March 18, 2025 – El Jardín Farm, Colombia
If Day One at San Ignacio revealed the heart of garden rose cultivation, Day Two at El Jardín Farm gave us a deeper look into the science, systems, and sensory experience that define Alexandra Farms’ reputation for excellence.
Located in the Eastern Ranges of the Colombian Andes, El Jardín is the newest of Alexandra’s farms—already recognized for its focus on innovation. The property spans 24 hectares, with 14 hectares under greenhouse, and was the first where Alexandra began cultivating David Austin garden rose varieties. It’s also home to hydroponic greenhouses, which support 20% higher production—a meaningful difference in today’s challenging market conditions.
Post-Harvest Excellence
During our tour, we saw firsthand how 30,000 stems are processed each day. Roses are hydrated for 4–6 hours, then packed and shipped with great precision. No product is stored for more than two days in cold storage—ensuring the level of freshness Choice Farms customers count on.
We also learned how different greenhouse mediums, including Kraft paper and black plastic, are used to influence the shade and coloration of blooms. This kind of environmental control showcases just how much science goes into creating consistent, high-impact roses—especially for the event and wedding markets.
Fragrance Workshop: A Rare Olfactory Experience
We were honored to participate in Alexandra’s second-ever fragrance workshop, an immersive experience that explored the scent profiles of garden roses. From crisp citrus notes to rich, musky tones, the workshop reminded us that fragrance isn’t just a detail—it’s a powerful element of floral storytelling.
Florists working in weddings and events know the emotional weight of scent. Being able to pair visual beauty with fragrance elevates the sensory experience of every bouquet or installation.
Roses Rooted in History
While surrounded by modern innovation, it was humbling to reflect on a pivotal moment in rose breeding history: in 1867, French rosarian Jean-Baptiste André Guillot introduced La France, the first hybrid tea rose and the birth of the modern rose era. That legacy lives on at Alexandra Farms, where iconic varieties like Westminster, with its silvery grey petals edged in pink, carry forward the tradition of beauty and craftsmanship.
Connection and Cultural Celebration
“From the fragrance workshop to conversations during our design session, Day Two was a beautiful reminder that floristry is as much about relationships as it is about flowers. There’s something powerful about connecting with fellow florists who understand both the art and logistics of working with these blooms.”
— Behind-the-scenes reflection from the Choice Farms team
As the day wrapped up, we gathered for a floral design session that was as collaborative as it was inspiring. The creative exchange was a highlight of the trip—but it was the final surprise that left us speechless: a traditional Colombian cumbia dance performed by Alexandra Farms team members.
Their joyful performance wasn’t just entertainment—it was an act of gratitude and cultural pride. Many of the dancers were farm workers who prepared the performance to thank visitors and partners. It was a reminder of the people behind the flowers, and the global partnerships that make it all possible.
¡Gracias, Alexandra Farms!
We are incredibly grateful to the entire team at Alexandra Farms for their generosity, hospitality, and commitment to excellence. From innovation in cultivation to heartfelt cultural connection, Day Two reminded us why we’re proud to partner with them in bringing world-class garden roses and other specialty varieties to our customers.
We also would like to extend our gratitude to our phenomenal travel partners that came from all over the globe to tour the farms with us. We hope our paths cross again soon!
