Finding Joy Through Nature, Community and Flowers S3 E9

How Rachel Inger Built a Thriving Small Flower FarmJoin us as we explore Rachel Inger’s journey in flower farming, highlighting her adaptable approach to growing flowers in Hamilton's climate, and the importance of community and planning in flower farming success.Listen to Rachel’s perspective on the joy of flower farming—building relationships, being outdoors, and creating a lifestyle that balances work and family.• Connect with our Sponsors - Fresh Cut Flower Wholesalers• ⁠Follow them on Instagram @freshcutflowerwholesalers⁠• 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/flowerfarmersinnz⁠Key Takeaways• - Understand your unique growing conditions and adapt techniques accordingly.• - Soil management is essential; consider your soil type and how it affects your crops.• - Leverage local markets and social media to sell your flowers effectively.• - Customize your approach based on experiences rather than just external advice.Rachel Inger’s insights into flower farming provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in the floral industry. By understanding your environment, managing your soil, and effectively reaching your market, you can thrive in this beautiful yet challenging field.• Key words:• #flowerfarminginNZ• #nzflowergrowers• #nzflorists• #sustainablefloristry• #sustainableflowerfarmingTimestamps:Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Rachel and her flower farm02:09 - Rachel’s farm size, layout, and soil conditions02:22 - Why Rachel chooses mound beds over formal raised beds03:30 - Pathways and weed management strategies04:10 - Soil health, amendments, and the importance of soil testing05:37 - Growing conditions in Hamilton versus Central Otago06:40 - Planting schedule for tulips and hardy annuals07:50 - Wind and frost protection methods09:37 - Strategies for selling wholesale plus to florists and retail customers10:46 - Seasonal crop choices for summer (zinnias, cosmos, amaranth)12:03 - The popularity of certain flower colours and varieties13:08 - Growing and selling tulips, including subscription models14:37 - Post-harvest handling and frost protection for tulips15:45 - How Rachel manages delivery logistics for wholesale flowers16:54 - The impact of local grower groups and collaboration21:53 - Use of greenery in bouquets and future crop plans22:43 - Selling seed kits as gift products and diversification23:43 - Insights into wholesale selling process and building relationships29:19 - Working out crop costs and recording yields for profitability32:24 - Group efforts for logistics and collective shipping33:21 - Building a supportive grower community in Hamilton36:48 - Transitioning into seed sales and diversifying income streams39:13 - Favourite tools, including battery-powered sprayers42:58 - Advice for new flower growers: research, focus, and enjoyment45:14 - Reflecting on what gives Rachel joy in flower farming: connection with nature and peopleResources & Links:• @freshcutflowerwholesalers Local flower wholesaler• Floret's Cut Flower Garden Book https://gardenonthehill.co.nz/products/cut-flower-garden• https://www.ryobitools.com/search?q=battery%20sprayers Ryobi Battery-Powered Sprayer• https://www.harvestbloomflowers.co.nz/seedkits Seed Kits & Gift Pack IdeasConnect with Rachel Inger:• https://www.instagram.com/harvestbloomflowers/ This episode underscores how adaptable, community-oriented, and strategic flower farming can be—no matter your climate.Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: TK8ZPB5HGGMOS9MD, B4YGMZVPSREJYW0KSpotify Show Notes: