The Art and Science of Rooftop Farming with Joanna Letz
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Growing Blooms in the Sky
In today’s BB Podcast Episode (No. 112), we’re visiting with Joanna Letz, owner of Bluma Flower Farm, a rooftop flower farm in Berkeley, California. If you’re intrigued by the thought of Joanna’s transition from traditional farming to rooftop farming (six stories up in the sky!), the unique challenges it presents, and the logistics involved, you’ll find this conversation fascinating.
Join us as we chat about:
- The financial challenges faced by farmers
- A variety of activities at Bluma Flower Farm (direct-to-consumer sales, weddings, events, teaching)
- The transition from traditional farming to rooftop farming and designing floral arrangements
- Some logistical challenges of farming on a rooftop (carrying materials, weight restrictions, quick-draining soil)
- Challenges with irrigation and water management on the rooftop farm
- Joanna’s background and career aspirations
- The importance of taking risks and making changes for personal and professional growth
Links mentioned in this episode:
- Brooklyn Grange
- Green Gulch Farm & Zen Center
- UC Santa Cruz Farm Program
- Kitchen Table Advisors
- Benjamin Fahrer + YouTube video of the soil being blown onto the roof of what is now Bluma Flower Farm
- Subtle Fields
- Farm Dreams Season 1 Ep. 2: Raising the Roof with Joanna Letz
All images above courtesy of Nicola Parisi
Follow Bluma Flower Farm:
- Website
- Instagram: @blumafarm
TODAY’S EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
MADRID FLOWER SCHOOL
Want to study floral design in Europe? Madrid Flower School offers contemporary and traditional styles and techniques with 10 instructors. Check out the professional program which also includes photography, styling, and business essentials. Offered in both Spanish and English.
Co-Hosts: Amy McGee (BB + Bloom Trust Co.) & Natalie Gill (Native Poppy)
BB Podcast Sound Engineer: Joel McGee
Music Written & Performed by: Landon McGee
If you enjoyed this episode, you might also enjoy our visit with Jessica & Stephanie of Harmony Harvest Farm. Click here to listen.
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