Business is booming for two Shropshire flower growers

Two Shropshire flower farmers have become part of a revolution in sustainable growing, with their businesses helping to put the county on the floral map of Britain. Lisa Holt and Beth Evans have both seen huge growth in their flower businesses, which they say are at the centre of a rapidly expanding artisan flower movement created by increasing demand for seasonal, locally grown flowers with lower environmental impact.

Beth’s business, Pheasant Field Flowers, provides bespoke floral designs for weddings and events, as well as growing artisan cut flowers for use in her own work, and for wholesale to fellow florists. Her floristry is based near Much Wenlock.

Lisa’s business, Gate House Florals, is based at Ryton near Shifnal, and creates bouquets and funeral flowers using flowers that hold special memories of people and places. Both benefited from completing a start-up programme with Bridgnorth-based Good2Great after seeking new challenges during coronavirus lockdown, and are celebrating their fifth anniversaries this year.

British-grown flowers are at the centre of their work. Lisa said: “There is something incredibly special about in-season flowers that are grown locally. They have movement, scent, texture and character that really capture the English countryside at that moment in time.”