About this episode
Text Agony Aunt Roz with your Cutflower Questions. In this soulful and inspiring episode, Roz is joined by renowned potter, gardener, and author Frances Palmer. Frances takes us on a journey from her New Jersey childhood to the peaceful, flower-filled studio she now calls home in Connecticut. She shares the origins of her creative practice, her connection to the earth through ceramics and gardening, and the personal stories behind her beloved books, Life in the Studio and Life with Flowers. This conversation blooms with wisdom on the interplay between floral design and pottery, the beauty of seasonal routines, and the importance of daily creative practice. Frances reflects on the lessons found in both soil and clay—from the joy of experimentation to the humility of failure. They also explore how photography plays a role in capturing her work, how she manages the logistics of a global pottery business, and why sustainability and tradition matter more than ever. Whether you’re a creative, a gardener, or simply someone who loves beauty, this episode offers a gentle reminder that meaning often comes from the rhythm of the everyday. Key Takeaways: Frances Palmer is a celebrated potter and passionate gardener. Her books merge memoir, art, and practical advice on creative living. Floral design and ceramic work are deeply intertwined in her process. Seasonality shapes both her artistic and gardening practices. Shipping handmade pottery internationally comes with challenges. Daily routines and early mornings are vital to her creative rhythm. Gardening teaches patience, experimentation, and resilience. Photography helps her convey feeling and story in her work. Traditional techniques and sustainability are core values in her art. Nature, legacy, and beauty are at the heart of her creative life. You can find out more about Frances here You can pre-order her new book Life with Flowers here Make the most of your garden by visiting bramblecrest.com and use the code FIELDGATE at checkout. See website for full details. 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