Flower Farming in New Zealand

Jo Robinson
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Welcome to Flower Farming in NZ—the podcast where we dig into the art of growing and selling beautiful blooms here in Aotearoa. I’m your host Jo Robinson, a grower, flower lover, and passionate supporter of local, seasonal flowers. Whether you're just starting out , or you’re already knee-deep in growing and selling flowers, this podcast is for you. Each episode, we’ll explore different aspects of growing flowers in New Zealand—from practical how-to guides and seasonal tips, to interviews with local growers, florists, and flower lovers across the country. Do join us on our flowery journey.

  1. Floristry Without Limits: Weddings, Workshops & World Travel with Cerina “The Flower Scout” S3E4

    26 APR

    Floristry Without Limits: Weddings, Workshops & World Travel with Cerina “The Flower Scout” S3E4

    In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, Jo Robinson sits down with Perth-based florist, writer, and global flower enthusiast Cerina Triglavcanin—also known as The Flower Scout. What started as a frustration with school ball corsages turned into a full-blown floristry career, international travel, and a writing platform documenting flower festivals, workshops, and design inspiration across the globe. Cerina shares how she built her skills from scratch, why she chose events over retail floristry, and how she combines freelancing, travel, and storytelling into a unique and evolving career in flowers. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Starting a Floristry Career Later in Life Why Cerina skipped retail floristry for events Freelancing in Event Floristry The flexibility (and unpredictability) of freelance work Designing with Intention - Fewer ingredients = higher design pressure and more intentional selection. Cerina’s signature approach: • Monochromatic palettes • “En masse” floral use • Limiting designs to three key ingredients • Sculptural forms and strong line work Cerina shares her experiences attending: • International flower festivals • High-level floral workshops • Large-scale installation events • Why workshops are as much about people as they are about technique From Florist to Writer: Building “The Flower Scout” • How Cerina began writing for Flowers Magazine Australia • Turning travel experiences into published articles • Starting a Substack as a creative outlet and long-term strategy • Using writing as a less physically demanding pathway within floristry Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:41 - Cerina’s background and passion for flowers 01:44 - How she started her floristry journey pre-COVID 02:12 - Her formal training via TAFE during the pandemic 03:32 - Balancing freelance events with personal design style 04:48 - The influence of travel and worldwide workshops 06:09 - The significance of international flower festivals 08:00 - How climate impacts flower choices in Perth 09:12 - Her approach to native Australian flowers and design principles 10:42 - The challenge of sourcing flowers locally & seasonally 12:36 - Her favourite flowers and arrangements 13:40 - Writing as an extension of her floristry passion and her Substack 15:53 - Planning upcoming projects like Subi Blooms and native flora installations 16:38 - Her future goals, including judging and ongoing learning 18:07 - The story behind her publication in Blumenhaus 19:40 - The story of her Substack handle 'The Flower Scout' 21:39 - How she chooses flower festivals and workshops globally 23:09 - Memorable flower festival experiences 25:39 - Insights into international wholesale markets 33:01 - The impact of quarantine laws and imports on local floristry 36:47 - Her outlook on the future of floristry & her evolving roles 44:05 - The potential shift from floristry to writing and sharing stories 46:39 - Her upcoming judging role and exciting plans 47:41 - Closing remarks and future collaborations Resources & Links: • Cerina's Substack - The Flower Scout • Flowers Magazine Australia • Blumenhaus Magazine • Chelsea Flower Show • Madrid Blooms • Waterlily Farm, Margaret River⁠ • https://theflowerscout.substack.com/p/leuca-creek-waterliliesConnect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers ⁠Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers⁠  Support Our Work! Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by: ·        Advertising in an episode ·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can ·       Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠ Music Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele    If You Enjoyed This Episode • Follow / Subscribe for more flower farming insights • Share with a fellow grower or florist • Leave a review to support the podcast

    49 min
  2. The Good, the Bad, and the Bleurgh: Realities from the 2025-26 NZ Flower Farming Season S3E3

    13 APR

    The Good, the Bad, and the Bleurgh: Realities from the 2025-26 NZ Flower Farming Season S3E3

    In this episode, Jo Robinson shares insights from flower farmers across New Zealand, highlighting what worked, what didn't, and practical lessons for future planning. Whether you're a seasoned flower farmer or just starting out, these real-world experiences offer valuable takeaways to refine your strategies and boost resilience. It was a season of "strange weather," featuring early heatwaves, torrential rain, and unexpected hail. Our thanks to Egmont Seeds for providing some of the images used in this episode. In this episode: • Key factors influencing season outcomes • Common challenges like weather extremes, pests, and crop failures • Successful crop choices and sales channels • Practical tips on crop management, pest control, and planting schedules • Planning for next season based on this year’s lessons • The importance of resilience and adaptability Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and season overview for flower growers 01:03 - Astrid’s experience at Gulf Harbour 01:33 - Vicky’s weather extremes in Northland 02:13 - Ellie’s slow start using fertiliser teas for flower production 02:51 - Melanie’s rainy season challenges and landscape-growing approach 03:31 - Daisy’s first year in cut flowers and learning curves 04:00 - Penelope’s season as an experienced grower 04:29 - Sophia’s organic practices and rapid early season growth in Canterbury 04:57 - Insights from Jo in Central Otago on spring flowers 05:36 - Emma’s diverse event work and the impact of weather 05:59 - Bronwyn’s resilience and recovery from hail damage 06:16 - Key activities and crops that thrived this season 07:14 - Successes and struggles 08:48 - Astrid’s experience with dahlias 10:10 - Penelope’s standouts 11:00 - Ellie’s high-density dahlias and airflow strategies 11:43 - Melanie’s marigolds and the early season flowering 12:37 - Sophia’s trial and error with spring blooms and mildew issues 14:07 - Jo’s success with tulips and ranunculus 16:29 - Challenges crops this year 19:14 - The impact of weather on crop quality 20:15 - Emma’s rain and temperature challenges with peonies and dahlia 22:19 - Wet winter and spring effects on planting and flowering timelines 23:54 - Adapting to unpredictable weather and wind damage 25:14 - Sale channels: Facebook Groups, wholesale and local markets 29:58 - How growers plan changes for next season 34:39 - Final thoughts: grow what does well where you are, and plan ahead Key Highlights & Takeaways: • Sales Strategy: Why a $30/$50 price choice model worked • Smart Solutions: Using diatomaceous earth for thrip control on Dahlias • Grow What Works: focus on what thrives in your specific microclimate. • Get the Transcript: Want to read the full breakdown? Leave a comment on this post/video, and we’ll send you the full transcript! • Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed these insights, please Like, Subscribe, and leave a Review! Follow Flower Farming in NZ on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/flower_farming_in_nz/ Already a flower farmer in NZ? Join the private Facebook group Flower Farming in NZ https://www.facebook.com/groups/3293079974103061 #FlowerFarminginNZ #NZFlowerFarmers #NZCutFlowerGrowers #CutFlowers #LocalFlowers #FlowerFarmingPodcast #FlowerFarminginNZPodcast #SustainableGrowing #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming Connect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers. Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/ Support Our Work! Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by: · Advertising in an episode · Sponsoring an episode or a season · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele

    30 min
  3. Mastering the Greenhouse Environment: S3 E2

    24 MAR

    Mastering the Greenhouse Environment: S3 E2

    Mastering the Greenhouse Environment Explore the intricacies of horticultural infrastructure and climate-adapted gardening in this conversation with Bruce Thurlow, a seasoned educator and horticulturist from Otago Polytechnic. Bruce shares practical insights on greenhouse management, greenhouse infrastructure, pest control and tools for growing sustainably amid changing climates. In this episode: The different greenhouse types and their environmental control systems, from mist houses to heated benches The significance of environment manipulation—water, airflow, and light control—in plant growth How to leverage technology like Wi-Fi enabled controllers for irrigation and germination chambers The challenges and solutions for pest management in greenhouses, emphasising visual inspections The importance of understanding plant-specific needs Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and Bruce's background 04:00 - Greenhouse infrastructure and types 08:00 - Environmental control in greenhouses 12:00 - Pest management strategies 16:00 - Transitioning to dry gardens 20:00 - Principles of dry garden design 24:00 - Water management and irrigation setup 28:00 - Soil and growing media choices 32:00 - Propagation techniques and timing 36:00 - Conclusion and final thoughts Resources & Links: • Otago Polytechnic • Inkbird Temperature Controllers This episode demonstrates that sustainable, climate-adapted horticulture relies on a combination of infrastructure, observation, and ecological understanding. When managing high-tech greenhouses the core principle remains: right plant, right place, right environment. Connect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers. Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers Support Our Work! Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by: · Advertising in an episode · Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠ Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele Key words: #flowerfarminginNZ #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming

    40 min

  4. 8 MAR

    Practical Horticulture Meets Smart Market Decisions at Huhu Gardens

    Season 3 Episode 1: In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, Jo Robinson chats with Mike Foster from Huhu Gardens in Huntly, a grower who has built a successful flower business by combining practical horticulture knowledge with smart market decisions.Mike shares his journey from nursery work and dairy farming to commercial flower farming, explains how his unique microclimate influences what he grows, and dives deep into practical production strategies for ranunculus, anemones, hydrangeas, and marigolds.The conversation covers everything from greenhouse design and plant spacing to selling through wholesalers, giving listeners real-world insights into running a profitable flower farm in New Zealand.Whether you're a new grower, an experienced flower farmer, or simply love learning about how flowers are produced, this episode is packed with valuable advice.In This Episode Jo and Mike discuss:How Huhu Gardens got its memorable nameMike’s journey from nursery growing to milking 800 cows to running a flower farmTransitioning from export hydrangeas to selling foliage locallyWhy ranunculus and anemones are valuable early-season cropsThe tunnel house setup that produces longer, high-quality stemsGrowing marigolds for the wholesale marketSelling flowers through wholesalers vs auctionsManaging quality control and reputation in the flower marketWhy foliage can sometimes be more profitable than flowersGrowing in a warm Huntly microclimate (with bananas and citrus!)The importance of volume, consistency, and market demandWhy new flower farmers should talk to wholesalers before plantingLessons learned from 20+ years in the flower industry Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction00:02 Meet Mike Foster from Huhu Gardens02:50 From nursery work to dairy farming to flower farming04:00 Early crops: callas, statice, and hydrangeas05:00 Growing ranunculus and anemones in tunnels07:00 Plant spacing and production volumes10:00 Tunnel house design and microclimate mesh13:00 Seasonal crop schedule at Huhu Gardens15:00 Growing the Coco series marigolds16:40 Hydrangeas: export markets and shifting to foliage19:00 Selling through wholesalers vs auctions21:00 Maintaining quality and grower reputation24:00 Hydrangea production and shade growing28:00 Chiller management and flower storage30:00 Rainfall and climate differences across NZ33:00 Summer weather challenges and storms36:00 Growing gypsophila and amaranthus40:00 Ranunculus production tips and disease management44:00 Using shade cloth in tunnels46:00 Advice for new flower farmers50:00 Lessons from decades in flower farming54:00 Growing lavender and enjoying the farmAbout the PodcastFlower Farming in New Zealand explores the realities of growing flowers commercially across New Zealand’s diverse climates. Hosted by Jo Robinson, the podcast features growers, florists, and industry experts sharing practical advice and real experiences.________________________________________🌷 Follow & ListenIf you enjoy the episode:Follow the podcast on SpotifySubscribe on YouTubeShare with another flower growerConnect with Our Sponsors: Freshcut Flower Wholesalers. Follow them on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/freshcutflowerwholesalers/ Support Our Work!Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by:· Advertising in an episode· Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele Key words:#flowerfarminginNZ#nzflowergrowers#nzflorists#sustainablefloristry#sustainableflowerfarming

    48 min

  5. 20 JAN

    Melanie The Wild Rose: Season 2 Episode 10

    In this episode of Flower Farming in NZ, Jo sits down with Melanie, a New Zealand flower farmer, florist, and entrepreneur, to explore how a love of gardening grew into multiple successful flower-based businesses. Melanie shares her journey from home gardener to running a commercial flower farm, florist shop, retail stores, and an online gift box business, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the realities of scaling in the flower industry. Together, Jo and Melanie discuss the challenges and rewards of flower farming in New Zealand, including working with a unique climate and landscape, plant selection for cut flower production, and the importance of growing flowers that are both beautiful and commercially viable. Drawing on her scientific background and years of hands-on experience, Melanie explains how she approaches flower selection, harvest timing, and sustainability, and why eco-friendly growing practices are essential to the future of floristry. The conversation also highlights Melanie’s strong commitment to community engagement, local charities, and events — and the powerful role flowers play in bringing joy, connection, and meaning to people’s lives. This episode is ideal for: Flower farmers and growers Florists and floral designers Anyone interested in sustainable floristry, flower business models, or growing flowers for picking Takeaways • Explore sustainable practices in flower farming. • Innovative techniques for eco-friendly floristry. • The joy of sharing flowers with the community. • Challenges and rewards of running a flower farm. • Importance of eco-friendly practices in floristry. • Future trends in the floristry industry. • Creative solutions for floral arrangements. • Engaging the community through flowers. • Balancing business and passion in floristry. • Insights into New Zealand's floral industry Chapters • 00:00:13 Introduction to Flower Farming • 00:22:50 Innovative Oasis Alternatives • 00:28:26 Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement • 00:38:18 Future Trends and Challenges in Floristry flower farming sustainable practices eco-friendly floristry community engagement innovative techniques New Zealand flowers floral arrangements gardening horticulture floristry business Community champions Fundraising Joy of flowers cut flower production

    43 min

  6. 20/12/2025

    Growing Together: The Collaborative Spirit of Flower Farming: Season 2 Episode 9

    In this episode of "Flower Farming in New Zealand," Jo Robinson welcomes Georgie Newbery of Common Farm Flowers. Georgie is a renowned flower farmer, a florist, an educator, and an author. Jo & Georgie discuss the importance of community in flower farming, the challenges and joys of growing flowers sustainably, and the impact of climate change on farming practices. Georgie shares her experiences at the Chelsea Flower Show and her passion for teaching and supporting small-scale flower farmers. The conversation highlights the value of local, sustainable flower farming and the importance of collaboration and innovation in the industry. Takeaways • Community is vital in flower farming, providing support and shared knowledge. • Sustainable practices in flower farming are essential for environmental health. • The Chelsea Flower Show is a prestigious event showcasing innovative floristry. • Teaching and sharing knowledge, strengthens the flower farming community. • Local flower farming supports the economy and reduces environmental impact. • Climate change presents challenges and opportunities for flower farmers. • Collaboration among flower farmers enhances resource sharing and innovation. • Georgie Newbery emphasizes the importance of using local materials in floristry. • The demand for locally grown flowers is increasing in urban markets. • Flower farming can be a fulfilling and impactful career choice. Chapters • 00:00:00 Introduction to Georgie Newbery • 00:03:00 The Importance of Community • 00:09:00 Sustainable Flower Farming • 00:15:00 Chelsea Flower Show Experience • 00:21:00 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge • 00:27:00 Challenges of Climate Change • 00:33:00 Collaboration in the Industry • 00:39:00 The Future of Flower Farming Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz Support Our Work! Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by: · Advertising in an episode · Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠ Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele Key words: #flowerfarminginNZ #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming #flower farming, #sustainable horticulture #Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal 2025 #community connections #local rural economy #floristry #small business education #flower farmers collaboration

    50 min

  7. 05/12/2025

    The Art of Plant Breeding with Dr. Keith Hammett: Season 2 Episode 8

    In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson interviews Dr. Keith Hammett, a renowned plant breeder known for his work with dahlias. The conversation explores Keith's journey into breeding plants, his inspirations, and the intricate processes involved in creating new varieties. Dr Keith shares insights into the challenges of breeding, the importance of genetic variability, and the aesthetic considerations that influence his work. The discussion also touches on the significance of protecting breeder rights, the role of marketers and retailers, and the joy that comes from connecting with flower farmers and enthusiasts. Dr Keith's passion for horticulture and dedication to his craft shine through as he reflects on his experiences and the impact of his work on the flower industry. Bullet Points: • Breeding requires a long-term vision, often spanning decades. • Dahlias are unique due to their genetic variability and breeding challenges. • The breeding process involves defining clear goals and selecting appropriate parent plants. • Aesthetics play a crucial role in the breeding of dahlias. • Maintaining breeding stock is essential for successful plant breeding. • The distillation process helps refine breeding selections over time. • Breeders need to protect their rights to recoup their investments. • Marketers and retailers are vital for bringing new varieties to market. • The joy of breeding comes from seeing the happiness it brings to others. • Naming new breeds can be both fun and challenging. The Important Bits!! • "You have to think in decades." • "The magic has never left me." • "I have a little white book." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Keith Hammett 02:48 The Journey into Dahlia Breeding 07:29 Breeding Goals and Inspirations 09:32 Understanding the Breeding Process 12:20 The Role of Exhibitors in Breeding 16:27 Genetic Variability in Dahlias 19:02 The Aesthetic of Dahlia Breeding 20:12 Favorite Dahlias and Surprises in Breeding 22:40 Challenges in Maintaining Breeding Lines 23:32 The Art of Plant Breeding 25:58 Navigating Plant Patents and Breeder Rights 29:37 The Role of Marketers in Plant Breeding 31:58 Understanding Plant Health and Breeding Stock 35:22 Seed Storage and Maintenance 36:50 The Impact of DNA Sampling in Breeding 40:31 The Importance of Collaboration in Plant Breeding 40:52 The Joy of Connecting Through Flowers 42:40 Naming New Breeds: A Creative Challenge Info for all show notes: Connect with Our Sponsors:(UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz   Support Our Work! Don’t forget, ifyou like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you cansupport our work by: ·        Advertising in an episode ·        Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can ·        Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠ Music Credit:Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele   Key words: #flowerfarminginNZ #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming #Dahlia breeding #plant breeding#horticulture #flower farming #genetic variability #breeding goals #plant variety rights #flower aesthetics #flower farmers #plant health

    45 min
  8. Blooming in the City with Marisa of Urban Floral Farmlet: Season 2 Episode 7

    21/11/2025

    Blooming in the City with Marisa of Urban Floral Farmlet: Season 2 Episode 7

    In this episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson welcomes Marisa from Urban Floral Farmlet. They discuss Marisa's journey from a corporate career to flower farming, the challenges of urban farming, and the impact of COVID-19 on her business. Marisa shares insights on growing flowers in limited spaces, the importance of community, and her experiences with various growing and floristry courses. The conversation also touches on the significance of local support and the joy flowers bring to people's lives. Takeaways • Marisa transitioned from a corporate career to flower farming during COVID-19. • Urban farming presents unique challenges and opportunities. • Community support is vital for local businesses. • Floristry courses offer valuable insights but may not suit everyone. • COVID-19 prompted a shift towards local and sustainable practices. • Marisa values the joy flowers bring to people's lives. • Growing flowers in urban spaces requires creativity and adaptability. • The Floret Scholarship provided Marisa with valuable resources. • Marisa emphasizes the importance of work-life balance. • Local collaborations enhance business resilience. Marisa's words of wisdom: Growing flowers in the city is unique. Flowers bring joy to people's lives. Community support is vital Urban farming requires creativity. Local collaborations are key. Work-life balance is crucial. The Floret Scholarship was invaluable. Local businesses need community support. Chapters • 02:04 Impact of COVID-19 • 06:36 Urban Farming Challenges • 13:47 Introduction and Marisa's Background • 17:19 Floristry Courses and Insights • 28:51 Community and Local Support • 43:47 Joy and Passion for Flowers Connect with Our Sponsors: (UFG) United Flower Growers: https://ufg.co.nz Support Our Work! Don’t forget, if you like the way we are connecting the NZ Flower Farming Community, you can support our work by: • · Advertising in an episode • · Sponsoring an episode or a season or you can • · Buy us a Coffee (make a donation) following this link ⁠https://coff.ee/flowerfarmersinnz⁠ Music Credit: Credit for some of the music in this episode goes to Shane Ivers - Happy Clappy Ukulele Key words: #flowerfarminginNZ #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming #flowerfarming #urbanflowerfarming #NewZealandFlowerFarmers #localbusiness #UrbanFloralFarmlet #JoRobinson

    50 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Flower Farming in NZ—the podcast where we dig into the art of growing and selling beautiful blooms here in Aotearoa. I’m your host Jo Robinson, a grower, flower lover, and passionate supporter of local, seasonal flowers. Whether you're just starting out , or you’re already knee-deep in growing and selling flowers, this podcast is for you. Each episode, we’ll explore different aspects of growing flowers in New Zealand—from practical how-to guides and seasonal tips, to interviews with local growers, florists, and flower lovers across the country. Do join us on our flowery journey.

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