Reviving British Cut Flowers: Insights from Roisin of Verde Flower Co.

Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions. Hello everyone, and welcome to another insightful episode of The Cutflower Podcast! I’m Roz Chandler, and today, I’m thrilled to have Roisin from Verde Flower Co. joining us. Roisin’s journey from politics and conservation to flower farming is truly fascinating, and I can’t wait for you all to hear her story and insights. Summary: In this episode, Roisin shares her incredible transition from working in politics and conservation to diving into the world of flower farming. She took over Verde Flower Co. from her mother during the COVID-19 pandemic and has since developed a thriving urban flower farm under the iconic Tyne Bridge in Newcastle upon Tyne. Roisin also discusses her involvement in the Nuffield Farming Scholarship and her research into the future of the British cut flower industry amidst climate change challenges. Key Takeaways: Diverse Background: Roisin’s journey from studying politics and conservation to flower farming highlights the diverse paths one can take to enter the floral industry. Urban Flower Farming: Setting up an urban flower farm can bring the beauty of local flowers to city dwellers, fostering community engagement and education. Climate Change Adaptation: Roisin’s Nuffield Farming Scholarship research focuses on how the British cut flower industry can adapt to a warming world and more erratic weather patterns. Community and Collaboration: Building a supportive community of flower farmers and collaborating on shared resources is crucial for the industry’s resilience and growth. Sustainable Practices: Roisin advocates for nature-friendly flower farming, avoiding harmful pesticides and focusing on sustainable practices. Policy and Advocacy: The importance of having a voice in policy-making to support and promote the British cut flower industry is emphasized, as well as the need for effective campaigning and lobbying. Join us for this engaging conversation as Roisin shares her experiences, challenges, and vision for the future of British flower farming. Her dedication to sustainability and community collaboration is truly inspiring, and there’s much to learn from her journey. Thank you for tuning in! If Roisin’s story resonated with you or if you have any questions, feel free to reach out and connect with us through the links below. Until next time, keep growing and blooming! Connect with Roisin: Website: https://verdeflowerco.org/about Instagram: http://instagram.com/verdeflowerco Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@verdeflowerco First Tunnels, leaders in domestic and commercial product tunnels. https://fieldgateflowers.kartra.com/page/newsletters 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