Netherlands: Dirty hands at Schoneveld Breeding

On October 28, Schoneveld Breeding in Twello received a group of special guests. What is necessary to get a plant to grow? What is breeding? How does Schoneveld Breeding do this? A group of elementary school children from Terwolde moved its biology class to Twello, spending a morning getting their hands dirty.

Director/owner Peter van de Pol gives the pupils a tour in the greenhouse

During the Open Days at Schoneveld Breeding, clients and relations are given a tour of the company to look at the new and improved products for the upcoming season. The group of school kids stood out in the greenhouse.

The group was received at around nine by owner/director Peter van de Pol, who told the pupils about the company and about breeding. After this introduction, pupils and teacher got to work on the 'dirty hands game'. One by one, they put their hands into closed-off bins, and had to guess what was in them. The contents consisted of various materials used in the cultivation of plants, such as water. Naturally, this resulted in some hilarious moments.

After the 'dirty hands game', three groups were made for various activities. They were given an explanation about harvesting pollen and pollinating plants, sowing, pricking out and potting plants, and a tour of the greenhouse. After an educational morning, 21 students cycled back to Terwolde, armed with new knowledge and perhaps a kindled ambition in the vegetable sector.

Team leader flower seed production Peter Rigterink explains pollination

It's not the first time that a class has visited the company. Each year, several groups of students come to learn more and take a look behind the scenes.

For more information:
Schoneveld Breeding
Dernhorstlaan 9
7391 HZ Twello
T: +31(0)571 271717
E: info@schoneveld.nl
www.schoneveld.nl