And in her latest floral venture, aptly named Must Love Flowers, she is sharing it with more people.
Leonie is opening a nursery in Finley, and looks forward to sharing her knowledge with anyone who comes in.
The nursery will officially open this Sunday, June 28, with everyone welcome to stop by between 10am to 4pm.
The nursery is co-located with Leonie’s rural florist and flower farm about 3km from Finley, at the corner of the Newell Highway and Donaldsons Rd.
Leonie says the nursery will mainly stock Australian and South African native plants, shrubs and farm trees to start.
Think proteas, banksias, eucalyptus and Geraldton wax, which are great for growth on farms, encourage native birds and are easy maintenance.
Seedlings to stock the nursery with even more plants are currently in development.
Leonie has been a florist in the region for the last 30 years, and has more than three decades of experience in the trade.
She describes it as a “lifelong love”.
“I knew I’d be a florist from the time I was six years old.
“I was inspired by a South African lady, Mrs Morton, who had some of the most beautiful roses I’d ever seen.
“I was so impressed that I told her that when I was older, I would grow roses.
“She responded to me that I should also see the beautiful native flowers that grew in South Africa.
“At the time I had no idea, but no doubt she talked about proteas and other plants that I’ve since grown.
“My mum also has had a huge influence too in my exposure to all things gardens.
“Overall, I have had many wonderful people and helpers influence me in learning how to love and care for plants.”
Leonie has since had a long and heartfelt journey with gardening, flowers and plants.
Previously running Finley Buds and Blooms, she transformed her efforts into Must Love Flowers.
“I think opening up a new nursery will be an extension of my passion for flowers and plants for all to share and enjoy,” she said.
Sunday’s opening will include a complimentary morning tea and a few little pop-up stalls that are gardening orientated.
After the official opening, Must Love Flowers will be open from 10am to 4pm from Wednesday to Sunday each week.
But flowers are available daily 7am to 7pm, via a self-serve system.
Opportunities also exist for garden clubs, community groups, family or individual visits, and for those who want to pick their own flowers.
Must Love Flowers also do special orders for all occasions, including wedding bouquets and funeral wreaths.
Wedding florals from Must Love Flowers that were picked up on Friday.
A bright arrangement from Must Love Flowers.
Another beautiful arrangement from Must Love Flowers.
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