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Hi, I’m Roz Chandler, and welcome to another episode of the Cut Flower Podcast, Agony Aunt edition! Today, I’m excited to dive into your questions about growing cut flowers. Whether you’re just starting or have been at it for years, this episode is packed with tips and advice to help you flourish. From soil conditions to choosing the best flowers, we’re covering it all. Let’s get started!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Roz tackles listener questions, offering expert advice to help improve your cut flower gardening. The first question comes from Kay, who wonders if soil type affects the color of dahlias. Roz explains how environmental factors, like soil and sunlight, can impact flower colors, and highlights how these can vary across different locations.

Next, Beth asks how to clear an overgrown allotment. Roz walks through the process of preparing your plot using the no-dig method and landscape fabric to manage weeds. She also shares tips on whether to plant in raised beds or directly into the soil.

For those starting their flower journey, Roz suggests beginner-friendly flowers such as zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers, perfect for easy maintenance and great yields. She also covers essential techniques like cutting flowers in the morning, proper conditioning for extended vase life, and pinching or disbudding flowers for longer stems.

Other questions include how to manage pests organically and choosing flowers that thrive in shady areas. Roz wraps up by offering tips on creating a seasonal planting schedule to maximize your garden's potential all year round.

Key Takeaways:

1. Environmental Impact on Flower Color: Soil, sunlight, and climate can influence the color and vibrancy of your flowers.
2. Allotment Preparation: Use no-dig gardening methods and landscape fabric to control weeds and prepare your garden efficiently.
3. Great Starter Flowers: Zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers are excellent choices for beginners who want reliable, easy-to-grow cut flowers.
4. Extend Vase Life: Harvest flowers early and properly condition stems for longer-lasting blooms in vases.
5. Pinching for Better Stems: Removing side buds can help flowers produce longer stems for cutting.

Closing Message and Call to Action (CTA):
Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! I hope you found the ans

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• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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In this episode, Roz Chandler covers everything you need to know about maintaining your cutting patch during November. From planting bulbs to soil preparation, there are many tasks to keep your garden active throughout the colder months.

Roz shares practical advice on when to plant tulips and crocuses, how to divide and cut back perennials, and the importance of protecting your soil with mulch or compost. She highlights how to make leaf mould, protect plants that are borderline hardy like agapanthus, and why autumn is the perfect time to plant bare-root roses.

Additionally, Roz discusses ways to ensure proper soil health for next year’s growing season and the importance of testing manure before use. She also gives detailed tips on lifting and propagating plants like dahlias and roses and encourages planning for the spring by looking at seed catalogues.

Throughout the episode, Roz emphasizes the importance of continuous care, even through winter, ensuring that your garden is ready to burst into life next spring.

Key Takeaways

1. Plant Tulips in November: November is the ideal time to plant tulips because cooler soil temperatures help prevent diseases like tulip fire.
2. Soil Preparation is Key: Turn your soil while it still retains some heat and protect it with mulch to ensure it’s ready for spring planting.
3. Leaf Mould and Mulching: Gather leaves to create leaf mould and mulch your plants for protection through winter.
4. Bare-root Roses and Plant Protection: November is the best time to plant bare-root roses, and make sure to protect borderline hardy plants like agapanthus.
5. Propagate and Plan for Next Year: Divide overgrown plants, propagate cuttings, and start planning your garden for next year by reviewing seed catalogues and making a list of supplies.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! If you’re ready to take your gardening skills to the next level, make sure to check out our website for more tips and resources. Don’t forget to join our vibrant community on Facebook—The Cut Flower Collective, where over 7,000 growers share tips and experiences.

For more guidance, visit https://FieldgateFlowers.co.uk and check out our masterclasses, including our Rose Masterclass for in-depth knowledge on planting, pruning, and caring for your roses. Stay tuned for more episodes, and happy gardening!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hi, I’m Roz, and welcome to The Cut Flower Podcast! In today's episode, I’ll be answering your most burning questions about seasonal flower gardening, particularly focusing on autumn tasks. From bulb planting to how to care for your dahlias as winter approaches, we’re covering it all. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, I’ve got practical advice to help you get the most out of your flower patch.

This episode dives into some of the most common questions I receive from my membership groups and courses, including how to handle bulbs like Narcissi and Tulips during autumn. I break down why October is ideal for planting Narcissi, but why it’s crucial to wait until November or December to plant Tulips to avoid diseases like tulip fire. We also talk about planting hardy annuals like Larkspur and Cornflowers to overwinter, offering practical tips on how to ensure they thrive when spring comes.

We also explore the hot topic of dahlia care. Should you lift or leave them in the ground? I explain the factors that go into making that decision, including your climate and soil type. You’ll learn about mulching techniques to protect dahlias and other tender plants from the frost, as well as the best ways to store tubers if you decide to lift them.

Finally, I answer your questions about roses, manure, and the benefits of sowing green manures like Phacelia. Whether you’re wondering if it’s too late to plant perennials or how to best prepare your garden for winter, this episode is packed with useful advice for gardeners of all experience levels.

Key Takeaways:

1. Patience is key when planting Tulips: Wait until November or even December to avoid fungal diseases.
2. Overwinter hardy annuals: By planting them now, you’ll have stronger plants ready to bloom in the spring.
3. Dahlia care: Depending on your climate, you may leave them in the ground or lift them. Either way, mulching is crucial for frost protection.
4. Mulching your flower beds: Applying organic matter like compost in October helps suppress weeds and improves soil structure for next year’s blooms.
5. Leave your garden a little wild: Resist the urge to "tidy up" your patch entirely; seed heads and hollow stems benefit wildlife over winter.

Thank you for joining me on this episode of The Cut Flower Podcast! Don’t forget, if you have any questions, I’m always here

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Welcome back to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m Roz Chandler, your friendly Agony Aunt of the cut flower world. In today’s episode, we dive into some of the most common questions about growing ranunculus and spring bulbs. Whether you're battling yellowing leaves, wondering about the perfect time to plant ranunculus, or trying to prevent squirrels from digging up your precious bulbs, I’ve got you covered.

This episode is part of my Dear Roz series, where I answer your gardening dilemmas with practical, easy-to-follow advice. Feel free to send your own questions to me at roz@fieldgateflowers.co.uk with the subject line Ask Roz, and I’ll happily answer them in future episodes.

Key Takeaways:

• When to Plant Ranunculus: The best time for planting ranunculus corms is autumn (October-November), but in colder climates, February-March is ideal.
• Tips for Getting More Ranunculus Blooms: Give your ranunculus plenty of sunlight, regular feeding with a balanced fertiliser, and deadhead spent blooms for continuous flowers.
• Managing Yellowing Leaves: Overwatering or a lack of nitrogen could be the culprit; ensure your plants have well-drained soil and consider adding a balanced fertiliser.
• Growing Ranunculus in Containers: Yes, you can! Just ensure good drainage, proper spacing, and sunlight.
• Protecting Bulbs from Squirrels: Use chicken wire, sprinkle cayenne pepper, or plant daffodils around more vulnerable bulbs to keep squirrels at bay.

Make sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more tips and insights on creating a thriving flower garden. And don’t forget to send in your questions for the next episode of Ask Roz!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hello and welcome back to The Cut Flower Podcast! In this special episode, I’m stepping into the shoes of an agony aunt, inspired by the wonderful Dolly Alderton. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be answering all your burning questions about growing flowers—whether for profit or pure pleasure. In today's episode, we kick off with the beloved dahlia and some common concerns you've sent in, including why they’re not blooming, how to prevent them from flopping, and whether it’s safe to leave them in the ground over winter.

I also share my advice on the best seeds to sow now for early spring blooms, how to sow undercover, and tips on transplanting seedlings. It’s all about helping you grow the most beautiful, vibrant flowers, whatever your situation.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we explore some of the most frequent questions about flower growing:

• Dahlias: Why they may not be blooming, how to keep them upright, and whether you should dig up tubers before winter.
• Seed Sowing: Which hardy annuals you can start undercover now, and the best practices for ensuring healthy growth.
• Transplanting: When and how to transplant your seedlings to avoid shock.

If you're looking for practical advice to keep your flowers thriving, this episode is packed with helpful tips.

Key Takeaways:

1. Sunlight is essential for dahlias: They need a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to bloom well, so check their light exposure.
2. Staking dahlias early helps: To prevent flopping, stake larger varieties as soon as you plant them.
3. Seed sowing tips: Use well-draining soil and keep your seeds undercover until the frost risk passes.
4. Transplant carefully: Wait until seedlings have two sets of leaves before transplanting, and harden them off gradually.

I’d love to hear from you, so if you have any questions for future episodes, please drop me an email at roz@fieldgateflowers.co.uk with the subject line "Ask Roz." I’ll be picking questions from the Best Bunch membership, Growth Club, and our online courses too!

Thanks for joining me today – I can’t wait to hear your feedback on this new agony aunt style!

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Welcome to another episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m your host, Roz Chandler, and today we’re diving deep into all things garden pests. I’m joined by the brilliant Tessa from Ladybird Plant Care, who’s here to share some amazing tips on how to manage pests organically. From slugs to aphids, we’re covering it all, so if you’ve had any garden woes this year, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Tessa from Ladybird Plant Care walks us through the challenges and solutions for common garden pests, with a particular focus on organic methods. We chat about the importance of tackling pests like slugs and aphids at the right time of year, and why natural biological control is becoming more popular. Tessa also shares why using nematodes in the autumn is key to reducing slug problems in the spring, and we explore the fascinating world of parasitic wasps for aphid control. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep pests at bay without resorting to harmful chemicals, this episode is packed with practical advice to help your garden thrive.

Key Takeaways:

1. Slug Control with Nematodes: Now is the perfect time to apply nematodes to prevent next year’s slug infestation. Tessa explains why autumn treatments are essential.
2. Organic Pest Management: Biological control methods like using parasitic wasps for aphids are natural, effective, and environmentally friendly.
3. Patience is Key: With biological controls, it’s important to be patient and allow nature to take its course. These solutions take time but yield great results.
4. Deep Cleaning for Pest Prevention: Clean your greenhouses and tools thoroughly at the end of the season to remove overwintering pests and prevent future infestations.
5. Think Like a Bug: When preparing your garden for winter, consider where pests might hide, like under pots or in cracks, and take steps to eliminate their cosy spots.

Action Step:
Take a good look at your garden as we head into the colder months. Apply nematodes now to reduce slug populations, and give your greenhouse a deep clean to avoid overwintering pests. If you’ve had pest issues this year, start planning your biological controls for next year!

Here are Tessa’s contact details for any questions or pest identification help:

You can reach her via email at plantcare@ladybirdplantcare.co.uk

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Roz here! I’m thrilled to bring you another insightful episode, and today, we're diving deep into the world of sweet peas with none other than Roger Parsons. Roger shares his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with sweet peas to becoming the custodian of the National Collection. If you’re passionate about sweet peas or just love to learn about the intricate beauty of flowers, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Roger Parsons takes us on a journey through the delicate and fragrant world of sweet peas. From his early memories of buying sweet pea varieties at Woolworths to managing an extensive collection of over 160 Lathyrus species, Roger’s passion is palpable. He discusses the challenges of preserving rare varieties, the nuances of sweet pea cultivation, and offers practical advice for both novice and experienced growers.

Roger also shares valuable insights into the differences between various types of sweet peas and other Lathyrus species, such as the everlasting pea. He provides tips on achieving the best vase life for cut flowers, growing sweet peas in different climates, and the benefits of cordon growing versus natural growth methods.

Key Takeaways

• Journey to National Collection: Roger’s transition from a childhood love of sweet peas to managing a national collection and the importance of preserving rare varieties.
• Sweet Pea Varieties: Understanding the differences between Spencer, Grandiflora, and old-fashioned sweet peas, and how to choose the right type for your needs.
• Growing Tips: The best times to sow sweet peas depending on your location, and how to support and care for your plants for optimal growth.
• Irrigation Insights: How proper watering can extend stem length and improve overall flower quality, and the role of foliar feeding in promoting healthy plants.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Learn how to prevent leggy growth, ensure your plants flower, and avoid over-fertilisation with nitrogen.

Connect with Roger Parsons:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rpsweetpeas
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roger_parsons_sweet_peas/
• Website: https://www.rpsweetpeas.com/

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection

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Hello everyone, it’s Roz Chandler here, and today we have a truly inspiring episode lined up for you. I’m thrilled to welcome the marvellous Kerry Hales, a Transformational Life Coach and author. Together, we delve into some significant topics – from decluttering your mind to transforming your life and business. Kerry shares her wisdom on how to navigate the overwhelming transition from employee to entrepreneur, especially in the challenging world of flower farming.

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Kerry Hales brings her 20 years of experience as a Transformational Life Coach to our conversation, guiding us through the process of intentional living and business transformation. We discuss the realities of running a flower farm and the mental shifts required to succeed. Kerry introduces her book, "Life Lessons From Your Knicker Drawer," and explains how something as simple as organising your underwear can reflect and influence how you manage your life and business.

Key Takeaways:

1. Intentional Living: Transforming your life and business requires clarity about your goals and the reality of what’s involved in achieving them.
2. The Transition to Entrepreneurship: Moving from employee to business owner is a significant shift that requires unlearning old habits and embracing new skills.
3. The Power of Decluttering: Simplifying your physical space, like your knicker drawer, can have a profound impact on your mental clarity and approach to life.
4. Planning and Realism: Flower farming is hard work, and it’s essential to plan your year around its demands, considering what you are prepared to give up or adapt.
5. Leverage Your Strengths: Recognise the skills you already have and don’t be afraid to seek help in areas where you’re less confident.

Thank you so much for tuning in today. Don’t forget to check out Kerry’s book, "Life Lessons From Your Knicker Drawer," for more insights on decluttering your life and business.

Visit Https://audioandco.com for all your audiobook, video and podcast needs.

• https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters
• Flower Farmers Retreat 2024 (21 &22 September): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/businessretreat2024
• 2024 Farm Day at Field Gate Farm (10 August): https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/farmvisit
• A Cut Above Waitlist: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/ACutAboveWaitlist
• The Growth Club: https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/thegrowthclub
• Lots of free resources on our website: https://thecutflowercollective.co.uk/cut-flower-resources/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fieldgateflowers
• Facebook Group 'Cut Flower Farming - Growth and Profit in your business' https://www.facebook.com/groups/449543639411874
• Facebook Group 'The Cut Flower Collection' https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutflowercollection