Which products are grown in the Greenhouse?
The main crop grown in the greenhouse is the Schlumbergera, also called Lidcactus or Christmas cactus. This product has been found in the greenhouses of Hofland Flowering Plants for more than 40 years and is therefore their specialty. In the spring, the company also grows Dianthus, Calibrachoa, Begonia, Argyranthemum and Checkies.
What is the most popular product?
In autumn, and especially around Christmas, the Schlumbergera is very popular. In spring, the Dianthus Trixi (three colors in one pot) and the Dianthus 'I Love U' do very well.
What is the cultivation process of the Schlumbergera?
A small Schlumbergera is about 7 centimeters and grows into an adult plant in 6 months. The 17 cm variant takes no less than 14 months to grow so high. The cultivation process starts with taking a cutting from the mother plant. After this, the cutting is potted and starts making roots and its development in growth. When the plant is sufficiently developed, it is transferred to a larger pot. Here the Schlumbergera can grow into a large, mature plant. Before buds develop, the upper leaves are grafted, so that the plant has a beautiful, even shape. After this, the buds grow and the plant is ready for sale.
What is the biggest challenge within the growing process?
It is always looking for the right balance in light level, temperature and how much water the plant needs to get to create the ideal conditions for the Schlumbergera. In addition, diseases always remain a challenge within every breeding process.
Where do the young plants come from?
A large part of the mother plants are in the greenhouse in Naaldwijk. Leaves are taken from the mother plants, potted and grown in to new healthy plants. The rest of the mother plants can be found in Uganda.
What makes the company exclusive?
Hofland Flowering Plants is a nursery that dares to take social responsibility. Sustainability is therefore a very important theme for the grower. 'Be green' is taken seriously and implemented in the entire business operations, from long-term employment contracts and relationships with suppliers to the use of geothermal energy and biological crop protection.
What is being done with regard to sustainability?
Sustainability can be found in all facets of the company. The grower only grows products that require little heat and light. All the water is collected and reused, so nothing is lost. Geothermal energy is used and mainly biological pesticides are used. Some of the greenhouses are equipped with LED lighting and all pots and trays are made of recycled material.
