Open Flower Network: Starting up & scaling
Sustainability for flower farmers
Nov 11, 2025
How do we define ‘sustainable flowers’? This is an essential question to ask, for growers, wholesale hubs, and florists alike.
In this video, Theresa Schumilas of Garden Party Flower Farms discusses how to define sustainable flowers in an authentic way, arguing that sustainability must start with the soil. She also walks you through an audit of sustainable practices on her own farm, highlighting successes and areas for improvement.
Nobody can give you a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer on sustainability. I think a better question to ask a farmer is ‘Tell me about your soil building practices.’
~ Theresa Schumilas, Garden Party Flower Farm
More resources for
Starting up & scaling
Business Goals for Flower Farmers
Learn how SMART goal setting can turn your vision into clear and meaningful goals for your flower farm business.
Intro to Cut Flower Pricing
Pricing can be a tricky issue for flower farmers! We’re sharing some strategies and a 2024 pricing data spreadsheet as a starting point for Canadian growers.
Favourite Resources for Flower Farmers
We’ve compiled favourite books, podcasts, organizations and more from experienced specialty cut flower farmers.
Financial support was provided under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
