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. JAN 20

    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

  2. 12/20/2025

    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

  3. 12/05/2025

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

    11/21/2025

    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

  5. 11/05/2025

    Exploring the World of Seeds with Sandy from Egmont Seeds: Season 2 Episode 6

    In this conversation, Jo Robinson chats with Sandy, the marketing manager at Egmont Seeds. They talk about her role, the history of Egmont Seeds, and the challenges and joys of working in the seed industry. Sandy shares insights into the company's operations, including sourcing seeds globally, ensuring seed is high quality, and the importance of understanding local growing conditions. The discussion also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on seed variety availability, the role of Egmont Seeds in the local flower farming community, and Sandy's personal experiences and preferences in gardening. Takeaways: • Sandy is the marketing manager at Egmont Seeds, focusing on customer needs and sourcing new plant materials. • Egmont Seeds started with John McCullough's passion for seeds, leading to the creation of New Zealand's largest seed company. • The company imports seeds globally and supplies retail businesses, nurseries, and commercial flower growers. • Sandy's horticultural background enriches her role, allowing her to contribute to both marketing and hands-on tasks in the business. • Egmont Seeds has expanded into growing sweet peas on a large scale, overcoming global supply challenges. • The company emphasizes the importance of understanding local growing conditions for successful seed cultivation. • Sandy shares personal gardening tips, including the use of heat mats for better germination and choosing plants based on personal preference. • Egmont Seeds is committed to sustainability, trialling compostable packaging while ensuring seed freshness. • The conversation highlights the difference between growing from seed and breeding, emphasizing the value of true breeding efforts. • Sandy encourages growers to choose seeds based on personal taste and local conditions for the best results. Sound Bites: • Egmont Seeds is New Zealand's largest seed company. • We import seeds from all over the world. • Understanding local growing conditions is key. • Sweet peas are now a major focus for us. • Sustainability is important, but freshness is key. • Choose seeds based on what you love to grow. • Breeding and growing from seed are not the same. • Heat mats can improve germination rates. • Our seeds are in gardens all over New Zealand. • Gardening is my happy place. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Egmont Seeds and Sandy's Role 02:41 The History and Growth of Egmont Seeds 05:10 Sandy's Horticultural Background and Personal Gardening 07:45 The Sweet Pea Project and Its Expansion 10:34 Sourcing and Importing Seeds Globally 13:10 Ensuring Seed Quality and Germination Rates 16:06 Choosing Varieties for New Zealand Conditions 18:39 Trialling New Varieties and Future Prospects 24:54 Common Seed Starting Mistakes 27:32 Tips for Successful Germination 29:13 Recommended Flower Varieties for Beginners 31:53 Understanding Seed Sourcing and Packaging 36:12 Sustainability in Seed Production 38:57 The Importance of Local Seed Production 42:57 Trends in Seed Demand 45:25 Egmont's Role in the Flower Farming Community 46:16 Personal Favourites in Flower Growing 48:50 Advice for New Seed Sourcing 50:37 Closing Thoughts and Support 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 #Egmont Seeds, #seedindustry, #horticulture, #seed sourcing, #seed quality, #local growing conditions

    44 min

  6. 10/19/2025

    The Art of Abundant Blooms in Event Floristry :Season 2 Episode 5

    In this inspiring episode of Flower Farming in New Zealand, host Jo Robinson welcomes event florist Michele Coomey for a rich conversation on the artistry and logistics of modern floristry. From her early days in retail to crafting large-scale floral installations, Michele shares how intuition, experience, and collaboration shape her work. Together, Jo and Michele explore the delicate balance between creativity and practicality, the magic of seasonal blooms, and the evolving expectations of wedding clients. Key Takeaways • Michele reflects on her transition from retail to event floristry and the lessons learned. • Balancing artistic vision with client expectations is a core challenge in the floral industry. • Seasonal flowers bring authenticity and charm to wedding arrangements. • International events pose logistical hurdles, especially around flower sourcing • A skilled stylist can elevate floral work from beautiful to unforgettable. • Jo champions the use of local and seasonal flowers for sustainable, meaningful designs. • Michele values deep relationships with local growers for access to unique varieties. • Workshops and shared knowledge strengthen the floral community. • Michele’s approach blends intuition with hands-on experience, creating abundant designs that resonate. Sound Bites • “Creating an abundance of blooms.” • “Balancing creativity and expectations.” • “Seasonal blooms for weddings.” • “From retail to event floristry.” • “Floral trends and innovations.” • “Local growers in floristry.” • “International floral challenges.” • “Floral community and workshops.” • “Michele Coomey's floral philosophy.” Chapters • 00:00:00 – Introduction: Jo Robinson & Michele Coomey • 00:05:00 – Michele’s Journey in Floristry • 00:10:00 – Balancing Creativity and Practicality • 00:15:00 – The Power of Seasonal and Local Flowers • 00:20:00 – Navigating International Floral Logistics • 00:25:00 – Building Community Through Workshops 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 #abundantblooms #floristry #wedding flowers #creativity #seasonal blooms #local growers #floral community #event styling

    48 min

  7. 10/04/2025

    An Accidental Journey to Flower Farming with The Joy Farmer: Season 2 Episode 4

    In this episode, Jo interviews Sarah Rutherford, a flower farmer from Wanaka, New Zealand who’s business is called The Joy Farmer. Jo and Sarah chat about Sarah’s journey into flower farming, the challenges of growing flowers in Central Otago’s unique climate, and the evolution of her business from being part of a collective to a more experience-based model. Sarah shares insights on managing her flower farm, the importance of community support, and her future plans for workshops and engaging with customers. Takeaways Sarah started her flower farm during the first COVID lockdown in 2020. The name ‘Joy Farmer’ was initially a fictitious business name. Sarah’s farm is based in Wanaka, Central Otago, New Zealand. She emphasizes the importance of community support in her business. Sarah is transitioning from selling via a collective to a more experience-based model. She plans to offer workshops to engage customers with flower farming and connecting with nature. Managing time and balancing life demands are key challenges for Sarah. Sarah values the freedom her business provides in her life. She highlights the misconceptions about flower farming’s visual appeal. Sarah’s favourite season is spring due to its energy and new growth. Sound bites Joy Farmer was a fictitious name.Started during the COVID lockdown.Community support is crucial.Transitioning to an experience-based model.Workshops to engage customers.Managing time is a key challenge.Freedom is what success looks like.Spring is Sarah’s favourite season.Energy and new growth in spring. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Sarah Rutherford 00:03:00 Starting the Flower Farm 00:09:00 Challenges in Central Otago 00:15:00 Community and Business Evolution 00:21:00 Future Plans and Workshops 00:27:00 Reflections and Insights 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 #Central Otago, #Sarah Rutherford # Joy Farmer #local community support #workshops, # climate challenges #perennial plants #flower growing #flower business #floral collective # flower selection #gardening, #New Zealand flowers.

    32 min
  8. Mental Health Matters - The Farmstrong Approach: Season 2 Episode 3

    09/19/2025

    Mental Health Matters - The Farmstrong Approach: Season 2 Episode 3

    In this episode, Jo Robinson hosts Amber Carpenter andGerard Vaughan to discuss the Farmstrong program, focusing on the Five Steps to Well-being. They explore how these steps can enhance mental and physical health for farmers, sharing personal stories and practical insights. They discuss the importance of self-care, community support, and practical strategies for managing stress and maintaining focus in the demanding world of farming. Amber shares her personal journey from the fashion industryto dairy farming, highlighting the challenges and rewards of her transition. Gerard designed and set up Farmstrong with the help of FMG, the Mental Health Foundation and Movember in 2015 to encourage farmers to be proactive about their wellbeing. The conversation in this episode emphasizes the need forfarmers to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing to ensure both personal and business success. https://farmstrong.co.nz Takeaways Farmstrong promotes mental wellbeing for farmers andgrowers. Self-care is essential for effective farming. Community support plays a crucial role in mental health. Listening skills are vital for effective communication. Farmers are their own biggest asset and must prioritizetheir health – both mental and physical. Control the controllable aspects of farming life. Building small, regular habits can enhance wellbeing. It's okay to not have everything figured out. Taking breaks can lead to increased productivity. Engaging with the community fosters connection and support. Connect with OurSponsors: (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 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   Chapters 00:00  FarmStrong 01:27 Introduction to Farmstrong and its purpose 05:51 Amber's Journey from Fashion to Farming 09:02 The Importance of Mental Health in Farming 14:05 Recognizing Personal Wellbeing as a Business Asset 19:09 Strategies for Maintaining Focus and Balance 21:45 Navigating Life's Challenges Together 24:12 Balancing Work and Family Life 27:35 The Importance of Rest and Recovery 29:09 Investing in Family Time 32:04 Controlling the Controllables 33:30 Embracing Humanity in Farming Life   Keywords #Flower farming in NZ #Flower farming #Farmstrong #Live Well Farm Well #Mental health #Wellbeing #Stress management #Support systems #Resilience #Horticulture Floriculture #nzflowergrowers #nzflorists #sustainablefloristry #sustainableflowerfarming   Mental Health Matters: The FarmstrongApproach

    37 min
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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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