Farming Flowers

Lisa Shaddox, founder of the Central Oregon Flower Collective

Farming Flowers is a podcast for flower farmers, florists, and anyone curious about where cut flowers actually come from. Host Lisa Shaddox - a working flower farmer herself - talks with growers, florists, and collective founders about the real, unglamorous work of getting flowers from field to vase: the logistics, the relationships, the money, and the problems nobody talks about until they're standing in a field at 6am trying to solve them. New episodes explore the people and ideas shaping local flower farming, one honest conversation at a time.

  1. 06/08/2025

    What it's Really Like to Run a Lavender Farm

    In this episode of the Farming Flowers podcast, Lisa Shaddox interviews Jill Ogorsolka, a lavender farmer who transitioned from a vineyard to cultivating lavender. Jill shares her unexpected journey into lavender farming, the challenges of maintaining a farm in Oregon's short growing season, and the innovative products they have developed, including unique lava stone diffusers. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of essential oil production, the importance of understanding different lavender cultivars, and the community engagement through U-Cut lavender experiences. In this conversation, Lisa and Jill discuss the intricacies of lavender farming, including the harvesting process, pest management, and the lifespan of lavender plants. They also explore Jill's new venture into winter tulips, the challenges faced in growing them, and the unexpected uses of lavender, such as extending the life of kitchen sponges. The discussion concludes with a light-hearted question about the personality of lavender, highlighting its dependable and versatile nature. In this conversation, Jill and Lisa explore the multifaceted uses of lavender, from daily rituals to its applications in skincare and wellness. They discuss the importance of understanding the differences between essential oils and hydrosols, emphasizing the user-friendly nature of hydrosols. Jill shares her journey as a lavender farmer, offering valuable advice for those interested in entering the field, including considerations for sustainable farming practices and the importance of choosing the right plants for specific growing conditions. The discussion highlights the beauty and versatility of lavender, as well as the community aspect of farming. Ultraviolet Lavender Farm Tumalo Lavender Windy Ridge Lavender

    What it's Really Like to Run a Lavender Farm

About

Farming Flowers is a podcast for flower farmers, florists, and anyone curious about where cut flowers actually come from. Host Lisa Shaddox - a working flower farmer herself - talks with growers, florists, and collective founders about the real, unglamorous work of getting flowers from field to vase: the logistics, the relationships, the money, and the problems nobody talks about until they're standing in a field at 6am trying to solve them. New episodes explore the people and ideas shaping local flower farming, one honest conversation at a time.