Advertise on podcast: The Flower Podcast

This week we’re exploring another specialty crop that has its unusual roots here in North America where it’s a botanical native. But first, our guests are Steve and Margo Galic from Stanwood, Washington. Their business is Fox Leaf Farm and they specialize in growing and breeding Sarracenia also known as pitcher plants. After seeing these cut stems in person last summer, I knew then I wanted to ask them to guests someday. We’re always looking for new flowers to use in our floral designs and especially those that can be grown here in the United States. It’s great to learn about how these plants are grown and all of the breeding efforts that Steve has been working on. I look forward to seeing all of the amazing varieties he has to release in the future. On this episode we discuss the differences in the main varieties, care and culture of taking care of sarracenias, starting them from seed, and what we can expect from them as cut flowers. This is a major step in sustainability and responsibly growing this plant for cut production. Learn more about Fox Leaf Farm and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

In this week’s episode we are diving into the world of retail floristry with Abby Chick. Although mainly speaking about the florists side of flowers, I encourage you to listen because so many of the points we cover apply to all businesses. Starting from her early days at a traditional flower shop to becoming the successful owner of Blakemore’s Flowers in 2012, Abby Chick is more than a florist. She is passionate about continued education and was honored to be named a 2023 Mayesh Design Star and a proud collaborator with Holly Chapple Flowers and Flower Clique to bring educational resources to the floral market. So, whether you're here looking for tips on connecting with clients, curious about the latest trends in floral design, or seeking motivation to take your business to the next level, you're in the right place. Let's get started and learn together from Abby's experiences, drawing valuable lessons that apply across the board in the world of flower business today on The Flower Podcast. Learn more about Abby Chick and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

I am excited for this week's episode of The Flower Podcast, where I chat with the Alla Olkhovska of Linden Grove Gardens from Kharkiv, Ukraine. When Erin Benzakein of Floret shared Alla’s story with me, and I visited her website, I discovered Alla's incredible garden of flowers especially her amazing work with clematis. Alla’s not just a gardener; she's a treasure chest filled with knowledge. Her digital book and seed collection open a window to the vast and varied world of Clematis, (and other flowers) revealing species and varieties that I promise will have you at hello.  Let’s embark on this exciting journey to uncover the secrets of Clematis and more with Alla Olkhovska.  Learn more about Alla Olkhovska and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com  Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more!  Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Erin Benzakein of Floret, one of the country’s most influential farmer/florist and trailblazing a remarkable path to growing cut flowers. From prestigious awards, including the Martha Stewart American Made award, to her New York Time’s bestselling books and an Emmy-nominated documentary series called "Growing Floret," Erin's contributions to the world of flowers are nothing short of inspiring. Erin's passion for cultivating beauty has led her to embark on a groundbreaking project, "Floret Originals." In this episode, Erin is sharing about the highly anticipated seed release of her first collection of farm-bred flower seeds.  Unlike most commercial flower varieties, Floret Originals champion fragrance and are more adaptable for local growing. Join us as we uncover the challenges and triumphs of Erin's seven-year journey in mastering the art of seed saving and breeding. The Floret Originals project promises to revolutionize the floral industry by putting power back in the hands of growers and gardeners of all sizes. Tune in to this episode and be inspired by Erin's dedication to creating a sustainable and vibrant future for seasonal flowers and supporting local flower farmers and the entire floral community. Learn more about Erin, Floret, and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Erin's First Interview Ep 68 2020 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Plus follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

Mountain Flower Farm is synonymous with stunning blooming branches and beautiful peonies. Our guest this week is Walt Krukowski and his flower farm is located in Warren Vermont. Walt and his team grow more than flowers, he also grows roots for peonies which is where everything begins. Today we’re talking about what to look for when selecting peony varieties to grow, we touch on growing lilacs and clematis, and of course no conversation could be complete without talking about soil. Learn more about Walt, Mountain Flower Farm and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Plus follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

Today, we're starting the year off with a burst of color and creativity, as we're joined by none other than Simon Lycett. Simon's journey with flowers began in his youth which continues to bloom today with beautiful floral creations. A familiar face on TV and radio, Simon has graced the airwaves with his floral expertise and charming persona. He's the author of the captivating book, 'The Flower Market Year', where he shares a year's worth of floral insights and inspirations from the New Covent Garden Market. As if that weren't enough, Simon also lights up the screen as on of the hosts and judges of HBO's hit show, 'Full Bloom', where his expertise helps guide and inspire aspiring floral artists. In addition, he’s designed for movies including, ' Where Angels Fear to Trend' and 'Four Weddings and a Funeral'. Behind the scenes, Simon is the creative force behind Simon J Lycett Ltd, a business synonymous with floral fabulousness. His designs aren't just arrangements; they're artworks, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with petals and leaves. From royal weddings to dazzling events, Simon's work is nothing short of breathtaking. Today, he's here with us to share his story, his passion, and about his new course with the BBC Maestro called Decorating with Flowers. So, get ready to be inspired, as we dive into the blooming world of Simon Lycett, right here on The Flower Podcast!” Learn more about Simon Lycett and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com  Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast Farmer Bailey  Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor

Hello everyone! This is a special episode of The Flower Podcast. Often during this time of year we replay past episodes of our podcast, but this year I would like to share something from our family’s archives. My Dad for many years has collected a wide range of old time radio shows. His collection is made up of over 30,000 different shows and of course there are several Christmas specials. Since Christmas is one week away, we thought it would be fun to share this condensed version of Charles Dickens Classic, “A Christmas Carol,” The book was originally published back in 1843 and has been a holiday classic for many years. This radio show was aired on Christmas Day back in 1949 starring Lionel Barrymore. We’ve included some of the original commercials thrown in for fun. This week isn’t about flowers, but the holiday’s, family, and friends. We’ll be taking a break for a several weeks as we prepare for our new season in 2024. Until then I hope you enjoy this special episode. Everyone at The Flower Podcast wants you to have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Today, I’m calling this a holiday edition as we talk about one of my favorites…. Foliage and this time of year I especially love Christmas greens. So I am excited to welcome an expert in the world of floral greenery, F.J. Trzuskowski, Vice President of Sales at Continental Floral Greens. F.J.'s journey in the floral industry, from his early days in Holland to his current role at Continental Floral Greens, positions him perfectly to offer invaluable insights into these seasonal favorites. With a career that has spanned several notable companies and a rich educational background in Botany and Landscape Architecture, F.J. brings a unique blend of practical experience and scientific knowledge to the table. Today we are touching on foliage, but really focusing on the best practices for choosing, preparing, and maintaining Christmas greens to ensure they remain a vibrant and fresh part of your holiday decorations. Plus we having fun chatting about several other greens that CFG supplies for a large portion of florists everywhere like leather leaf and salal. So, this week we truly are on a floral journey of decking the halls and it starts now on The Flower Podcast. Learn more about FJ, Continental Floral Greens, and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Chrysal Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor The Gardeners Workshop

Lennie Larkin, the founder of B-Side Farm, took her passion for flowers from a background in adult education to establishing an educational farm. Lennie's experience extends from managing educational farming programs to contributing as the West Coast Director for the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers and teaching at Santa Rosa Junior College. This week we’re going to learn about Lennie’s research that’s led to her new book called Flower Farming for Profit: The Complete Guide to Growing a Successful Cut Flower Business. In addition to her business curriculum for flower farmers, she also provides coaching, business advice and continues her grant funded research to help more flower farmers become more profitable. In this episode, we discus how she started her flower farming business where she had six-figures in sales from her farm stand. She also discusses the importance of growing profitable flower crops and creating more processes and efficiencies to help everyone at the farm level with production. Lennie also shares about her research focusing on helping farmers become more profitable and her new book that’s available for preorder now. Lennie’s link for the Freebie! Order Flower Farming for Profit pre-order on Amazon. Learn more about Lennie Larkin and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor The Gardeners Workshop Chrysal

Today, I'm particularly excited because we're joined by someone I've had the pleasure of spending some time with during a trip to California – the incredibly talented Cathy Hillen-Rulloda. A true legend in the floral industry, Cathy’s dazzling career spans over 40 years. Not only is she a phenomenal designer whose work captivated audiences at the 1984 Olympics, but she's also a trailblazer in floral artistry, winning top honors in major competitions and inspiring audiences at over 300 industry events worldwide. Her stunning creations have not only graced top magazines but also earned her unique accolades, such as having a new Anthurium named "Cathy Rulloda" in 2022 in her honor. Beyond her artistic achievements, Cathy is a significant influencer and leader within the floral community. Her work and guidance have shaped and inspired countless individuals within the industry. It was great to take some time and chat about how she involved in a large florist chain of stores involved in the Olympics, dealing with floral allergies, creating a cohesive story for your customers, women influencing design stages, setting yourself apart from the competition, and the importance of truly connecting with your customers. Learn more about Cathy Hillen-Rulloda and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Chrysal Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor The Gardeners Workshop

I am thrilled to have a familiar face rejoin us – Steve from Sunflower Steve Seed Co. Many of you might remember Steve's inspiring story from his previous visit on The Flower Podcast. It all began in 2007 with a rogue, multi-colored, double-flowering sunflower in his cut flower field. Since their early days in 2000, Steve is at the forefront of creating unique and captivating sunflowers for cut flowers.  The journey from those 12 seeds planted in 2008 has led to an astonishing range of beautiful sunflowers that continue to captivate and inspire. Today, we are catching up with Steve and hearing more about his latest developments and his dedication to cultivating distinct sunflower varieties. Steve reminds us all of the impact one can have by following a passion with heart and creativity. So this week on The Flower Podcast we’re getting an update from the world of Sunflowers Steve.  Learn more about Sunflower Steve and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, IG Lives, and video extras.  Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Chrysal Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor The Gardeners Workshop

After spending this week with the flower growing community of the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers, also know as ASCFG, I’ve come away more inspired and encouraged to see more growers and especially so many first time attendees to this very full conference. I’m Scott Shepherd and this is The Flower Podcast, where I love to chat with florists, floral designers, and flower farmers all over the world. Today I’d like to stress the importance of connection, connection between grower and designer or floral entrepreneurs. The ASCFG conference was very special this year as they celebrated their 35th anniversary, while also celebrating Judy Laushman which has been a part of the ASCFG since the very beginning and this year she’s retiring. When you see an organization like this and the tremendous impact it’s had not only on the flower farmers and growers, but on the entire floriculture community all across North America and continues to reach around the world. What started with Dr. Alan Armitage and Judy Laushman at the University of Georgia 35 years ago has sent ripples out and impacted lives of growers and florists for years to come. Learn more about the ASCFG and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, Amazon Music, Gaana, and many more! Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for access to all of our Zoom chats, tutorials, Live’s, and video extras. Sponsors of The Flower Podcast ASCFG Farmer Bailey Chrysal Rooted Farmers Real Flower Business Accent Decor The Gardeners Workshop