In this episode of The Flower Podcast, Scott welcomes Erik van der Sluys of Beneficial Insectary for a deep dive into natural pest control strategies tailored specifically for flower farmers. They explore practical, real-world approaches to managing common pests such as thrips, aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and fungus gnats, and discuss how integrating beneficial insects into your growing system can dramatically improve plant health and resilience.

Erik breaks down how growers can strengthen their Integrated Pest Management (IPM) through foundational cultural practices (watering, fertilizing, crop rotation), sanitation practices (removing plant debris, cleaning tools, controlling weeds), and mechanical controls (sticky traps, insect screens, targeted water sprays). He also explains how and when to release beneficial insects—such as predatory mites, parasitic wasps, lacewings, and lady beetles—to support the natural ecosystem of your fields, tunnels, and greenhouses.

Listeners will learn how to read seasonal pest patterns, track insect lifecycles, monitor temperatures for pest activity, and build habitats that attract and sustain beneficial insects. The conversation highlights why understanding the biology of both pests and beneficials is essential for long-term success, especially when dealing with repeat issues in crops like dahlias, lisianthus, zinnias, snapdragons, and more.

Whether you're looking to reduce chemical pesticides, improve your biological control strategy, or create a more sustainable, resilient flower farm, this episode is packed with actionable guidance and expert insights to help you manage pests naturally—and grow stronger, healthier blooms.

Learn more about this topic by visiting Beneficial Insectary.

Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers: Learn more and join at ascfg.org

Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for $75 off your new membership.

The Gardener's Workshop — Helping flower farmers grow smarter at thegardenersworkshop.com

Visit accentdecor.com and be inspired for your floral design containers and decor.

Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast.

Scott Shepherd sits down with floral designer and grower Lindsey Mizock of Pompelmo Floral to talk about creativity, freelancing, and what it means to intentionally keep your business small. Lindsey shares insights from her years working on small farms along the California coast, her fine-art background, and her approach to design rooted in observation and authenticity. Together, they explore favorite flower varieties, the freedom of freelancing, and how staying small can create space for deeper creativity and connection in your floral business.

Don't miss the Sell Your Flowers Summit, a free three-day online event happening November 20–22. Join host Lennie Larkin and 15+ experts to gain clarity, confidence, and community in selling your flowers. Learn more at SellYourFlowersSummit.com.

Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com

Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! If you have a minute, it would be great if you could leave a review wherever you listen to our podcast.

You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a minute.

This week, Scott explores the intersection of science and artistry in the world of flower breeding. Dr. Keith Hammett, New Zealand's leading ornamental plant breeder, shares his passion for developing Dahlias, Sweet Peas, and Clivias that blend genetics, color, and creativity. Together, they discuss the delicate balance between science and art, the importance of scent in breeding, the joy of discovery, and how breeders quietly shape the world of floristry through their vision and dedication.

This episode is made possible by our sponsors:

Rooted Farmers: Connecting flower farmers and florists through one simple, trusted platform. Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for special offer of $75.00 off any individual plan (essential or pro) with Rooted Farmers.

ASCFG: Supporting flower farmers with education, research, and community. Learn more at ascfg.org.

Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com

Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more!

You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a minute.