Locally Grown Flowers: The Beauty and Benefits of Dorset's Flower Farms
Here in the south, we're blessed to have a bunch of talented and passionate local growers who produce some of the most gorgeous and unique flowers and foliage. From where I’m based in Swanage, I'm just a quick drive away from some fantastic growers, and there are plenty more scattered throughout Dorset.
One of my absolute favorite things about using locally grown flowers (aside from the environmental and economical benefits) is that they have a unique beauty that's hard to find in imported blooms. They typically grow more freely and organically, giving off a wild and natural vibe that tells the story of the area and the season they were grown in. I love incorporating local flowers and foliage into my designs and am always happy to help you know what's available for your special occasion.
If you're curious about learning more about locally grown flowers, I recommend heading over to Flowers From the Farm, which offers a wealth of information and guides on what's available throughout the year. And while you're here, take a look below to discover just a few of the amazing local growers based near me on the south coast.
The Really Wild Bunch
Annie, the founder of The Really Wild Bunch, recently teamed up with fellow flower farmer Jenny Cobb of Pennyclose Farm Flowers. Together, this North Dorset pair specialize in seasonal, unusual, and scented flowers and are committed to sustainability and eco-friendly growing practices. For Annie, flowers are more than just decoration; they have the power to bring calm, beauty, and kindness into our lives; she supplies cut flowers to both professional florists as well as buckets of flowers for DIY home flower arranging.
Blooming with local charm: Colourful ranunculus - a popular cut flower in Dorset.
Brothers Farm Flowers
Brothers Dan and Josh have been working on their picturesque East Dorset farm since 2018, and now lead a large and ever-growing team. With a deep passion for locally grown flowers and sustainable farming practices, they expertly cultivate a beautiful array of seasonal varieties, from a kaleidoscope of colouful cut flowers to fragrant herbs, and foliage. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the delights of their pick-your-own organic blueberry field and a bustling on-site barn cafe, making it the ideal spot to unwind with a cup of coffee and some stunning local blooms.
The star of late summer: Dahlias flourish on flower farms along the South Coast
Bee Nice Blooms
Bee Nice Blooms is based in Abbotsbury near the seaside town of Weymouth. Samantha Wood, the owner, is from a 6th generation farming family and has specialized in garden design and gardening services for the past 20 years, with multiple RHS and City and Guilds qualifications. Her flower farm (which has also won several accolades) is managed ecologically on a no-dig system and offers a range of floral services and seasonal cut flowers as well as wholesale flowers for florists. If you’re interested in finding out more, Samantha also hosts open days and private tours where you can experience and learn more about her garden and even pick a bunch of flowers to take home. The perfect way to spend an afternoon in Dorset!
From vibrant hues to delicate pastels: Tulips are a staple cut variety amongst Dorset flower farms
By supporting UK flower farms we can all help to promote a more sustainable floral industry, and support the local economy and ecology; all while enjoying the unique beauty and fragrance of locally grown flowers and foliage. Naturally, the season or weather can affect supply; it’s not always possible to source all of the flowers we need for your wedding or event locally but I’m always happy to talk about what is generally available to make sure we can incorporate at least a few of the many home-grown gems available to us on our doorstep.
