Happy new year to everyone.

What are we doing on the flower farm this month?

We’ve ordered and planted several hundred shrubs and perennials to extend the season.   We realised last year that we needed more flowers in October to go with the lovely dahlias. We’re soaking and sowing another big batch of anemones and ranunculus some of which are a lovely burgundy colour – new this year – they should be ready towards the end of April.

Although all our seed has been ordered we try not to sow any of it until February the fifteenth when we get ten hours of daylight: seed sown under cover in February or March will catch up with seed sown in January, and make stronger, straighter plants which will do much better.

Sweet peas have been planted in the tunnel and I’m keeping a close eye on the seedlings planted in there (ammi, stocks, orlaya and bells of Ireland) careful not to over water, and never to water after mid day, or if a frost is forecast.  And when it’s as wet as this I’m trying to keep off the land as much as possible and not get blown away.

Open days
We’ll be opening the farm on 21 June and 16th August this year from 2.00pm to 5.00pm.
If you know anyone that’s getting married and would like to visit us to see the flowers we have, then we’re holding open evenings for brides on 3 June, 15 July and 2 September. More information is available here https://orchardfarmflowers.co.uk/bridal-evenings/

On-line shop
New for 2020 is our on-line shop which will make it easier to buy gift bouquets, flower arrangers buckets and book onto workshops.  You’re still welcome to use e-mail and phones as well. This should be live next month all ready for the start of the season in March – watch this space.

Social Media
If you’re on facebook or instagram or twitter follow along with the hashtag #flowerfarmerama to read stories from us and other flower farmers up and down the country all through January.

Nic & Zoe – Orchard Farm Flowers