The Science and Art of Plant Breeding with Dr. Keith Hammett

The Science and Art of Plant Breeding with Dr. Keith Hammett

Author: Scott Shepherd, Host and Flower Educator October 30, 2025 Duration: 1:11:38

This week, Scott explores the intersection of science and artistry in the world of flower breeding. Dr. Keith Hammett, New Zealand's leading ornamental plant breeder, shares his passion for developing Dahlias, Sweet Peas, and Clivias that blend genetics, color, and creativity. Together, they discuss the delicate balance between science and art, the importance of scent in breeding, the joy of discovery, and how breeders quietly shape the world of floristry through their vision and dedication.

This episode is made possible by our sponsors:

Rooted Farmers: Connecting flower farmers and florists through one simple, trusted platform. Visit RootedFarmers.com and use code TFP25 for special offer of $75.00 off any individual plan (essential or pro) with Rooted Farmers.

 ASCFG: Supporting flower farmers with education, research, and community. Learn more at ascfg.org.

Learn more about today's episode and all of our past guests by visiting TheFlowerPodcast.com

Subscribe to The Flower Podcast on your favorite podcast platform. We are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more! 

You can also watch our conversations on YouTube, in addition to tip-filled videos and educational Lives. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a minute.


Scott Shepherd has spent years immersed in the world of blooms, not just as a host but as an educator, and he brings that entire perspective to The Flower Podcast. This isn't just about pretty arrangements; it's a deep, root-level exploration of the entire floral industry. Conversations here weave between the practical realities of running a business and the sheer creative joy found in a garden. You'll hear from the people whose hands are in the soil-flower farmers and growers-as well as the designers, photographers, and entrepreneurs who translate that natural beauty into art and commerce. Each episode features a different voice from this vibrant community, sharing specific knowledge on trends, techniques, and the personal journeys that fuel a life with flowers. Whether you're a professional florist looking for savvy advice, a hobbyist seeking inspiration, or simply someone who appreciates the intersection of nature and enterprise, this podcast offers a unique bouquet of insights. Tune in for genuine, meandering chats that always circle back to a shared passion, revealing the surprising depth and connectivity within the floral world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Flower Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Selling to a Wholesaler: No Till Flowers with Scott Shepherd [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:09
I'm excited to share this week's episode with you! Earlier this year Jenny Love, flower farmer expert and host of the No Till Flowers podcast, asked me to be a guest on her podcast to chat about working with wholesalers…
Finding Your MVP with Ashley Fox of Ashley Fox Designs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:44
This week, I'm joined by Ashley Fox, the creative force behind Ashley Fox Designs, a full-service floral studio in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Specializing in stunning floral arrangements for weddings, events, and edi…
Sarah Winward: Creating Weddings That Reflect Nature [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:13:38
Sarah Winward is a floral artist and event designer based in Salt Lake City, Utah, specializing in destination weddings. Her work, known for its seasonal, nature-inspired designs, has been featured in The New York Times…
Selling to Florists with Sarah Jo Eversole of Everbloom Fields [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:48
My guest this week is Sarah Jo Eversole, owner of Everbloom Fields in Lancaster, TX. It might be a micro flower farm, but she produces not only exceptional quality blooms but high volume as well. She shares many of her e…
Mindshift:  Serving Not Selling with Charlotte Smith [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:03:16
I'm excited to share that Charlotte Smith is our guest again on The Flower Podcast. Charlotte teaches farmers the skills they need to make money on their farms and live calm, balanced lives through mindset coaching. Goin…
Replay: Growing Dahlias with Kristine Albrecht of Santa Cruz Dahlias [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:10:28
Ready to talk Dahlias? This week my guest is Kristine Albrecht of Santa Cruz Dahlias. Known for her award winning dahlia hybrids and her book, Dahlia Breeding for the farmer florist and the home gardener, Kristine is sha…