How Rachel Inger Built a Thriving Small Flower Farm
Join 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.
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Key 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
• #sustainableflowerfarming
Timestamps:
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Rachel and her flower farm
02:09 - Rachel’s farm size, layout, and soil conditions
02:22 - Why Rachel chooses mound beds over formal raised beds
03:30 - Pathways and weed management strategies
04:10 - Soil health, amendments, and the importance of soil testing
05:37 - Growing conditions in Hamilton versus Central Otago
06:40 - Planting schedule for tulips and hardy annuals
07:50 - Wind and frost protection methods
09:37 - Strategies for selling wholesale plus to florists and retail customers
10:46 - Seasonal crop choices for summer (zinnias, cosmos, amaranth)
12:03 - The popularity of certain flower colours and varieties
13:08 - Growing and selling tulips, including subscription models
14:37 - Post-harvest handling and frost protection for tulips
15:45 - How Rachel manages delivery logistics for wholesale flowers
16:54 - The impact of local grower groups and collaboration
21:53 - Use of greenery in bouquets and future crop plans
22:43 - Selling seed kits as gift products and diversification
23:43 - Insights into wholesale selling process and building relationships
29:19 - Working out crop costs and recording yields for profitability
32:24 - Group efforts for logistics and collective shipping
33:21 - Building a supportive grower community in Hamilton
36:48 - Transitioning into seed sales and diversifying income streams
39:13 - Favourite tools, including battery-powered sprayers
42:58 - Advice for new flower growers: research, focus, and enjoyment
45:14 - Reflecting on what gives Rachel joy in flower farming: connection with nature and people
Resources & 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 Ideas
Connect 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, B4YGMZVPSREJYW0K
Spotify Show Notes:
