Key topics:Diversifying crops and sustaining staff year-roundProtected cultivation and the benefits of greenhousesExporting Australian flowers to Japan and beyondCollaboration, community, and why sharing knowledge mattersAdapting to climate change and investing in renewable energyMentioned:Wildflowers AustraliaAgriFutures research libraryEast Coast Wildflowers and the growers who inspire him🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.
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49:13
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49:13
Hunter Flower Collective – Building Community in the Hunter Valley
Guests: Elsa from Hunter Forage & Madeline from Mount Vincent Flower FarmIn this episode, Rebecca chats with Elsa and Madeline about how a small group of passionate local growers turned into a thriving community of 30+ members known as the Hunter Flower Collective.We talk about:🌼 How the collective began — and the joy of growing from five friends to 31 members🌸 The challenges and creativity of micro-scale flower farming on residential blocks🌿 How connection, collaboration, and shared learning have become their biggest strengths💧 Dealing with floods, pests, and limited space — and finding resilience through community💐 The importance of supporting local florists and fostering strong grower–florist relationshipsThe Hunter Flower Collective is proof that big things grow from small beginnings — and that when flower farmers come together, they can change the landscape of their region.Connect with the Hunter Flower Collective:Instagram → @hunterflowercollectiveElsa → @hunter_forageMentioned in this episode:The Harvest (Hunter Valley’s local flower hub)Grow Not FlownEarthenry Flower Farm (TAS)
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47:49
Springview Irises – The Beauty of Bearded Blooms
Guest: Caitie O’Grady – Springview Irises, Ebden VICHost: Rebecca NobleNestled in the hills of northeast Victoria overlooking Lake Hume, Springview Irises is home to hundreds of bearded iris varieties grown by Caitie O’Grady and her family.In this episode, Caitie shares her journey from planting flowers in her childhood sandpit to running a thriving iris farm known for its colour, character, and care. We talk about:🌸 The story behind Springview Irises and its stunning lakeside setting🌸 Growing bearded irises for Australia’s climate — from soil to frost🌸 Why irises are far more than just purple, yellow, and white🌸 The joy of open days and connecting with people through flowers🌸 The importance of supporting small, family-run flower farmsFollow Caitie’s journey:🔗 springviewirises.com.au📸 Instagram & Facebook: @spring_view_irises
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49:35
From Garden Dreams to Flower Farming Reality – Belinda’s Story
In this episode of Dish the Dirt, I chat with Belinda from The Flowering Field, based in Burra, New South Wales. Belinda shares:How her passion for gardening during maternity leave blossomed into a flower farmThe challenges and opportunities of farming in a cool, frosty climateWhy dried flowers became a key part of her business modelThe importance of community, mentorship, and investing in the business of farmingHer biggest successes, learning curves, and advice for new growersBelinda’s story is one of bravery, resilience, and building a business with heart. Whether you’re a grower, florist, or flower enthusiast, you’ll take away plenty of inspiration.✨ Connect with The Flowering Field: @the_flowering_field ✨ Follow Dish the Dirt: @_dishthedirt_
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54:49
From Shopping Queen to Flower Farmer – Kathy’s Journey with Plumtree Floral Farm
n this episode of Dish the Dirt, I chat with the inspiring Kathy from Plumtree Floral Farm in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.Kathy’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. After a long career in media and even a stint as Australia’s “shopping queen,” she traded city life for gumboots and flower fields. Since moving to the subtropics, Kathy and her husband have faced drought, floods, cyclones, and endless curveballs from the weather. But through resilience, adaptability, and passion, they’ve built a flourishing flower farm that continues to grow and evolve.In our conversation, Kathy shares:🌸 The bold decision to leave Sydney and start a new life on the land🌸 How she fell in love with growing flowers (and why chrysanthemums have stolen her heart)🌸 The challenges of farming in the subtropics and learning to adapt to climate extremes🌸 Shifting from retail to wholesale and her vision for expanding the farm🌸 Why she believes it’s so important to educate consumers about imported vs. local flowersKathy’s energy and honesty make this such a special episode—you’ll walk away feeling uplifted and inspired to follow what makes your heart sing.Connect with Plumtree Floral Farm:Instagram: @plumtreefloralfarmFind out more about the Flower Summit @theflowersummit
We go in search of flower farmers, to share their knowledge, passion and insights into the flower industry. Having fun along the way! It's going to be blooming fabulous. Season 2025 coming soon.
Australia