NL: Growing chrysanthemums without chemicals
His company has hardly been using chemical pesticides since 2016, only water. Kim: “We put a lot of thought and effort in keeping our high quality standards without the use of chemicals. We’ve developed our own high pressure vaporising system that reaches a 70% humidity. Bugs can’t stand this level of dampness and disappear from the greenhouse.”
Natural enemies
He thinks it should be common sense for wholesalers and the Dutch government to sharpen their views on sustainable production. “Not only is there a big demand from consumers, it is also only natural to properly look after the environment. Communication is key here as this flower has a lot of natural enemies. Think about birds, caterpillars, bugs and lice. I truly appreciate it when people think about the consequences of their actions.”
One of them is FleuraMetz buyer Arie Schoneveld. He is very pleased with Preferred Supplier de Waal, who is daily up against the prejudice of stereotype chrysanthemum growers: easy job, just turn on the lights and start rolling. Arie: “He shows the industry that there is another way.” This is also shown in his quality standards, only the best bunches are sent out. Arie: “All the bunches we receive have uniform stems, consistent weight and grading. It makes him not only a valued and reliable partner but also the perfect source for our online selection.”
For more information:
FleuraMetz
www.fleurametz.com