In this episode, Melissa Hessney Masters, of Tangleboom Flower Farm, takes us on a heartfelt journey that began with a simple yet profound desire to find local flowers for her wedding back in 2010. This quest sparked a passion that led her to establish Tanglebloom in 2013. As we delve into her story, you'll hear about the myriad challenges she faced in the world of flower farming and how she gracefully navigated them. Melissa also shares her innovative shift towards Agritourism, a move that...

Have you ever wondered about the art of drying flowers and creating stunning arrangements that last a lifetime? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we have the pleasure of hearing from Hannah Muller, a cut flower farmer located in the beautiful Capay Valley of Northern California. Hannah shares her journey from growing up on Full Belly Farm to becoming a wedding farmer-florist to shifting her focus to dried flowers. We explore the process of drying flowers, the best conditions...

Are you curious about what it takes to be a sustainable farmer-florist? In episode 23, we  delve into the vibrant world of flower farming with Heather Staten from Heather's Flower Farm in Hood River, Oregon. Heather's journey from an avid gardener to flourishing flower farmer is a testament to her love for the earth and the beauty of cultivation. In this episode, Heather shares her passion for growing over 250 varieties of flowers and foliage on her family's 18-acre property in Hood River,...

Have you ever wondered what happens when a passion for music and farming intertwine to create a symphony of nature and artistry? In Episode 22 of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we journey down South to Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast of Australia to chat with the remarkable Bec McConnell of Serenade Farm. Bec shares with us the beautiful story of how her love for gardening and flowers was nurtured from childhood memories of her Nan and Pop's garden, to her backpacking adventures in...

Are you ready to be inspired by a heartfelt story of healing, motherhood, and the beauty of dahlias? Join us on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast this week as we welcome Kamille, a flower farmer and mother, who shares her journey of finding solace in flower farming after experiencing grief and loss. Discover the therapeutic power of flowers and the importance of prioritizing family and relationships through Kamille's touching story. Hear about her passion for breeding dahlias and the value of...

In this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast, Steve Kaufer, also known as Sunflower Steve, shares his journey from planting a prairie garden to becoming a renowned sunflower seed breeder. Starting with planting native prairie flowers in Wisconsin, Steve's passion for flowers has led him to cultivate unique sunflower varieties over the last 20 plus years. Through trial and error, Steve established relationships with large retailers and wholesalers, eventually focusing on high-volume...

Welcome to a special BONUS episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Today, we're diving into the world of dahlias, my favorite flower, and I'm here to guide you through everything you need to know to have a successful start to dahlia growing season. In Today's Bonus Episode, We'll Cover: * What you need to get started growing dahlias * How to plant your dahlias * How to set your dahlias up for success after planting * Common Dahlia Growing Challenges * Invitation to join The Dahlia...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet, we explore the profound impact of gardens on our lives. This episode features published author Christie Purifoy and revolves around how gardens grow roots, connection, wholeness, and hope. Christie shares her journey from a hesitant gardener to a passionate cut flower gardener, emphasizing the transformative power of gardening. Through heartfelt stories and expert advice, Christie eloquently captures the essence of gardening and its ability to foster...

Have you been wanting to add fragrant flowers to your garden? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia welcomes garden guru Stefani Bittner to share her expertise on creating beautiful and productive gardens that nourish both body and soul. Stefani, the visionary owner of Homestead Design Collective, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainable gardening practices. Throughout the episode, Stefani discusses the importance of understanding your...

In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Lori Bochner from Bochner Farms, a picturesque flower farm nestled in rural central Iowa countryside. Lori's journey into the world of flower farming was an unexpected adventure, born out of a love for cultivating beauty in her suburban surroundings. From a home adorned with blooming flowers to a sprawling farm bursting with thousands of blooms, Lori's transformation into a flower farmer is a true testament to the magic of following...

Have you ever wanted to start an urban or micro flower farm? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Dee Hall of Mermaid City Flowers as she shares her journey as a sustainable, urban flower farmer in Norfolk, Virginia. Dee shares the joys and challenges of growing native perennials, building a micro-flower farm on multiple urban plots, and fostering a sense of community among flower farmers. Discover the importance of supporting local growers, the beauty of...

Do you want to sell your flowers to florists but don't know where to start? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, hear from local flower farmer, Heather Cain of Petal Pink Flowers about her experience selling specialty cut flowers to local florists. Heather shares her journey of building relationships with florists and the importance of communication in the flower farming business. She also gives valuable insights into the process of growing and selling specific flowers, such as...

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we have the pleasure of hearing from Stacy Ling, a master gardener and published author. Stacy is also a home and garden blogger who shares her passion for gardening and helps beginners find their inner green thumb. Stacy's gardening journey began over 25 years ago when she was inspired by her neighbor's beautiful cottage garden. Despite having no prior gardening experience, Stacy started small with houseplants and gradually expanded her...

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, we are joined by Misha Gillingham of Farmluxe. Misha shares her journey to becoming a flower farmer and the profound impact of blooms on ones overall well-being. Misha discusses her first introduction to gardening when she bought a farm in Washington seven years ago. She was inspired by the existing garden on the property and the joy of harvesting fresh food with her family. This experience sparked her passion for gardening and led her to...

Are you dreaming of starting your own small-scale flower farm? In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia interviews Erin Simmons, a successful flower farmer and mom of four. Erin shares her journey from being a lobbyist to trading in her high heels for muck boots and pursuing her passion for flower farming on Vashon Island. Erin provides valuable insights and advice for aspiring flower farmers, including tips on growing dahlias, daffodils, and zinnias, finding...

Get ready to be inspired by this episode of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast to create your own cottage-style flower garden! In today's episode, host Jennifer Gulizia chats with Kim Robinson from Shiplap and Shells, a cut-flower gardener and blogger. Kim shares her journey of transforming her backyard into a stunning cottage-style garden overlooking the Puget Sound. From building raised garden beds to adding a beautiful greenhouse, Kim's garden has been featured in numerous magazines. She offers...

Learn How To Grow Sweet Peas with Flower Farmer Marryn Mathis If you're listening, get ready to be inspired by the world of sweet peas in this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Host Jennifer Gulizia welcomes her friend Marryn Mathis from The Farmhouse Flower Farm, a renowned flower farmer in Stanwood, Washington. Marryn is known for her incredible dahlia field and her expertise in growing sweet peas. In this episode, Jennifer and Marryn dive deep into all things sweet peas. They...

In this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, host Jennifer Gulizia is joined by Paul Matalucci of Apple Core Farm and Cut Flowers. Paul shares his journey from corporate communications to flower farming and offers valuable insights for both backyard gardeners and aspiring flower farmers. Learn about the challenges and joys of flower farming, the importance of choosing the right flowers for your climate, and the benefits of buying locally grown flowers. Paul also talks about his passion...