The Backyard Bouquet Jennifer Gulizia

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.

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Are You Growing Dahlias This Year? Join Us In The Dahlia Patch As A Founding Member: https://thefloweringfarmhouse.mykajabi.com/the-dahlia-patch-founding-member

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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 Backyard

Learn more about Nicole and Cherry Garden:

* Cherry Garden on IG: www.instagram.com/nicoleatcherrygarden [http://www.instagram.com/nicoleatcherrygarden]
* Let's Grow Girls Podcast on IG: www.instagram.com/letsgrowgirlspodcast/ [http://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.

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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

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In This Episode You'll Hear About:

00:02:55 - Introduction of Jess Buttermore and Cedar House Living
00:08:02 - Importance of watching light for photography
00:14:31 - Tips for taking better pictures of flowers in gardens
00:31:41 -"The Love Language of Flowers" book
00:35:07 - Meaning of flowers in "The Love Language of Flowers" book
00:41:24 - Mother's Day arrangements
00:47:37 - Personal favorite flowers and their meanings
00:51:31 - "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/  [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: 00:48:32

Learn more about Brooke Palmer and Jenny Creek Flowers

* Visit Jenny Creek Flowers [https://www.jennycreekflowers.com/]
* Jenny Creek Flowers on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/jennycreekflowers/]
* Jenny Creek Flowers on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/jennycreekflowers]

***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 Farming
00:04:10 - Adjusting to a New Climate
00:06:04 - Land Utilization and Challenges
00:08:04 - Growing Flowers In A Short Growing Season in Zone 2B
00:10:39 - Overwintering Flowers in Zone 2B
00:13:27 - Madeline's Peony Collection
00:14:52 - Importing Plants to Canada
00:16:29 - Protecting Roses Over Winter
00:18:34 - Growing Cool Flowers Like Sweet Peas
00:20:09 - Impact of Drought on the Farm
00:21:13 - Pulse Watering Technique
00:22:48 - Sweet Peas and Pink Flowers
00:28:57 - Breeding Cosmos
00:31:20 - The Story Behind Fresh Flower Farm's Name
00:39:17 - Using High Brix Molasses
00:41:58 - Hosting Events on the Farm
00:43:04 - Integrating Other Passions with Flower Farming

Learn more about Madeline Cooper and Fraiche Flower Farm:

* Visit Fraiche Flower Farm: www.fraicheflowerfarm.com/ [https://www.fraicheflowerfarm.com/]
* Follow Fraiche Flower Farm on Instagram: www.instagram.com/fraicheflowerfarm [https://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 Favorites

Show 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 Roses

Show 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 [https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/guardians-of-the-garden/x/36777328#/]
* PureProtect Rose Spray [https://heirloomroses.com/products/pure-protect-by-heirloom-roses]
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heirloomroses/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heirloomrosesusa
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heirloomroses

SAVE 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 [https://www.instagram.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/] | Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/thefloweringfarmhouse/] | Website [https://thefloweringfarmhouse.com/]