Question 1

What is sustainable floristry?

Accepted Answer

Sustainable floristry is the practice of designing and arranging flowers in a way that protects people, growers and the planet. It means avoiding single-use floral foam, choosing British-grown seasonal blooms over imported stems, using compostable mechanics and natural foliage, and supporting the small flower farmers who grow ethically.

Question 2

What is foam-free floristry and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Foam-free floristry replaces traditional floral foam with reusable or compostable mechanics — chicken wire, pin frogs, moss, willow armatures, sand, woven structures and water-filled vessels. It matters because floral foam is a single-use, non-biodegradable plastic that sheds microplastics into water and soil.

Question 3

When are British flowers in season?

Accepted Answer

British flowers run from late winter to first frost. Spring brings narcissi, tulips and hellebores. Summer is the peak — peonies, roses, sweet peas and dahlias from late July. Autumn brings late dahlias, chrysanthemums, asters and seed heads. Winter is dried flowers, evergreen foliage and forced narcissi.

Question 4

Where are the in-person floristry workshops held?

Accepted Answer

All in-person workshops take place at The Clockhouse, Field Gate Flowers — a working flower farm at The Thatched Barn, Northampton Road, Lathbury, Buckinghamshire MK16 8JX. About 45 minutes from central London and a short drive from Milton Keynes Central.

Question 5

Who are the courses for?

Accepted Answer

Three groups: hobbyists who simply love flowers; working florists wanting to switch to foam-free, British-grown practice; and flower farmers learning to add floristry to their own grown stems. Each course indicates its level.

We’re excited to chat with you.

The Clockhouse at Lathbury.