Wilkinstown nursery owner to showcase locally grown blooms
As the nation gears up for the most anticipated gardening festival of the year Bord Bia Bloom in the Phoenix Park this weekend, Barbara O’Neill of Wilkinstown Flower Farm & Plant Nursery is delighted to have organised the first ever stand exhibition and display area on behalf of the Flower Farmers of Ireland (FFoI).
Flower Farmers of Ireland has also been announced as a silver medal at Bloom.
Barbara set up the Wilkinstown flower farm on five acres in 2020 and is passionate about sustainably growing perennial cut flowers and flowering shrubs.
“We started off growing peonies and the love affair with Irish grown seasonal flowers and foliage took off from there. We supply gift bouquets, events, weddings and wholesale to florists," she said.
Barbara is a member of the FFoI for the past two years and is united with the other members across Ireland in their passion to produce beautiful bouquets with a story that goes beyond just blooms - it’s a tale of dedication, creativity, patience and respect for nature in an industry sector worth over €97 million in 2023.
"The members believe in nurturing not just flowers, but also the entire ecosystem that sustains them, with many farmers using regenerative and organic principles of farming. Choosing locally grown flowers is not just a choice; it’s a statement of solidarity with our planet and future generations. In line with their commitment to environmental stewardship, the association emphasises the crucial role of pollinators in the overall ecosystem. By opting for locally grown flowers, consumers contribute to the preservation of vital pollinator habitats and reduce the large carbon footprint associated with imported blooms," explained Barbara.
Wilkinstown Flower Farm is a haven for pollinators. Barbara recently started beekeeping, and spoke of how lovely it is to see native Irish bees foraging on the flowers.
From 30th May to 3rd June, flower farmers will be present at Bord Bia Bloom to showcase their locally grown blooms and highlight the benefits and importance of Irish grown flowers and Barbara said she is looking forward to meeting fellow flower lovers at their stand in the Nursery Village. You can find out more about Wilkinstown Flower Farm & Plant Nursery on Instagram @wilkinstown_flower_farm and it also features on www.flowerfarmersofireland.ie.