Frequently Asked Questions

About the Patch

What's your one-sentence description of the farm?

A charming little pick-your-own flower patch, set in picturesque Mountain River, which invites you to slow down, reconnect and pick your own bouquet of flowers to take home.

How did you start the farm?

Matt has always loved gardening and his passion for it got me interested in it too, and as he planted more things around our property, I suggested that we should open our garden to the public to share it all with others.

What do you grow and how do you choose varieties?

We grow a variety of different flowers – dahlias, roses, peonies, sunflowers, cosmos, zinnias, carnations, and sweet peas just to name a few. We choose flowers that we like the appearance of and will last as cut flowers in bunches.

Which flowers or scenes define the patch?

The dahlias are a focal point, as well as the large rows of sunflowers. And the mountain backdrop!

Who's involved day-to-day?

Both Matt and Alice, and our children also help with planting seeds, weeding and of course picking the flowers into little posies for the bench or kitchen table.

How do you manage pests and weeds without chemicals?

We hand weed all the patches and mulch some areas. Pests are kept at bay by focussing on having good, nutritious soil which helps the plants to thrive. Strong and healthy plants are more resilient to pests. We also occasionally let the chickens loose to 'clean up' around the patch.

What happens to flowers that aren't picked?

Most of the flowers get picked, however if some are left on the bushes, we remove them to encourage more growth and they go to the compost, or our children play with them in their outdoor kitchen.

The Experience

What three words describe the experience here?

Beauty, peacefulness, connection.

Can I take photos while I'm there?

Casual photos can be taken during flower picking sessions, but photoshoots must be booked separately.

Do you allow professional or commercial photography sessions?

Yes.

Can I bring a picnic or refreshments?

Yes.

Can I leave and come back on the same day?

You may leave and come back within the assigned picking session.

Do you run workshops or guided tours?

Not this year but we do have plans to do this in the future.

How long does a typical picking session last?

3hrs.

Can I refill my vase or pick extra blooms?

Yes – you may request a second vase to fill at the cost of $30.

Are evening sessions lit or do we need to bring torches?

Evening sessions are in daylight hours.

Planning Your Visit

What's included (buckets, tools, guidance)?

Vase and clippers are provided for use on site and a picking demonstration is included.

What should guests wear or bring?

Comfortable clothing, appropriate shoes and sunhat. It is suggested that visitors bring a bucket to transport their bunch of flowers home in.

Are kids and dogs welcome?

Children are very welcome and can even make their own posies! However, for the safety and comfort of all guests and our farm animals, dogs are not permitted on the property.

Can I bring food or drinks?

Yes, you are welcome to bring a picnic or refreshments to enjoy during your visit. However, please note that alcohol is not permitted on the site.

Any house rules?

No smoking please. The flower patch is next to our family home so please use appropriate language at all times. Please do not walk over or step in the flower beds.

Are bees a concern for guests with allergies?

Being a flower patch there are many bees around. We will have an epi-pen available on site if needed.

Is parking available on-site?

Limited parking is available at this stage. Car-pooling is appreciated where possible.

Is the patch wheelchair or pram accessible?

Parts of the patch are accessible, other areas have softer, sloping ground so may not be suitable for wheelchairs.

Are there toilets on-site?

Yes, this year we have a port-a-toilet available on site for guest use.

Can we pay on arrival, or is it pre-booked tickets only?

Pre-booked tickets only.

Tickets & Booking

Do you want to sell a season subscription?

We don't offer a subscription this year, however this may be something we consider in the future.

Can florists or stylists book early-morning picking?

We are very happy to discuss options outside the set picking sessions via email.

Do you want to host school groups, community groups, or team-building days?

We are very happy to discuss options outside the set picking sessions via email.

Is there a discount or special process for large groups?

At this stage due to parking restrictions, we are unable to host large group sessions.

Private Events

Do you host private events such as birthdays, proposals, or anniversaries at the patch?

Yes, please visit 'private picking session' tab for more information.

Can I bring my own photographer, decorations, or catering for a private session?

Yes.

Is there a minimum number of guests for private bookings?

A minimum of 5 picking guests is required for a private booking.

How much time do we get for private events?

Each private picking session is 3hrs in duration.

Families & Kids

Are families and children welcome?

Yes, absolutely!

Are there any activities for children?

Children will be able to create their own posy from a pre-picked bucket of flowers.

Are children under 16 free?

Yes.

Do children need to be accompanied by an adult?

Yes.

Is the patch suitable for prams or small children?

Yes. Children must be under supervision.

Policies & Weather

What's the bad-weather or cancellation policy?

Sessions will go ahead unless heavily raining on the day, in which case you will be notified of cancellation and offered a full refund or option to reschedule.

What is your cancellation policy if I can't make my booked session?

For public sessions - Tickets can be transferred to a friend or family member, or if notified 48hrs before we can refund or reschedule. Cancellations with less than 48hrs notice will not be refunded.

What is your cancellation policy for private sessions?

For private sessions – If a single guest must cancel 48hrs before, they will be refunded, but minimum of 5 picking tickets must be maintained. If whole event is cancelled by guest co-ordinator 48hr before, entire amount will be refunded. If less than 48hrs notice, minimum 5 picking tickets and patch hire fee will still need to be paid.

What do you wish people knew before visiting?

The flower patch is part of our home property so please be respectful and follow instruction of where to pick.

Do you have any safety guidelines?

Please wear appropriate shoes, be mindful of where you are walking and follow any spoken and written instructions indicating areas that are not for public access (i.e. veggie garden, beehives, orchard).

Getting in Touch

How do you prefer to be contacted?

Via email which is flowers@mountainriverflowerpatch.com.au or our contact page on the website

What questions do people already ask most?

When do you open. For public picking our opening hours correspond with tickets being sold on the ticketing page, for private events, we are subject to availability.

What's the best way to stay updated on open days or events?

Email list, Social media, our Facebook, Instagram pages.

Charm & Personality

What do you love most about flower season?

The beauty surrounding us.

Do you have a favourite bloom or variety each year?

The dahlias are a standout, and the sunflowers create a cheerful atmosphere. Often it is too hard to choose just one!

What's something people are always surprised to learn about the patch?

People are often surprised that we haven't been growing a big patch of flowers for very long.

How would guests hopefully describe their visit afterward?

Peaceful and enjoyable.