-22:13: "Passion for Celosia: Cultivating Dried Flowers"22:14-28:01: "Creating Seasonal Floral Crafts: Petal Confetti and Zinnia Garlands"28:16-31:19: "Summer Gardening Discoveries: A Colorful Palette of Blooms"35:56-40:53: "Balancing Family Life and Flower Farming"42:53-46:10: "Embracing Fall: Gardening Joy and Winter Preparations"49:49-53:36: "Adapting Flower Planting Schedules for Busy Lives"57:17-01:02:26: "Growing and Enjoying Yarrow and Feverfew in the Garden" Learn More About Blooming Joy Flower Co: https://stan.store/bloomingjoyflowerco https://www.youtube.com/@bloomingjoyflowercompany https://www.instagram.com/bloomingjoyflowerco https://facebook.com/bloomingjoyflowerco******Join me inside Amy Porterfield’s Course Confident: A LIVE Bootcamp to Get Digital Course Clarity, Attract Your Audience, and Show up with Confidence Online. Save Your Seat For Only $47: https://bit.ly/apcourseconfident ******Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever marveled at how a tiny seed encapsulates not just life but also the past, present, and future? Dive deep into this concept with Erin Benzakein, the founder of Floret, one of the most influential flower farms and seed companies globally, on this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Erin's love for flowers sprouts from cherished childhood memories and blossomed into a profound passion that would redefine her life’s path. Starting with a modest garden while raising her young children, Erin's journey is a testament to how a simple backyard project can evolve into a pioneering enterprise in sustainable agriculture and floral education. Throughout our conversation, Erin opens up about the parallel growth of her business and her children, sharing how each stage of their lives influenced her strategies and decisions. She discusses the delicate balance of motherhood and entrepreneurship, revealing her personal philosophy on taking things slowly and embracing patience. Erin also delves into the dynamics of building a supportive team, highlighting how recognizing her own limitations allowed her to focus more on her strengths—cultivating flowers and fueling her creativity. Join us for a truly enlightening dialogue with Erin Benzakein, filled with enduring lessons on perseverance, leadership, and the joys of flower farming. Tune in to get inspired by Erin's flowering journey and her passionate commitment to the beauty of blooms. Plus, be sure to sign up for her free Seed-Saving-Mini-Course! Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/08/27/ep-35-floret/ Learn More About Floret: Floret https://www.floretflowers.com Email Sign up https://www.floretflowers.com/newsletter/ Seed Saving Course https://workshop.floretflowers.com/2024-seed-saving-mini-course-opt-in Instagram https://www.instagram.com/floretflower/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@floretflowerfarm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/floretflowers/ Annual Floret Workshop: https://www.floretflowers.com/workshops/online-workshop/******3 Types Of People Are Replacing Their Income With A Digital Course… Are You One Of Them?Take the quiz: https://bit.ly/3typesofpeoplereplacingincomewithadigitalcourse ******Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Today, we're excited to welcome back Marryn Mathis from The Farmhouse Flower Farm in Stanwood, WA to celebrate the pre-launch of her new book, 'Sweet Pea School,' which is set to be released on February 25, 2025. This book is a treasure trove of insights into growing, nurturing, and saving seeds from one of the garden’s most beloved flowers, the sweet pea. Marryn is here today to give us a sneak peek into her book and share some expert tips on saving sweet pea seeds, a timely topic for gardeners preparing for the next growing season. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out with sweet peas, you’re in for a treat with this bonus episode. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: Celebrating the Pre-Launch of "Sweet Pea School": 00:00:55-00:01:37 Tips on Saving Sweet Pea Seeds: 00:01:37-00:05:00 Storing Sweet Pea Seeds: 00:05:00-00:05:47 Harvesting Sweet Pea Seeds: 00:05:47-00:08:55 Trialing New Sweet Pea Varieties: 00:10:01-00:11:21 Self-Sowing Sweet Pea Seeds: 00:12:16-00:13:40 Writing "Sweet Pea School": 00:15:38-00:18:41 Where To Pre-Order "Sweet Pea School": 00:19:16-00:20:54 Closing Remarks and Farewell: 00:21:08-00:21:50Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/08/22/bonus-sweet-pea-school-with-marryn-mathis-the-farmhouse-flower-farm/Learn More About The Farmhouse Flower Farm Website: https://thefarmhouseflowerfarm.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefarmhouseflowerfarmPre-Order Book: Order Direct From The Farmhouse Flower Farm: https://thefarmhouseflowerfarm.com/pages/sweet-pea-school-book Amazon: https://amzn.to/3XbcjxsSign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever thought about not having to do everything, but instead focusing on what you truly enjoy? Join today’s conversation with Laura Ward from Blackburn Gardens as she shares her journey from dreaming about dirt and flowers as a child to creating a local garden haven. Hear how Laura transitioned from a vegetable CSA model to a successful You-Pick flower farm, finding joy in sharing her space with others and drying flowers for beautiful arrangements. Laura's dedication to growing beauty and community spirit is truly special, as she nurtures her lifelong passion for gardening into a thriving oasis. From her bustling roadside flower cart to the magical three-fourth acre farm where she meets neighbors and shares blooms for every occasion, Laura's journey is a testament to following one's passion and finding success in doing what brings you joy. Learn about the unique challenges and rewards of running an urban flower farm, and how Laura's love for flowers has transformed into a flourishing business that continues to bloom. Tune in to hear more about Laura’s favorite flowers to dry, her upcoming workshops, and the magic that happens at Blackburn Gardens. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/08/20/ep-34-blackburn-gardens/ In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:05:30 - Transition from Vegetable CSA to Flower Farming 00:10:48 - Setting up a Roadside Flower Cart 00:16:12 - Shifting Business Model to You-Pick Flower Farm 00:21:19 - Building Awareness for You-Pick Flower Farm 00:28:26 - Drying Shed Setup and Drying Process 00:32:04 - Love for Drying Flowers and Dried Flower Sales 00:36:15 - Favorite Flowers for Drying 00:40:02 - Drying Strawflower and Other Flowers 00:47:10 - Selling Dried Flowers and WorkshopsLearn More About Blackburn Gardens: Website: https://blackburngardens.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackburn.gardens/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackburngardens Workshops: https://blackburngardens.com/workshops/3 Types Of People Are Replacing Their Income With A Digital Course… Are You One Of Them?Take the quiz: https://bit.ly/3typesofpeoplereplacingincomewithadigitalcourse Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/thefloweringfarmhousenewsletter ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how a backyard garden with just 10 dahlias could transform into a flourishing flower farm with over 1500 dahlias? Join Christopher Tomaso and Wyatt Thomas, partners at Darcy's Dahlias, as they share their journey on the Backyard Bouquet podcast. Tune in to hear their inspiring conversation about their growth from hobbyist dahlia growers to successful flower farmers. In this episode, Christopher and Wyatt discuss their organic journey to becoming flower farmers. They share how they expanded their dahlia production from just a few plants to over a thousand, sharing their experiences and challenges along the way. Hear how they've dealt with everything from severe weather conditions to experimenting with different growing and propagation techniques. Learn how Darcy's Dahlias has overcome obstacles like heavy clay soil and severe weather events, and how they turned setbacks into opportunities for growth. Learn about their approach to soil health, their strategies for supporting their dahlias in windy conditions, and their experiences with overwintering tubers and growing dahlias from cuttings. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Christopher and Wyatt as they offer valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to turn their backyard garden into a successful cut flower farm. Tune in to the Backyard Bouquet podcast to hear the full conversation with these passionate flower farmers. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: Introduction to Darcy's Dahlias: 00:02:40-00:02:51 Expanding Dahlia Production: 00:03:30-00:03:41 Transition to Flower Farming: 00:04:22-00:04:33 Growing a Variety of Flowers: 00:05:56-00:06:07 Selling Flowers Locally: 00:06:24-00:06:35 Urban Flower Farming: 00:07:09-00:07:20 Challenges of Soil Improvement: 00:13:00-00:13:10 Dealing with Severe Weather: 00:16:09-00:16:19 Division of Farming Responsibilities: 00:36:26-00:36:36 Future Plans for Darcy's Dahlias: 00:44:57-00:45:07 Breeding and Hybridizing Dahlias: 00:46:13-00:46:23Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/08/16/ep-33-darcys-dahlias/ Learn More About Darcy’s Dahlias: https://darcysdahlias.com/ www.instagram.com/darcys_dahlias https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084431747613***3 Types Of People Are Replacing Their Income With A Digital Course… Are You One Of Them?***Take the quiz: https://bit.ly/3typesofpeoplereplacingincomewithadigitalcourse Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Are you curious about what it takes to successfully sell flowers at the farmer's market? Imagine the vibrant colors, the sweet scents, and the joy of sharing beautiful blooms with others. If you're intrigued, then you'll definitely want to tune in to the latest episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast featuring Janis Harris from Harris Flower Farm in Ontario, Canada. In this episode, Janis shares her journey of transforming her family-operated flower farm into a thriving hub for beautiful cut flowers. With 16 years of experience in the industry, Janis offers valuable insights into running a successful farmer's market where her flowers find their way into the homes and hearts of many. From growing a variety of flowers on eight acres of land to engaging with customers at the market, Janis's story is both inspiring and informative. She discusses the importance of valuing the quality of flowers over quantity, sharing how attention to detail and dedication to providing top-notch blooms have set her farm apart. One key takeaway from Janis's experience is the significance of building a loyal customer base through consistency and quality. By offering a range of price points and focusing on the freshness and longevity of her flowers, Janis has cultivated a strong following of flower enthusiasts who appreciate the value of her products. So, if you're eager to learn more about the behind-the-scenes of a successful flower farm and the strategies for thriving at the farmer's market, be sure to listen to the full conversation with Janis Harris on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Get ready to be inspired by her passion for flowers and her dedication to delivering exceptional blooms to her community. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:02:33 - Transition from Optician to Full-Time Flower Farmer00:05:18 - Family Farming Legacy and Farm Purchase00:06:01 - Balancing Full-Time Job and Flower Farming00:08:25 - Family Involvement in the Farm00:10:25 - Team and Seasonal Help00:11:19 - Ontario's Growing Season and Climate00:17:07 - Types of Flowers and Crops Grown00:18:22 - Overwintering Flowers in Zone 5B00:20:05 - Flower Distribution Channels00:23:13 - Building a Customer Base00:25:05 - Subscription Model and Pre-Sales00:27:15 - Greenhouse Production and Seasonal Flowers00:27:48 - On-Farm Events and Workshops00:30:08 - Pick-Your-Own Events and Customer Engagement00:32:49 - Farmer's Market Presence and History00:35:18 - Market Logistics and Setup Learn More About Harris Flower Farm: https://www.harrisflowerfarm.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/harrisflowerfarm/ https://www.facebook.com/harrisflowerfarmpasturedpork***3 Types Of People Are Replacing Their Income With A Digital Course… Are You One Of Them?***Take the quiz: https://bit.ly/3typesofpeoplereplacingincomewithadigitalcourse Shownotes: https://bit.ly/4dqCNAz Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever imagined leaving the hustle and bustle of city life behind to embrace the serenity of country living?  In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia sits down with flower farmer, Lexi Bokenkotter of Bokenkotter Blooms to delve into her remarkable journey from city living to becoming a successful flower farmer in rural Indiana. Join Jennifer and Lexi as they chat about the joys and challenges of transitioning from a postage stamp-sized garden to a sprawling flower farm. Lexi shares her passion for sustainable living and community engagement, highlighting her commitment to organic practices and locally sourced compost. Lexi shares how she draws inspiration from fellow flower farmers like Floret and Muddy Acres, and how she has cultivated a diverse crop selection including dahlias, zinnias, cosmos, and more. In this episode, Lexi discusses her on-farm events, such as U-picks and workshops, and her plans for future expansion. Tune in to the full episode to be inspired by Lexi's dedication to sustainable farming practices and her flourishing flower farm business. Learn how she navigates the challenges of rural life and find out how she turns her passion for flowers into a thriving business that blooms with beauty and community spirit. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Flower Farming in Rural Setting 00:05:27 - Making the Leap: Transitioning to Rural Living and Flower Farming 00:06:17 - Exploring Property and Initial Plans for Flower Farming 00:10:12 - Challenges and Learnings in Starting the Flower Farm 00:11:26 - Diversifying Farming Activities: Events and Workshops 00:20:03 - Selling Flowers and Engaging with Florists: Business Expansion 00:23:39 - Sustainability Practices on the Flower Farm: Eco-Friendly Approaches 00:25:43 - On-Farm Events and Vendor Collaborations 00:29:08 - Addressing Insurance and Safety Concerns for On-Farm Events 00:30:14 - Managing Surrounding Agricultural Practices and Impact on the Flower Farm 00:33:02 - Balancing Wildlife and Livestock on the Flower Farm 00:34:58 - Challenges and Benefits of Having Animals on the Property 00:37:31 - Transition from Goats to Poultry on the Flower Farm 00:39:02 - Utilizing Acreage for Cover Cropping and Future Plans 00:40:02 - Primary Flower Crops and Expansion into Sunflowers 00:41:14 - Variety of Flowers Grown on the Farm 00:43:15 - Strategies for Dealing with Pest Control and Organic Practices 00:46:15 - Focus on Sustainability and Organic Practices in Flower FarmingShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/08/08/ep-31-bokenkotter-blooms-from-city-living-to-rural-cut-flower-farm/Learn More About Bokenkotter Blooms: Website: https://www.bokenkotterblooms.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bokenkotterbloomsOther Links Mentioned In Episode: Kiss The Ground Movie: https://kisstheground.com/ NRCS Grant: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs-initiatives/cig-conservation-innovation-grantsIf you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes.  New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how you can practice sustainable gardening in a small urban space? In this episode we are joined by Chia-Ming, a Los Angeles-based food-focused landscape designer. Chia-Ming is here to share her journey of going from corporate finance to a flourishing urban homestead. Chia-Ming shares her expertise in blending culinary and floral beauty seamlessly, drawing from her upbringing cultivating rare Asian fruits and vegetables alongside her mother in Taiwan. Her passion for sustainable gardening led her to found Coastal Homestead in 2020, where she empowers gardening novices to become green-thumbed enthusiasts through innovative design and personalized mentorship. In this blossoming conversation, Chia-Ming discusses the challenges and joys of urban gardening, the importance of soil health, and the unique aspects of coastal gardening, including dealing with powdery mildew and implementing biocontrol methods. Join us as we delve into the complexities of disease management in plants, highlighting the need for vigilance and responsible gardening practices. Tune in to this episode as we explore the intricacies of growing food and flowers in small spaces, sharing valuable insights to inspire you to cultivate your own source of beauty and sustenance. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of sustainable gardening. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:01:16 - Chia-Ming's Background in Cultivating Rare Asian Fruits and Vegetables00:01:38 - Transition to Sustainable Living and Urban Gardening00:01:59 - Passion for Growing Exotic and Hard-to-Find Edible Plants00:02:10 - Discussion on the Science of Gardening and Soil Importance00:02:38 - Chia-Ming's Urban Gardening Space and Challenges00:08:07 - Importance of Soil Testing for Backyard Gardeners00:10:18 - Chia-Ming's Urban Garden Setup00:11:59 - Year-Round Growing Season and Challenges00:12:36 - Appreciation for the Growing Process and Gardening Journey00:14:02 - Chia-Ming's Diverse Garden Overview and Projects00:33:10 - Biocontrol Strategies in Gardening for Pest and Disease Management00:42:08 - Discussion on Disease Control in Dahlia Cultivation00:48:56 - Considerations for Disease Management and Plant Health in Gardening Shownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/07/23/ep-30-coastal-homestead-small-urban-gardening/Learn More About Chia-Ming and Coastal Homestead: Website:https://www.coastalhomestead.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coastal_homestead YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@coastalhomesteadSign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every week to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to run a successful flower farm and create a unique on-farm experience for visitors? Today we are joined by Meg McGuire from Red Daisy Farm in Brighton, Colorado. Meg is here to share the inspiring story of how her family turned their property into a vibrant community hub, offering everything from wholesale flowers to overnight farm stays. Meg's journey began with a wedding request from her cousin, sparking her love for flower farming. Over the past 11 years, she has navigated the challenges of crop failures, physical demands, and balancing work and personal life. Meg's dedication to her farm and her family's involvement in the business exemplifies the importance of succession planning and passing down the farm's legacy. At Red Daisy Farm, guests can enjoy DIY flower buckets, floral workshops, and unique accommodations like converted silos with stunning mountain views. Meg's commitment to building relationships with florists and providing a memorable experience for visitors showcases the hard work and passion that goes into running a flower farm. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to create a thriving agricultural business while maintaining a balance between work and personal life. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:00:55 - Introduction to Red Daisy Farm 00:05:31 - Expanding into Farm Stays 00:07:18 - Family Involvement in the Farm 00:19:09 - Irrigation and Water Sources 00:22:00 - Creation of the Natural Swimming Pond 00:15:25 - Challenges with Hail and Crop Loss 00:31:01 - Succession Planning for the Farm 00:35:25 - Flower Sales to Florists 00:36:50 - DIY Flower Buckets and CSA 00:43:21 - Flower Workshops and Events 00:44:26 - Importance of Taking Time OffShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/07/23/ep-29-red-daisy-flower-farm/Learn More About Red Daisy Farm: Red Daisy Farm: https://www.reddaisyfarm.com/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/reddaisyfarm/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/reddaisyfarm1Links To Mentions From Interview: Follow The Blooms: https://www.youtube.com/@flowers.for.people/ Zeta Water Management Systems: https://zetarod.com/ Icy Breeze Car Cooler: https://www.icybreeze.com/Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform a traditional farm into a thriving event venue? In this episode, Justine Ludwig joins us to share her story of transitioning Coastal Black from a dairy farm to a vibrant event space, hosting popular festivals like their annual pumpkin festival and tulip festival. Justine's experience highlights the importance of diversifying farm activities, engaging with the community, and adapting to challenges in the farming industry. Discover the logistics behind creating a safe and aesthetically pleasing event space on a working farm, including considerations for liability insurance and visitor experience. Learn how Justine's innovative approach, feedback from professionals like photographers, and community support have contributed to the success of Coastal Black's events. Tune in to this episode for valuable insights on flower farming, event planning, and the resilience required to overcome obstacles in the agricultural world. Justine Ludwig's journey at Coastal Black is a testament to the power of innovation, community collaboration, and unwavering determination in the farming industry. In This Episode You’ll Hear About:00:02:21 - Justine's Journey: From City Life to Farm Life00:03:45 - Transition from Dairy Farming to Beekeeping00:04:49 - Starting the Pumpkin Festival00:06:22 - Launching the Tulip Festival00:08:25 - Diversifying Farm Revenue Streams00:09:57 - Challenges and Benefits of Growing Tulips in Crates00:12:34 - Soil Management and Composting00:14:26 - Overview of Coastal Black Farm's Acreage and Operations00:18:04 - Tulip Festival Visitor Experience00:23:06 - Impact of Weather on Tulip Festival00:26:06 - Community Support and Resilience00:31:04 - Adding New Features to Festivals00:33:07 - Logistics of Creating an Event Space on a Farm00:36:09 - Enhancing Visitor Experience with Aesthetic Improvements00:38:03 - Flexibility and Adaptability in Event Planning00:39:07 - Consulting Professionals for Event Space Design00:41:57 - Golden Hour Sessions for Photographers00:44:24 - Liability and Insurance for Farm Events Learn More About Justine Black: Instagram: www.instagram.com/justineludwig.co/ https://stan.store/JustineLudwig Coastal Black: https://coastalblack.ca/Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming!

Imagine turning a small urban garden into a flourishing ½ acre flower farm—all while homeschooling four kids and battling postpartum depression. That’s exactly what Galena Berkompas accomplished, and she’s here to share her inspiring journey on the Backyard Bouquet podcast. Galena transformed her life through the power of flowers, starting with little knowledge and a modest space in 2020, and has now grown into a successful flower farmer known for her sustainable practices and heartwarming story. Join us as we explore the therapeutic effects of gardening and how flowers brought joy and purpose back into Galena's life. Balancing a bustling family life with a thriving flower farm is no small feat, but Galena has found a way to weave her children into her passion seamlessly. From homeschooling to farm chores, her young ones are learning the value of hard work and the wonders of nature. Galena opens up about the tough decisions she’s had to make, like dropping summer CSAs to focus on her family, and shares humorous anecdotes of her kids’ farm escapades. You'll also discover her strategies for maintaining profitability while nurturing her children’s education and childhood, as well as exciting future plans like selling seeds and expanding her farming operations. But Galena’s story doesn’t end there. Learn how an unexpected Airbnb listing led her to the perfect 6-acre property and how she’s embracing organic and sustainable farming practices. Listen to her serendipitous tale of purchasing her dream farm, negotiating with sellers, and managing unexpected challenges. Galena’s social media success, nearing a million followers on Instagram, underscores her genuine connection with her audience and commitment to sharing her journey. Tune in to this episode for an uplifting and informative discussion on flower farming, family, and the serendipitous joys of life. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:02:10 - Galena's Inspiration for Flower Farming 00:04:30 - Transition from Hobby to Profitable Flower Farming 00:06:45 - Involving Kids in the Farming Process 00:10:35 - Balancing Business and Passion for Flower Farming 00:12:39 - Managing Profitability and Personal Preferences in Flower Farming 00:13:21 - Transitioning to a Larger Flower Farm Property 00:16:46 - Involving Family in the Farming Operation 00:21:45 - Balancing Work Ethic and Family Time on the Farm 00:27:13 - Finding the Perfect Property for Flower Farming 00:32:07 - Implementing Natural Pest Control Methods on the Farm 00:40:04 - Unexpected Discovery of New Farm Property 00:44:08 - Challenges and Successes in the Farm Property Purchase 00:49:46 - Impact of Social Media Presence on Flower Farming JourneyShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/06/25/ep-27-micro-flower-farm/ Learn More About Micro Flower Farm: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/microflowerfarm/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/microflowerfarm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn62VzXv-XdA9Kq1hVpUolQ Website: https://www.microflowerfarm.com/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review?  I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered how a simple backyard gardening hobby could blossom into a thriving family-run business supplying high-quality rooted dahlia cuttings to flower farmers and gardeners across the country? In this captivating episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of Julie and Ryan Williams, the passionate duo behind Stonehouse Dahlias in Northern Utah. Julie and Ryan share their heartwarming tale of transitioning from teachers to dahlia propagators, recounting the pivotal moment when they were approached to sell Kristine Albrecht's renowned K.A. Dahlia varieties through cuttings. The Williams' dedication to producing virus-free plants through tissue culture and their commitment to quality shine through as they discuss the challenges and triumphs of their business. Tune in to hear expert advice on caring for dahlia cuttings, including the importance of timely planting, providing ample light, and amending soil for optimal tuber growth. The Williams' innovative approach to dahlia propagation, their resilience in the face of setbacks, and their ongoing experimentation with tuber growth methods make Stonehouse Dahlias a beacon of excellence in the dahlia community. Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer or a budding gardener, this episode is sure to inspire and educate, offering valuable insights into the art of growing vibrant and healthy dahlias. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:00:55-00:01:07: Introduction to Stonehouse Dahlias 00:02:23-00:02:33: Story of How Stonehouse Dahlias Got Started 00:04:22-00:04:33: Transition to Cuttings 00:09:27-00:09:38: Challenges and Growth 00:10:30-00:10:40: Collaboration with Kristine Albrecht 00:19:47-00:19:58: Growing Virus-Free Stock and Tissue Culture 00:22:51-00:23:03: Virus Elimination Process 00:26:32-00:26:42: Learning Resilience and Adaptation 00:36:13-00:36:25: Controlling Pests in the Greenhouse 00:41:55-00:42:05: Tips for Handling Cuttings 00:46:34-00:46:46: Getting Tubers from CuttingsShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/06/23/ep-26-stonehouse-dahlias-industry-leaders-in-growing-virus-free-dahlia-cuttings/ Learn More About Stonehouse Dahlias: Website: https://stonehousedahlias.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stonehousedahlias/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode, Melissa Hessney Masters, of Tangleboom Flower Farm, takes us on a heartfelt journey that began with a simple yet profound desire to find local flowers for her wedding back in 2010. This quest sparked a passion that led her to establish Tanglebloom in 2013. As we delve into her story, you'll hear about the myriad challenges she faced in the world of flower farming and how she gracefully navigated them. Melissa also shares her innovative shift towards Agritourism, a move that has not only diversified her farm's offerings but also brought the beauty of Tanglebloom to a wider audience. One of the highlights of our conversation is the creation of Vermont's very first flower CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, a testament to her pioneering spirit and commitment to community engagement. Throughout our discussion, Melissa emphasizes her dedication to sustainable farming practices, a topic that resonates deeply with many of us. We also explore the undeniable charm and popularity of peonies, a flower that has captured the hearts of many. Melissa even offers a sneak peek into her comprehensive digital course on growing peonies, designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to grow these stunning blooms successfully. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical cut flower advice that you won't want to miss! So, grab your garden tools, find a cozy spot in your garden, and tune in to hear the full conversation with Melissa from Tangleboom. In This Episode You’ll Hear About: Melissa's journey to flower farming (00:02:30) Starting a flower CSA (00:07:18) Transition to agritourism and education (00:14:30) Focus on peonies and perennials (00:17:23) Agritourism and Glamping (00:22:48) Niche Down to Peonies (00:26:11) Lessons Learned and Challenges (00:33:00) Peony Growing Tips (00:36:56) Favorite Peony Varieties (00:42:57) Controlling botrytis and other diseases (00:49:08) Harvesting peonies and preventing thrips (00:57:52) Relocating and dividing peonies (01:02:25) Harvesting peonies in the first season (01:03:38) Harvesting and Marketing Strategy (01:04:49) Peony Course (01:07:44)Show notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/06/15/ep-25-growing-peonies-with-tanglebloom-farm/ Learn More About Melissa & Tanglebloom: GrowAndSellPeonies.com - The Peony Course Tanglebloom.com - Learn more about Tanglebloom Flower Farm & Stays @tanglebloom - Follow on Instagram***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming!

Have you ever wondered about the art of drying flowers and creating stunning arrangements that last a lifetime? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we have the pleasure of hearing from Hannah Muller, a cut flower farmer located in the beautiful Capay Valley of Northern California. Hannah shares her journey from growing up on Full Belly Farm to becoming a wedding farmer-florist to shifting her focus to dried flowers. We explore the process of drying flowers, the best conditions for drying, and the importance of harvesting at the right stage. Plus, get a glimpse into Hannah's newly released book, "Designing with Dried Flowers," which offers 32 unique arrangements that capture the enduring beauty of dried flowers. From everyday wreaths to breathtaking celebration pieces, Hannah teaches us how to craft these beautiful arrangements ourselves, whether from a backyard garden or a simple supermarket bouquet. Tune in to today’s episode to discover the secrets of preserving the fleeting beauty of flowers into something permanent and the joy of connecting people to the earth through Hannah's work. In This Episode You'll Hear About: 00:02:29 - Hannah's Journey to Writing Her Book 00:03:05 - Growing Up on Full Belly Farm 00:05:01 - College Years and Return to the Farm 00:06:11 - Transition to Wedding Flowers 00:09:05 - Impact of COVID-19 on Wedding Industry 00:10:55 - Writing the Book on Dried Flowers 00:13:10 - Personal Stories and Inspirations in the Book 00:14:46 - Evolution of Flower Growing at Full Belly Farm 00:18:19 - Incorporating Dried Flowers into the Business 00:22:46 - Tips for Drying Flowers at Home 00:32:07 - Sunflowers and Other Dried Flowers 00:33:56 - Inside the Wreath Room 00:38:19 - Favorite Dried Flowers and Techniques 00:39:17 - Harvesting and Drying Techniques 00:41:28 - Experimenting with Drying Different Flowers 00:43:10 - Importance of Harvest Stage for Drying 00:45:13 - Outlets for Selling Dried FlowersShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/06/04/episode-24-designing-with-dried-flowers-hannah-muller-full-belly-farm/ Learn More About Hannah: https://www.instagram.com/farmerhands/ https://www.instagram.com/wreathroom/ https://www.instagram.com/full_belly_farm/ https://fullbellyfarm.com/ Designing With Dried Flowers Book: https://amzn.to/4bADBC1***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Are you curious about what it takes to be a sustainable farmer-florist? In episode 23, we  delve into the vibrant world of flower farming with Heather Staten from Heather's Flower Farm in Hood River, Oregon. Heather's journey from an avid gardener to flourishing flower farmer is a testament to her love for the earth and the beauty of cultivation. In this episode, Heather shares her passion for growing over 250 varieties of flowers and foliage on her family's 18-acre property in Hood River, Oregon. From her commitment to sustainability, using no-till techniques and natural fertilizers, to her dedication to reducing the floral industry's carbon footprint, Heather's Flower Farm is a true example of eco-friendly flower farming. Discover how Heather's flower farm is a family endeavor, with her husband, Ben, crafting the farm's infrastructure, and their children, Lottie and Jake, actively involved in the field and design. From weddings and events to bouquet subscriptions and farmer's markets, Heather's business model showcases the beauty and joy of locally grown flowers as a sustainable alternative to imported blooms. Join us in this episode as we explore Heather's insights into the world of flowers, her tips for successful cut flower growing, and the joy of connecting with the season through blooms. Tune in to hear about her unique approach to bouquet subscriptions, the art of floral design, and the beauty of foraging for greenery on her picturesque property. In This Episode You'll Hear About: 00:02:36 - Heather's journey into flower farming 00:06:02 - Overview of Heather's business model 00:08:42 - Heather's approach to full-service weddings 00:14:38 - The value of investing in floral education 00:26:44 - Sustainability practices in the wedding industry 00:29:39 - Building a hoop house for flower farming 00:30:25 - Forcing tulips in a hoop house 00:31:57 - Benefits of growing perennials for flower farming 00:35:50 - CSA bouquet subscriptions 00:43:23 - Benefits of growing perennials for sustainable flower farming 00:46:16 - Utilizing foraged greenery for floral arrangements 00:50:48 - Importance of local flowers 00:53:19 - Family involvement in Heather's flower farmShownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/05/28/ep-23-farmer-florist-heather-staten-heathers-flower-farm/Learn More About Heather’s Flower Farm: https://heathersflowerfarm.com/ https://www.instagram.com/heathersflowerfarm/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Have you ever wondered what happens when a passion for music and farming intertwine to create a symphony of nature and artistry? In Episode 22 of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we journey down South to Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast of Australia to chat with the remarkable Bec McConnell of Serenade Farm. Bec shares with us the beautiful story of how her love for gardening and flowers was nurtured from childhood memories of her Nan and Pop's garden, to her backpacking adventures in organic farms across England, Ireland, and Wales. After years of running an entertainment company, Bec and her husband finally realized their dream of owning a farm on Tamborine Mountain, where they initially focused on growing food. However, it was a serendipitous encounter with a bunch of dahlias that sparked Bec's passion for breeding these vibrant flowers. Over the years, Bec has dedicated herself to hybridizing dahlias, creating unique and stunning varieties like Serenade Curiosity, Serenade Moondance, and Serenade Sonata, each named with a touch of musical inspiration. Bec's story of passion and creativity will leave you inspired and eager to grow dahlias from seed. Tune in to hear the full interview with Bec McConnell of Serenade Farm and delve deeper into her journey of intertwining music and farming. *********** Today’s Episode Is Sponsored By Epic Gardening. Shop Epic Gardening’s Memorial Day Sale & Save 30% off All Birdies Beds + up to 55% off select gardening essentials with code THEFLOWERINGFARMHOUSE . Now through Monday, May 27th, Shop The Memorial Day Sale: https://glnk.io/73j50/thefloweringfarmhouse *********** In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:01:19-00:01:30 Introduction to Serenade Farm 00:02:36-00:03:29 Bec's Journey into Flower Farming 00:09:16-00:09:27 Location and Climate of Serenade Farm 00:10:59-00:11:09 Hybridizing Dahlias 00:15:21-00:15:32 Assessing and Selecting Dahlias 00:31:47-00:32:08 Breeding Progress and Future Plans 00:32:39-00:32:50 Connecting with Other Breeders 00:33:40-00:33:50 Impact of Social Media and Community 00:40:18-00:40:29 Sharing Dahlia Names and Inspirations 00:42:01-00:42:12 Challenges and Benefits of Breeding DahliasShow notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/05/21/ep-22-intertwining-music-and-flower-farming-with-serenade-farm/ Learn more about Bec McConnell & Serenade Farm https://www.instagram.com/serenade_dahlias/ https://serenadefarm.com.au/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming!

Are you ready to be inspired by a heartfelt story of healing, motherhood, and the beauty of dahlias? Join us on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast this week as we welcome Kamille, a flower farmer and mother, who shares her journey of finding solace in flower farming after experiencing grief and loss. Discover the therapeutic power of flowers and the importance of prioritizing family and relationships through Kamille's touching story. Hear about her passion for breeding dahlias and the value of mentorship and community within the dahlia world. Explore Kamille's approach to nurturing her daughters, each with their unique personalities, and gain insights into balancing flower farming with motherhood. Find inspiration in Kamille's message of encouragement and support, emphasizing the power of affirmation and building meaningful relationships. Join us on this episode as we delve into the intersection of flower farming, motherhood, and the beauty of nurturing relationships through Kamille's inspiring journey. Let the Backyard Bouquet Podcast be your guide to wisdom, joy, and the transformative power of flowers. Tune in now to let your backyard bloom with Kamille's heartfelt tale. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/05/15/ep-21-balancing-motherhood-and-dahlias-kamilles-flowers/ In This Episode You'll Hear About: 00:01:07 - Kamille's Background in Flower Farming 00:07:26 - Importance of Flowers in Feeding the Soul 00:09:25 - Nurturing Relationships with Daughters in the Garden 00:15:50 - Passion for Breeding Dahlias 00:20:34 - Building Relationships in the Dahlia Community 00:39:00 - Prioritizing Family and Flower Farming 00:46:18 - Balancing Motherhood and Flower Farming 00:47:06 - Avoiding Comparison and Fostering EncouragementLearn more about Kamille’s Flowers: https://www.kamillesflowers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kamillesflowers/ https://www.whatcomcountydahliasociety.com/********* JOIN THE DAHLIA PATCH Monthly LIVE Trainings, Q&A Sessions, & Online Learning Community To Help You Grow And Enjoy Healthy & Abundant Dahlias This Year https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/the-dahlia-patch-membership-growing-dahlias ********* ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Steve Kaufer, also known as Sunflower Steve, shares his journey from planting a prairie garden to becoming a renowned sunflower seed breeder. Starting with planting native prairie flowers in Wisconsin, Steve's passion for flowers has led him to cultivate unique sunflower varieties over the last 20 plus years. Through trial and error, Steve established relationships with large retailers and wholesalers, eventually focusing on high-volume production of sunflowers and zinnias. His innovative methods, such as using birds of prey to deter rodents, set him apart in the flower farming industry. Steve's dedication to seed breeding led to the discovery of a rare double-flowering sunflower named Gigi, sparking his interest in enhancing sunflower genetics. By carefully selecting and cross-pollinating different varieties, Steve has created stunning bicolor and maroonish colored sunflowers. Despite challenges like frost and pest control, Steve's unique approach to flower farming showcases the intersection of nature, innovation, and dedication in creating beautiful blooms. Join Steve on a journey through the vibrant world of sunflowers and the art of seed breeding, where each petal tells a story of resilience and growth. Shownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/05/12/ep-20-growing-sunflowers-with-sunflower-steve/ In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 01:15-05:16: Steve's Journey: From Flower Farming to Sunflower Breeding 13:19-16:23: Maximizing Efficiency and Planning for Contingencies 0:26-23:33: Evolution of Steve’s Flower Farm 24:35-32:01: From Hobby to Breeding Success 37:51-41:40: Protecting Sunflowers from Rodents and Birds 01:06:30-01:09:47: Sunflowers and Camp  01:10:33-01:14:33: Breeding and Growing Unique SunflowersLearn More About Sunflower Steve: · https://sunflowersteveseedco.com/ · https://www.instagram.com/sun_flower_steve · CBS Sunday Morning: https://www.cbs.com/shows/video/0Hr_4AyQAfnOZQeb44TCkxu_omlTvF4E/ · Camp: https://www.crosswoods.camp/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for The Flowering Farmhouse newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Welcome to a special BONUS episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Today, we're diving into the world of dahlias, my favorite flower, and I'm here to guide you through everything you need to know to have a successful start to dahlia growing season. In Today’s Bonus Episode, We’ll Cover: What you need to get started growing dahlias How to plant your dahlias How to set your dahlias up for success after planting Common Dahlia Growing Challenges Invitation to join The Dahlia PatchThe Dahlia Patch Membership Features: Monthly LIVE Training Webinars (replays available) Monthly LIVE Q&A Sessions (replays available) Expert Step-By-Step Growing Guidance From Jennifer of The Flowering Farmhouse Online Community To Connect With Other Passionate Dahlia Growers Interactive Opportunities To Grow Along (Growing From Seed, Taking Cuttings, Dividing Dahlias) Access to The Dahlia Patch anytime from your phone, tablet, and computerWho Is The Dahlia Patch For: First Time Dahlia Growers Dahlia Growers Wanting Step-By-Step Guidance Dahlia Growers Looking To Increase Their Production Dahlia Growers Wanting To Connect With Others Who Are Passionate About Growing DahliasOur Founding Membership in The Dahlia Patch is available through May 1st, 2024. Be sure to lock-in this introductory rate today. We'd love to have you join us in The Dahlia Patch! Learn More & Join The Dahlia Patch: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/the-dahlia-patch-membership-growing-dahlias

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Nicole from Cherry Garden and the Let's Grow Girls podcast. Nicole shares her inspiring journey from starting with a small U.K. allotment to transforming her backyard into a beautiful cut flower haven. Nicole's passion for sustainable flower farming shines through as she shares her experiences of transitioning from a supermarket flower shopper to a micro flower farmer. Juggling her flower farming endeavors with life with her hens and pugs, Nicole's dedication to creating a floral-filled life is truly admirable. We delve into Nicole's decision to move her flower farming operation from her allotment to her backyard, a decision that was sparked by a desire for more joy and convenience in her gardening experience. The challenges she faced at the allotment, including weed pressure and brambles, led her to make the switch, which has brought back the joy and excitement of growing flowers. Nicole shares her favorite flowers, including the beloved Cafè au Lait dahlia and the mesmerizing ball-shaped dahlias. She also discussed her love for sweet peas, roses, and tulips, highlighting the beauty and magic of each flower variety. Nicole's dedication to sustainable and joyful flower farming is truly inspiring, and her insights and experiences are sure to resonate with flower enthusiasts and aspiring growers alike. Don't miss out on Nicole's inspiring journey and valuable insights! Tune in to the full episode on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. ********* Are You Growing Dahlias This Year? Join Us In The Dahlia Patch: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/the-dahlia-patch-membership-growing-dahlias ********* Shownotes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/04/28/ep-19-from-allotment-to-backyard-cut-flower-farm/ In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Nicole's Flower Growing Journey 00:05:30 - Growing Sweet Peas 00:08:34 - Nicole's First Year of Flower Growing 00:11:46 - The Joy of Growing and Sharing Flowers 00:13:06 - The Impact of Gardening During Lockdown 00:16:07 - Moving from Allotment to Backyard Gardening 00:23:38 - The Beauty of Lilacs and Daffodils 00:25:07 - Favorite Sweet Pea Varieties 00:28:30 - Sourcing Sweet Peas in the UK 00:31:21 - Transitioning Roses from Allotment to Backyard 00:36:11 - Favorite Flowers: Dahlias and Sweet Peas 00:42:52 - Strengthening Dahlia Stems with Calcium 00:44:38 - Decision to Move Flower Growing to BackyardLearn more about Nicole and Cherry Garden: Cherry Garden on IG: www.instagram.com/nicoleatcherrygarden Let’s Grow Girls Podcast on IG: www.instagram.com/letsgrowgirlspodcast/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for The Flowering Farmhouse newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode we are joined by Jess Buttermore, of Cedar House Living. Jess is a dedicated homesteader, published author, and passionate advocate for incorporating flowers and herbs into daily life in a mindful way. Located in the picturesque mountains outside of Seattle, Washington, Jess has cultivated a small three-acre farm that serves as a sanctuary for botanical enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels. Jess shares her journey from being a photographer to becoming a flower farmer and herbalist. She discusses how her career transitioned during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading her to focus on her homestead. Jess emphasizes the importance of understanding light when photographing flowers and provides valuable tips for capturing beautiful garden images using a smartphone. The conversation delves into Jess's published works, including "The Love Language of Flowers," a book co-authored with Lisa McGinnis, which explores the meanings behind different flowers and herbs. Jess explains the significance of flowers like Hellebores, Dahlias, and Peonies, sharing personal stories and connections to these blooms. Additionally, Jess shares her most recent book, "Seasonal Living with Herbs," which focuses on herb gardening and integrating herbs into everyday life and bouquets. She highlights the importance of understanding the meanings of herbs and flowers, as well as the practical aspects of gardening, such as seed starting and garden themes. Tune in as this episode offers insights into flowers and the meanings, cultivation, and the joy they bring to both the grower and the recipient. ***************************************************** Join Us In The Dahlia Patch! Are you ready to grow beautiful, healthy, and abundant dahlias this year? If YES, then you're invited to grow with us in our online learning community! Join by May 1st for Founding Member Pricing Join The Dahlia Patch As A Founding Member: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/the-dahlia-patch-founding-member ***************************************************** In This Episode You’ll Hear About: 00:02:55 - Introduction of Jess Buttermore and Cedar House Living00:08:02 - Importance of watching light for photography00:14:31 - Tips for taking better pictures of flowers in gardens00:31:41 -"The Love Language of Flowers" book00:35:07 - Meaning of flowers in "The Love Language of Flowers" book00:41:24 - Mother's Day arrangements00:47:37 - Personal favorite flowers and their meanings00:51:31 - "Seasonal Living with Herbs" Learn more about Jess Butterfield & Cedar House Living: https://cedarhouseliving.com/ https://www.instagram.com/cedarhouseliving/ Mother’s Day Planter: https://cedarhouseliving.com/blogs/news/the-meaningful-mothers-day-planter Photography Tips: https://cedarhouseliving.com/blogs/news/artfully-photographing-your-homestead***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode, Brooke Palmer from Jenny Creek Flowers shares her inspiring story of how she seamlessly balances her teaching career with her blossoming flower farm for the past three years. However, her deep-rooted love for gardening and the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has played a pivotal role in shaping her path towards full-time flower farming. As Brooke opens up about her transition from a backyard gardener to a flourishing flower farmer, she unveils the strategic decisions and heartfelt moments that led her to cultivate her dream. From setting up infrastructure to conducting market research, Brooke's journey is a testament to the dedication and passion required to thrive as a cut flower farmer. In this episode we also discuss winter-forced tulips and the meticulous process of growing thousands of blooms both in Brooke’s cellar and in the field. Brooke's commitment to spreading joy through her flowers is evident in every stem she nurtures, making her story a captivating blend of dedication and beauty. Tune in to this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast to be inspired by Brooke's remarkable story of growth, resilience, and the transformative power of flowers. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/04/09/ep-17-brooke-palmer-jenny-creek-flowers-from-school-teacher-to-full-time-flower-farmer/  In this episode, you’ll hear about: Brooke's Journey into Flower Farming: 00:00:57 Brooke's Background as a Teacher and Flower Farmer: 00:01:37 Impact of COVID on Brooke's Flower Farming Journey: 00:03:37 Discussion on Growing Zones: 00:06:05 Brooke's Gardening Experience in the Pacific Northwest: 00:08:10 Transition from Gardener to Flower Farmer: 00:09:24 Winter Forcing Tulips: 00:23:42 Brooke's Decision to Become a Full-Time Flower Farmer: 00:38:08 Brooke's Tubers Sale Preparation: 00:40:00 Brooke's Partnership with Wide Awake Bakery: 00:46:28 Favorite Tulip Varieties Recommended by Brooke: 00:48:32Learn more about Brooke Palmer and Jenny Creek Flowers Visit Jenny Creek Flowers Jenny Creek Flowers on Instagram Jenny Creek Flowers on Facebook***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Madeline Cooper left behind city life when she traded in her stilettos for muck boots to flower farm in zone 2b. She’s now the soul behind Fraiche Flower Farm in Alberta, Canada. Madeline’s journey from fashionable glam to the gritty charm of flower farming reveals a world where pink blooms and sweet peas flourish under her nurturing care. In this episode, Madeline recounts her move to Alberta and how her initial hobby of gardening blossomed into a thriving, organic flower farm. She shares her transition from high heels to garden boots, embracing the rural life with a spirit that infuses her farm with joy and community connection. Listen to this episode to gain insights into the challenges of cold-climate gardening, including tips on growing ‘cool flowers,’ overwintering techniques, and the value of perennials. Madeline’s innovative approach, from her detailed research to practical pest management, exemplifies her dedication to sustainable farming. Madeline’s story is not just inspiring but also a practical guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of flower farming in harsh climates. Join us as Madeline Cooper from Fraiche Flower Farm shares her flower farming journey on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, offering a glimpse into the life of a woman who transformed her passion for flowers into a beacon of beauty and resilience in the world of cut flower farming. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:02:25 - Madeline's Journey to Flower Farming00:04:10 - Adjusting to a New Climate00:06:04 - Land Utilization and Challenges00:08:04 - Growing Flowers In A Short Growing Season in Zone 2B00:10:39 - Overwintering Flowers in Zone 2B00:13:27 - Madeline's Peony Collection00:14:52 - Importing Plants to Canada00:16:29 - Protecting Roses Over Winter00:18:34 - Growing Cool Flowers Like Sweet Peas00:20:09 - Impact of Drought on the Farm00:21:13 - Pulse Watering Technique00:22:48 - Sweet Peas and Pink Flowers00:28:57 - Breeding Cosmos00:31:20 - The Story Behind Fresh Flower Farm's Name00:39:17 - Using High Brix Molasses00:41:58 - Hosting Events on the Farm00:43:04 - Integrating Other Passions with Flower Farming Learn more about Madeline Cooper and Fraiche Flower Farm: Visit Fraiche Flower Farm: www.fraicheflowerfarm.com/ Follow Fraiche Flower Farm on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fraicheflowerfarm***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Today we are joined by Niki Irving, owner of Flourish Flower Farm and the SE Regional Director of the ASCFG. Nestled in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, Niki's journey into flower farming is a beautiful tale of turning dreams into reality, rooted in her deep love for plants and nature. With a background in outdoor education and a family history in horticulture, Niki's affinity for growing, nurturing, and creating beauty shines through in every bloom that graces her nine-acre farm. From lush, seasonally-inspired arrangements for weddings and events to sharing her expertise in her best-selling book "Growing Flowers," Niki's commitment to sustainable flower farming and her belief in the transformative power of flowers is truly inspiring. In this episode, Niki shared valuable insights on her journey, including the importance of patience, the lessons learned from failures, and the strategic planning behind her diverse selection of perennials and annuals. From hydrangeas to zinnias, ranunculus to cosmos, Niki's farm is a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures that reflect her passion for creating stunning bouquets. So flower friends, grab your gardening gloves and get ready to be inspired by Niki's dedication to nurturing the land and spreading beauty through her flourishing flower farm. Tune in to this episode to learn more about Niki's journey, her favorite flowers to grow, and her tips for successful flower farming. Let's let our backyards bloom with Niki's wisdom and expertise! In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:02:23 - Nikki Irving's Journey into Flower Farming 00:07:25 - Challenges and Lessons of Moving Farms 00:11:24 - Finding and Leasing Land for Flower Farming 00:19:11 - Lessons in Patience and Planning on the Farm 00:26:38 - Searching for the Forever Farm 00:32:07 - Planting Perennials on the Forever Farm 00:42:20 - Recommended Perennials for Flower Farming 00:47:58 - Annual Flowers Grown on the Farm 00:53:03 - Bouquet Ingredient Categories and FavoritesShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/03/26/episode-15-flourish-flower-farm-with-niki-irving/ Learn more about Niki Irving & Flourish Flower Farm: Visit Website: https://www.flourishflowerfarm.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishflowerfarm/ Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishflowerfarmNC Signed Copy of Growing Flowers Book: https://www.flourishflowerfarm.com/shop/growingflowersbook***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode, Ben Hanna of Heirloom Roses provides valuable insights into growing and caring for roses, offering expert advice on pruning, fertilizing, and maintaining healthy plants. From the importance of sunlight and soil conditions to the best practices for feeding and watering roses, Ben's insightful tips will help you cultivate a vibrant and thriving rose garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, Ben's advice on planting, pruning, and caring for roses will empower you to create a beautiful and flourishing garden. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:05:30 - Ben Hanna's Journey to Heirloom Roses Ownership 00:12:08 - Shipping and Planting Roses 00:16:26 - Planting Roses in Different Seasons 00:17:02 - Who Should Grow Roses? 00:17:58 - Growing Zones and Rose Suitability 00:18:49 - Own Root Roses vs. Grafted Roses 00:20:08 - Propagating Roses and Patent Rules 00:23:35 - Tips for Growing Roses Successfully 00:26:02 - Fertilizing Roses for Cut Flower Production 00:27:56 - Harvesting Roses for Cut Flowers 00:29:21 - Growing Roses for Cut Flowers: Timing and Tips 00:32:35 - Pruning Roses: Importance and Techniques 00:40:13 - Pruning Tips: The PRUNE Method 00:45:34 - Enjoying Your Roses After Pruning 00:47:01 - Handling Pests and Diseases on RosesShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/03/19/ep-14-mastering-the-art-of-growing-roses-with-ben-hanna-heirloom-roses/ Learn more about Ben Hanna & Heirloom Roses Visit: https://heirloomroses.com/ Guardians of the Garden Beneficial Insects PureProtect Rose Spray Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heirloomroses/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heirloomrosesusa YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heirloomrosesSAVE 20% Off your next rose purchase! Heirloom Roses is offering The Backyard Bouquet listeners 20% off all roses with the code BACKYARD24. Offer is valid through 4/30/24. ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for our newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Pinterest | Website

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet, we explore the profound impact of gardens on our lives. This episode features published author Christie Purifoy and revolves around how gardens grow roots, connection, wholeness, and hope. Christie shares her journey from a hesitant gardener to a passionate cut flower gardener, emphasizing the transformative power of gardening. Through heartfelt stories and expert advice, Christie eloquently captures the essence of gardening and its ability to foster connections with nature and the human experience. In this episode, Christie also shares with us her latest book, "Seed Time and Harvest," which delves into the abundant life thriving in our gardens and the profound connections they create. This episode highlights the cyclical nature of gardening, offering insights into finding hope and resilience through the changing seasons. Christie's personal anecdotes, from providing solace during times of grief to witnessing the beauty of nature, underscore the therapeutic and hopeful qualities of gardening. Join us as we explore the beauty and joy of gardening. The episode serves as a reminder of the transformative power of our gardens in nurturing hope, connection, and beauty in our lives. Tune in to discover how gardens can inspire and uplift the soul. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:10:22 - Hope Gardens Grow Roots, Connection, Wholeness, and Hope 00:15:59 - Impact of Flowers on Connection and Joy 00:17:46 - Gardening as a Powerful Tool for Connection and Hope 00:21:46 - Legacy and Connections Through Gardening 00:24:14 - Establishing Roots and Connections in the Garden 00:28:01 - Gardening as a Source of Hope in Challenging Times 00:32:33 - Writing and Sharing Lessons from the Garden 00:40:14 - Christy Purifoy's Book Trilogy and Future Projects 00:44:37 - Importance of Paying Attention in Gardening and Writing 00:46:06 - This Year's Garden Plans 00:49:00 - Balancing Motherhood and Gardening with ChildrenLearn More About Christie Purifoy: https://www.christiepurifoy.com/ Follow Christie on Instagram Christie's New Book: Seedtime & HarvestShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/03/12/episode-13-gardening-stories-of-hope-and-resilience-with-christie-purifoy/ ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for e-newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

Have you been wanting to add fragrant flowers to your garden? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia welcomes garden guru Stefani Bittner to share her expertise on creating beautiful and productive gardens that nourish both body and soul. Stefani, the visionary owner of Homestead Design Collective, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainable gardening practices. Throughout the episode, Stefani discusses the importance of understanding your property for gardening, choosing low-water plants, and designing gardens that blend beauty with productivity. She emphasizes the value of incorporating trees, shrubs, and perennials into flower farms to create a diverse ecosystem that supports wildlife and enhances the beauty of the garden. Learn about the concept of regenerative flower farming and how to integrate perennial plants into your garden to create a more sustainable and diverse landscape. Stefani also shares practical tips on harvesting and using fragrant flowers for tea, medicinal bouquets, and natural scent projects. Tune in to this episode for valuable insights and inspiration on how to create a garden that not only delights the senses but also supports a thriving ecosystem. Join Jennifer and Stefani as they delve into the world of garden design and flower farming, and discover the joy of cultivating your own backyard oasis. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:03:13 - Stephanie's Journey into Gardening 00:07:23 - The Impact of Personal Loss on Career Change 00:10:49 - The Role of Luck and Opportunity in Career Growth 00:11:53 - The Influence of Stephanie's Father on Her Career 00:15:15 - The Importance of Water Management in Gardening 00:17:08 - The Shift Away from Traditional Lawns 00:19:01 - Redesigning Front Yards for Beauty and Productivity 00:23:45 - Stephanie's Favorite Fragrant Plants 00:30:19 - The Emotional Connection to Fragrant Plants 00:32:55 - The Role of Gardens in Our Lives 00:37:43 - Multi-Purpose Plants and Tea Bouquets 00:39:40 - Preserving Natural Scents from the Garden 00:43:20 - The Connection Between Regenerative Farming and Gardening 00:46:09 - The Benefits of Perennial Plants in Flower FarmingShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/03/05/episode-12-growing-a-fragrant-flower-garden-with-stefani-bittner/ ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Lori Bochner from Bochner Farms, a picturesque flower farm nestled in rural central Iowa countryside. Lori's journey into the world of flower farming was an unexpected adventure, born out of a love for cultivating beauty in her suburban surroundings. From a home adorned with blooming flowers to a sprawling farm bursting with thousands of blooms, Lori's transformation into a flower farmer is a true testament to the magic of following one's heart. Join us as Lori shares the story of Bochner Farms and the journey of turning a dream into reality. From the joys of country living to the challenges and triumphs of flower farming, Lori's tale is sure to leave you feeling inspired. In this episode, hear about Lori's accidental journey into flower farming, starting from a simple weekend retreat for camping and fishing on 50 acres of raw land to a full-fledged farm with a farmhouse and fields brimming with vibrant flowers.  Discover the beauty of the cottage garden at Bochner Farms, a healing place that emerged from a place of loss and grief, showcasing the power of flowers to bring comfort and solace. Learn about the Giving Color Initiative, where every flower purchased from the farm contributes to feeding the hungry through donations to Meals from the Heartland. Get ready to be inspired by the passion and dedication of Lori Bochner and the beauty of flowers in this heartwarming and insightful episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:02:37 - Introduction to Bochner Farms 00:15:51 - Managing U-cuts and flower harvesting 00:25:20 - Favorite flowers to grow from seed 00:30:24 - Creation of the cottage garden 00:35:36 - Giving Color Initiative at Bochner Farms 00:43:47 - Plans for the upcoming year 00:49:05 - Hosting events at the flower farm and the size of gatherings 00:51:11 - Advice from Lori BochnerShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/02/27/lori-bochners-journey-from-home-gardener-to-flower-farmer/ Learn more about Bochner Farms: https://bochnerfarms.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bochnerfarms https://www.facebook.com/bochnerfarms***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

Have you ever wanted to start an urban or micro flower farm? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Dee Hall of Mermaid City Flowers as she shares her journey as a sustainable, urban flower farmer in Norfolk, Virginia. Dee shares the joys and challenges of growing native perennials, building a micro-flower farm on multiple urban plots, and fostering a sense of community among flower farmers. Discover the importance of supporting local growers, the beauty of incorporating native plants into arrangements, and the power of collaboration within the flower farming community. Gain insights into starting your own flower farm, exploring the world of native perennials, and finding inspiration in sustainable growing practices. From the vibrant blooms of an urban flower farm to the beauty of native perennials, this episode is a celebration of the joy and wisdom found in cultivating flowers. Listen to the conversation to learn about the benefits of growing local, the impact of climate change on flower farming, and the value of creating connections within the flower farming community. Whether you're a backyard gardener or aspiring flower farmer, this episode will inspire you to let your backyard bloom and embrace the beauty of sustainable and regenerative growing practices. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:01:29 - Dee Hall's Flower Farming Journey00:06:36 - Utilizing Available Growing Spaces00:07:19 - Community Flower Farming00:08:57 - "Why Not Me?"00:10:22 - Benefits of Creating Flower Farming Communities00:14:34 - Childhood Influences on Flower Farming Passion00:16:51 - Planning and Preparing for Flower Growing Season00:19:43 - Favorite Flowers to Grow00:22:33 - Managing Growing Spaces and Plots00:26:29 - Flower Farming Business Model and Offerings00:27:13 - Local Farmer's Markets00:31:32 - Tidewater Flower Collective00:36:33 - Local Flowers for Weddings00:44:44 - Black Flower Farmers Collective00:53:03 - Native Plants and Sustainability in Flower Farming00:56:04 - Learning in Flower Farming Episode 10 Show NotesDee Hall and Mermaid City Flowers: https://www.mermaidcityflowers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mermaidcityflowers https://www.blackflowerfarmers.com/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. New episodes every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

Do you want to sell your flowers to florists but don't know where to start? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, hear from local flower farmer, Heather Cain of Petal Pink Flowers about her experience selling specialty cut flowers to local florists. Heather shares her journey of building relationships with florists and the importance of communication in the flower farming business. She also gives valuable insights into the process of growing and selling specific flowers, such as lisianthus, stock, and phlox. Join us as we dive into the challenges and joys of selling to florists and learn from Heather's expertise in the field. As a flower farmer, Heather understands the unpredictable nature of the business and the need for flexibility and problem-solving. She shares her experiences with weather-related challenges, such as a heatwave and an ice storm, and how she has adapted her farming practices to overcome these obstacles. Heather also highlights the joy of involving her children in the farm work and the valuable life lessons they have learned through their involvement. Listen now to this episode to gain valuable insights into the world of selling specialty cut flowers to florists and the rewards and challenges that come with it. Episode Show Notes In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:01:26 - Heather Kane's introduction and background 00:05:31 - Growing flowers in Eugene, Oregon 00:08:46 - Building relationships with local florists 00:12:08 - Weekly availability sheet for florists 00:14:36 - Choosing which flowers to grow 00:19:05 - Seed starting process in a water heater closet 00:20:19 - Challenges faced during extreme weather conditions 00:25:02 - Growing snapdragons and dealing with rust 00:26:24 - Spring flower subscription model 00:32:14 - The joy of growing daffodils and tulips 00:35:56 - Challenges and lessons learned in flower farming 00:40:13 - Moments of joy in flower farming 00:49:38 - Involving children in flower farming 00:54:03 - Advice for parents on involving kids in farm workLearn more about Heather Cain and Petal Pink Flowers Petalpinkflowers.com Follow Petal Pink Flowers on Instagram: @petalpinkflowers***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes every Tuesday to keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we have the pleasure of hearing from Stacy Ling, a master gardener and published author. Stacy is also a home and garden blogger who shares her passion for gardening and helps beginners find their inner green thumb. Stacy’s gardening journey began over 25 years ago when she was inspired by her neighbor's beautiful cottage garden. Despite having no prior gardening experience, Stacy started small with houseplants and gradually expanded her gardening skills. She eventually moved to a home with more space and began planting perennials, annuals, and shrubs, creating beautiful gardens that brought her joy. In this episode, learn the importance of starting with easy-to-grow flowers to build confidence and success in the garden. Stacy also shares her experience with winter sowing, a method of starting seeds outdoors in containers, which can be a simple and effective way to grow flowers. Join us as we delve into the concept of companion planting and how certain flowers can attract beneficial insects and deter pests. Stacy emphasizes the importance of choosing flowers that thrive in your specific growing conditions and offers tips for selecting the right plants for your garden. Stacy's newly released book, "The Bricks ‘N Blooms Guide to a Beautiful and Easy-Care Flower Garden" offers practical advice, design tips, and growing techniques for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Stacy's goal is to inspire and empower readers to create their own beautiful flower gardens and find joy in the process. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Stacy's insights and passion for flowers will inspire you to let your backyard bloom. Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/02/06/episode-8-master-gardener-stacy-ling/ In this episode: 00:02:00 - Stacy's background 00:05:30 - Learning from failures and the importance of perseverance 00:09:56 - Starting a cut flower garden and recommended flowers for beginners 00:13:42 - Winter sowing 00:19:46 - The importance of companion planting 00:23:06 - Flowers and plants that bring joy 00:26:07 - Involving children in gardening 00:30:26 - Favorite flowers for arranging bouquets 00:34:26 - Using fillers and greenery in flower arrangements 00:36:54 - Spreading joy through flowers and sharing with others 00:38:36 - The release of Stacy's book 00:53:39 - Stacy's advice for starting a gardenLearn more: https://stacyling.com/ https://www.instagram.com/bricksnblooms/ Buy Stacy’s Book: The Bricks ‘ N Blooms Guide To A Beautiful & Easy-Care Flower Garden***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Don’t miss new episodes every Tuesday to keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Misha Gillingham of Farmluxe. Misha shares her journey to becoming a flower farmer and the profound impact of blooms on ones overall well-being. Misha discusses her first introduction to gardening when she bought a farm in Washington seven years ago. She was inspired by the existing garden on the property and the joy of harvesting fresh food with her family. This experience sparked her passion for gardening and led her to expand her garden into a full-blown flower farm. Misha emphasizes the importance of starting with a practice garden and taking the time to learn and experiment before diving into larger-scale farming. She encourages listeners to be patient and not rush the process, as gardening is a continuous learning experience. The conversation also touches on the challenges Misha faced when transitioning to her new farm, Sky Dance on San Juan Island. The property presents unique obstacles such as a north-facing slope and rocky soil. However, Misha's determination and creativity has allowed her to overcome these challenges and create a beautiful garden. Misha shares her passion for connecting with local farmers and giving back to the community. She discusses her experience donating surplus food and flowers to the food bank and other organizations. Misha also reveals her future plans to establish a community garden on her farm, providing a space for people to learn and grow their own food. This episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for both seasoned gardeners and those curious about the connection between flowers, gardening, and well-being. Misha's wisdom and passion for nature and giving back shine through, making this a truly uplifting and informative conversation. In this episode: 00:01:59 - Introduction to Misha of Farmluxe 00:06:36 - Misha's first farm 00:19:44 - Challenges and requirements in finding a new farm 00:23:01 - Challenges of building a garden on a slope with 00:25:06 - Design elements & tips for incorporating arches & trellises 00:29:41 - Misha's five-year plan for her new flower farm 00:37:46 - Misha's garden club and online courses 00:40:58 - Gardening & flower farming tips for beginners 00:44:02 - Importance of supporting local and organic farming 00:55:09 - Final words and encouragement to start gardening and flower farmingShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/01/30/episode-7-misha-gillingham-farmluxe/ Learn more: Check out Farmluxe Online: https://farmluxe.com/ Join: Club Farmluxe Follow On Social: https://www.instagram.com/farmluxe/ Buy Misha's Book: Blooms & Dreams***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review?  New episodes every Tuesday to keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Instagram | Pinterest | Website

Are you dreaming of starting your own small-scale flower farm? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia interviews Erin Simmons, a successful flower farmer and mom of four. Erin shares her journey from being a lobbyist to trading in her high heels for muck boots and pursuing her passion for flower farming on Vashon Island. Erin provides valuable insights and advice for aspiring flower farmers, including tips on growing dahlias, daffodils, and zinnias, finding the right sales outlets, and the importance of connecting with mentors in the industry. She also opens up about the challenges of balancing family life and farming, offering valuable lessons on prioritizing and finding a healthy work-life balance. Whether you're a backyard gardener looking to take your passion to the next level or someone interested in the world of flower farming, this episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice. Tune in to learn from Erin's experiences and discover how you can let your backyard bloom with a small-scale flower farm of your own. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:02:03 – Erin’s background and journey into flower farming 00:06:06 – Involving her children in the flower farming process 00:11:05 – Growing daffodils and Erin’s favorite varieties 00:13:00 – Erin’s favorite dahlia varieties 00:23:23 – Erin’s favorite moments and experiences in flower farming 00:25:50 – Tips for buying dahlia tubers and finding new varieties 00:31:04 – Advice for starting a cut flower garden 00:36:37 – Selling flowers and finding sales outlets 00:40:03 – Balancing flower farming with family and personal health 00:44:31 – Plans and goals for the 2024 flower farming season 00:48:15 – Valuable advice for aspiring flower farmers 00:53:23 – The importance of mentors and community in flower farming Episode Show Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/01/23/small-scale-flower-farming-with-erin-simmons-handpicked-homestead/ Learn more about Erin Simmons & Handpicked Homestead https://www.handpickedhomestead.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HandpickedHomestead ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

Get ready to be inspired by this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast to create your own cottage-style flower garden! In today’s episode, host Jennifer Gulizia chats with Kim Robinson from Shiplap and Shells, a cut-flower gardener and blogger. Kim shares her journey of transforming her backyard into a stunning cottage-style garden overlooking the Puget Sound. From building raised garden beds to adding a beautiful greenhouse, Kim's garden has been featured in numerous magazines. She offers valuable advice on starting a garden, including the importance of planning, starting small, and implementing an irrigation system. Kim also shares her love for growing geraniums and the joy of sharing her flowers with her community. Tune in to this episode for a dose of gardening therapy and to learn valuable life lessons from the beauty of nature. Learn more about Kim and Shiplap and Shells: https://shiplapandshells.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shiplapandshells/ Growing A Cut Flower Garden Series Overwintering Your GeraniumsEPISODE SHOW NOTES: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/01/16/ep-5-kim-robinson-shiplap-and-shells/ In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:04:18 - Kim's journey from a non-gardener to a cut flower grower 00:07:04 - Planning and building the garden beds and greenhouse 00:12:08 - Features and functionality of Kim's greenhouse 00:16:26 - Starting seeds and the importance of a greenhouse 00:20:32 - Overwintering geraniums 00:26:57 - Starting seeds for the upcoming season 00:32:25 - Kim's favorite flower to grow 00:36:48 - Dealing with pests and challenges in the garden 00:40:01 - Valuable life lessons learned from working with flowers 00:46:38 - Sharing flowers with the community and donating to the community garden 00:50:01 - Advice for beginner gardeners: start slow, be patient, and use irrigation systems***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet***If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

Learn How To Grow Sweet Peas with Flower Farmer Marryn Mathis If you're listening, get ready to be inspired by the world of sweet peas in this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Host Jennifer Gulizia welcomes her friend Marryn Mathis from The Farmhouse Flower Farm, a renowned flower farmer in Stanwood, Washington. Marryn is known for her incredible dahlia field and her expertise in growing sweet peas. In this episode, Jennifer and Marryn dive deep into all things sweet peas. They discuss Marryn's passion for these beautiful flowers and the emotional connection they hold for her. Marryn shares heartwarming stories of the impact sweet peas have had on people's lives, from bringing back cherished memories to providing comfort during difficult times. In addition to sweet peas, Jennifer and Marryn touch on the topic of dahlias. They discuss the joys and challenges of growing dahlias from seed and the thrill of hybridizing new varieties. Marryn's dedication to her craft is evident as she shares her experiences and insights. You will hear about the importance of following your passion and finding joy in what you grow. You will be encouraged to embrace the learning process, even in the face of challenges, and to never give up on their dreams. So, if you're ready to immerse yourself in the world of sweet peas and gain valuable insights from a seasoned flower farmer, tune in to this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Jennifer and Marryn's enthusiasm and expertise will leave you inspired to let your backyard bloom with the beauty of sweet peas. In this episode, you’ll hear about: 00:02:24 - Marryn's Background and Journey into Flower Farming 00:05:10 - Marryn's Favorite Flower and The Emotional Connection 00:13:01 - Sweet Peas as a Family Affair 00:18:03 - Starting with Sweet Peas and Learning Along the Way 00:21:33 - Sweet Pea School Workshop Details 00:25:06 - Tips for Beginners Growing Sweet Peas 00:30:47 - Challenges and Struggles with Growing Sweet Peas 00:33:02 - Sweet Pea Growing Success Tips 00:36:00 - Harvesting and Selling Sweet Pea Seeds 00:42:01 - The Process of Breeding and Releasing Dahlias 00:43:52 - The Future of Hybridizing Sweet Peas 00:49:17 - Marryn's Upcoming Sweet Pea Book 00:57:30 - Marryn's Top Sweet Pea Varieties and Seed Sale PreviewShow Notes: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/01/09/growing-sweet-peas-with-marryn-mathis ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia is joined by Paul Matalucci of Apple Core Farm and Cut Flowers. Paul shares his journey from corporate communications to flower farming and offers valuable insights for both backyard gardeners and aspiring flower farmers. Learn about the challenges and joys of flower farming, the importance of choosing the right flowers for your climate, and the benefits of buying locally grown flowers. Paul also talks about his passion for growing irises and shares tips for growing and harvesting these beautiful blooms. Whether you're a flower enthusiast or considering starting your own flower farm, this episode is filled with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in and let your backyard bloom with the Backyard Bouquet Podcast! For a list of Paul's favorite Iris, be sure to check out the show notes here: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/01/06/episode-3-the-art-of-flower-farming-with-paul-matalucci-apple-core-farm-and-cut-flowers/ Be sure to click to listen! Learn more about Apple Core Farm and Cut Flowers https://www.applecorefarm.com/ https://www.instagram.com/applecorefarm/***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet, we're joined by the delightful Kara Jamison of Blooming Joy Flower Company. Dive into Kara's journey of going from backyard gardener to a leading voice in the cut flower industry, and discover how she honors her mother's legacy through the beauty of blooms. Kara shares her expertise on soil blocking, seed sowing, and the therapeutic power of gardening. Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer or dreaming of starting your own cut flower garden, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice to help your garden flourish. Grab your gardening gloves, garden snips, or your favorite vase because it’s time to grow your own backyard bouquet. Be sure to click to listen! For Show Notes, Please Visit: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/2024/01/01/episode-2-blooming-into-joy-with-kara-jamison-blooming-joy-flower-company/ Learn more about Blooming Joy Flower Company: https://stan.store/bloomingjoyflowerco***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website

In this first episode of the Backyard Bouquet podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia shares her background in growing cut flowers and how the podcast came to be. She recounts her childhood love for flowers and her dream of growing her own flowers to fill her home with bouquets. Jennifer started her floral journey with a small cutting garden in her backyard in 2007 and eventually moved to Hood River, Oregon, where she had more space to grow flowers. She shares how her farm, The Flowering Farmhouse, started with small beginnings and has grown to over an acre of cut flowers.  Inspired by the stories Jennifer has heard from the local flower community, she decided to start the Backyard Bouquet podcast to share the stories of backyard gardeners and flower farmers.  Grab your gardening gloves, garden snips, or your favorite vase because it’s time to grow your own backyard bouquet. Be sure to click to listen! ***Rate, Review, & Follow The Backyard Bouquet*** If you enjoyed this episode, will you please consider leaving the podcast a review? Your review helps make the podcast more discoverable to others and allows me to continue creating more episodes. I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about the episode. New episodes are coming every Tuesday to help keep your garden blooming! The Backyard Bouquet Podcast JOIN THE BACKYARD BOUQUET COMMUNITY ON FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowergardening Sign up for my newsletter: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.myflodesk.com/nlw4wua8s3 The Flowering Farmhouse: Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | Website