Lori Bochner’s Journey from Home Gardener to Flower Farmer
Ep.11: A Journey into Flower Farming with Lori Bochner of Bochner Farms
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An inspiring flower farming interview with Lori Bochner of Bochner Farms.
Welcome to the Backyard Bouquet Podcast, where stories bloom from local flower fields and home gardens. In this episode, host Jennifer Gulizia of The Flowering Farmhouse takes us on a heartfelt journey with Lori Bochner from Bochner Farms, a picturesque flower haven nestled in rural central Iowa countryside.
The Unexpected Adventure of Flower Farming
Lori’s journey into the world of flower farming was an unexpected adventure, born out of a love for cultivating beauty in her suburban surroundings. What began as a simple weekend retreat for camping and fishing on 50 acres of raw land quickly blossomed into a full-fledged farm, complete with a farmhouse and fields brimming with vibrant flowers.
From City Living to Country Dream
Lori and her husband, initially city dwellers with jobs in town, had the prettiest flower gardens in the neighborhood. However, their love for flowers led them to purchase 50 acres of land just south of Des Moines in Iowa. What started as a camping getaway soon transformed into a flourishing flower farm, showcasing their passion for cultivating beauty in nature.
The Transformation of Bochner Farms
Bochner Farms evolved from a suburban home adorned with blooming flowers to a sprawling farm bursting with thousands of cut flowers. Lori, responsible for marketing and strategic planning for the farm, witnesses the joy that Bochner Farms and its flowers provide to others. The farm’s growth and success are a true testament to the magic of following one’s heart and turning dreams into reality.
The Enchanting Cottage Garden
One of the highlights of Bochner Farms is the enchanting cottage garden, a healing sanctuary that emerged from a place of grief and loss. Following the passing of Lori’s granddaughter, the cottage garden became a source of solace and healing, filled with vibrant blooms and colors that reflected the spirit of her loved one. The garden’s beauty and significance have touched the hearts of visitors and followers worldwide.
GivingColor: Feeding the Soul and the World
– Lori Bochner
“Flowers feed the soul, they can feed the world too.”
Lori’s commitment to giving back is exemplified through the GivingColor initiative at Bochner Farms. For every flower purchased from the farm, a meal is donated to Meals from the Heartland, a charitable organization that helps to feed the hungry. Through this initiative, Bochner Farms has fed thousands of people, demonstrating the power of flowers to nourish both the soul and the world.
Cultivating Joy and Wellness Through Flowers
Flowers have the remarkable ability to heal, inspire, and bring joy to our lives. Lori’s dedication to creating a space where flowers can thrive and bring comfort to others is a testament to the transformative power of nature. The farm’s events, including farm-to-table dinners, floral and wellness retreats, and intimate gatherings, offer opportunities for individuals to connect with nature and experience the beauty of flower farming firsthand.
Embracing Simplicity and Growth
As Bochner Farms looks ahead to the upcoming season, Lori and her team are focused on embracing simplicity and growth. With plans to enhance their infrastructure, including the construction of a pavilion for events and gatherings, the farm is poised to offer even more opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of flowers and nature. By prioritizing intimate experiences and meaningful connections, Bochner Farms continues to inspire and uplift all who visit.
Lori’s Favorite Flowers To Grow From Seed
When it comes to growing flowers, Lori prefers flowers that are easy and not ‘”fussy.” In this episode, Lori shared with us her Top 5 Flowers to grow from seed. These flowers are easy to grow and will give you an abundance of flowers. And here they are:
- Zinnias
- Celosia
- Gomphrena
- Rudbeckia
- Cosmos
Let Your Backyard Bloom
The journey of Lori Bochner and Bochner Farms is a testament to the transformative power of flowers and nature. From unexpected beginnings to a flourishing flower farm, Lori’s story is a reminder to follow your heart and cultivate beauty wherever you go. As we embrace the beauty of flower farming and the healing properties of nature, let us all allow our backyards to bloom with joy, love, and vibrant colors.
Don’t miss out on the enchanting tales and expert advice shared in this episode of the Backyard Bouquet Podcast. Tune in to hear more about Lori’s journey, the beauty of Bochner Farms, and the magic of flower farming. Let your backyard bloom with inspiration and joy as you explore the world of flowers through heartfelt stories and expert insights.
Be sure to listen to the full episode on the Backyard Bouquet Podcast to immerse yourself in the beauty of flower farming and discover the transformative power of nature. Join Jennifer Gulizia and Lori Bochner on a journey of growth, healing, and the joy of cultivating beauty in the world around us.
Note: This blog post is inspired by the Backyard Bouquet Podcast episode featuring Lori Bochner from Bochner Farms. For the full story and insights, be sure to listen to podcast episode 11.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- 00:02:37 – Introduction to Bochner Farms
- 00:15:51 – Managing U-cuts and flower harvesting
- 00:25:20 – Favorite flowers to grow from seed
- 00:30:24 – Creation of the cottage garden
- 00:35:36 – Giving Color Initiative at Bochner Farms
- 00:43:47 – Plans for the upcoming year
- 00:49:05 – Hosting events at the flower farm and the size of gatherings
- 00:51:11 – Advice from Lori Bochner
Learn more about Bochner Farms:
- https://bochnerfarms.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/bochnerfarms
- https://www.facebook.com/bochnerfarms
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Discover More Episodes Of The Backyard Bouquet Podcast:
Growing Cut Flowers In A Vineyard
Soil Health for Flower Farmers
Graeme Corbett: Life In Bloom
Should Flower Farmers Be Using AI?
