Willow catkin: Modest, but versatile
Some seemingly simple materials turn out to be surprisingly versatile. The goat willow (Salix caprea) is a good example of this. Modest in appearance, but abundant in the Dutch landscape. Willow grows wherever the soil contains sufficient water. It is a tree that is deeply rooted in our culture and craftsmanship.
The delight of blossoming
Flowers, plants and the season have a magical connection. Every year, after the gray winter months, we look forward to spring. In no other season can you enjoy the budding, the rising, the blossoming - and that on all levels, from bulbs to trees.
Export of flowers and plants exceeds 7 billion euros in 2024
In 2024, Dutch exports of flowers and plants reached a turnover of 7.1 billion euros, an increase of 4% compared to the previous year. This is according to export statistics from Floridata, published by the Association of Wholesalers in Floricultural Products (VGB).
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword
There is no doubt that our sector has come under heavy fire lately in terms of sustainability. At the beginning of October, the news broke: 'Florist's work in France proves fatal: first link between pesticides and child's death demonstrated'. Shortly afterwards, the municipality of Zutphen appeared in the press: 'On the initiative of the Party for the Animals, the municipality no longer gives flowers as gifts because a majority of the municipal council believes they are not sustainable.'
Florists sidelined by Topbloemen.nl
Online flower delivery service Topbloemen.nl is discontinuing the network of local florists for the distribution of online-ordered bouquets. The permanent collaboration with 83 local florists in the Netherlands will be terminated no later than June 30, 2025, preferably even earlier. A letter with this announcement was delivered to the affiliated florists on June 3.
The ultimate bridal flower
The lily of the valley has all the assets to be the ultimate bridal flower. First of all, it is spotlessly pure white, traditionally the color of virginity. And then there is the freshness and the irresistibly delicious scent. A more practical aspect is its availability in May, the bridal month par excellence.