NL: Peonies season kicks off at Groot&Groot

The peony season lasts only for a couple of weeks and that's why Decorum, a Dutch cooperation of sixty plants- and flower growers, makes an extra effort in promoting the flower. A delegation visited the grower op peonies Groot & Groot, to form an impression of the current state of affairs.

Groot&Groot started in 1960 with the cultivation of bulbs; first tulips and irises, and later also lilies were added. In the 80's the cultivation of lily became more and more important, up to a point that it was decided to stop the cultivation of the other crops, irises and tulips, all together. Thanks to this decision, Groot&Groot created some 'left-over' time in spring; a time perfectly apt for cultivating peonies.

These days, Groot&Groot exclusively grows peonies. Michael Groot is running the business together with his two sons, Joost and Coen. A true family business with a passion for the product.

Peonies season kicks off
This week Decorum paid the grower a visit, at which tension before the start of the season was clearly felt. Joost Groot gave his visitors a tour: "For us, this is the busiest time of the year. Simultaneously, it is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. We are now starting to supply four varieties. Over the coming weeks this amount will build up to our full range of 20 varieties."

Extending the season
Besides their Dutch growing facilities, the company exploits a production field in France. Joost: "We already planted the crops, hoping to be ahead of the competition next year. If all goes well and weather conditions are no different than usual, we will be able to deliver three weeks earlier in comparison with this year. We are looking forward to that!"

Click here for more information & pictures (website Decorum)