Kenya: High-altitude cultivation leads to flowerful hydrangeas

FloraDelight is specialized in cut hydrangeas from Kenya. Frans Ederveen: “Our products are shipped and processed daily, there is no difference in quality compared to Dutch produce.”

Hydrangea is a fairly new product to the local Kenyan nurseries. FloraDelight was the first in Kenya to pick up this flower and spent years in developing a quality product. Frans: “The climate in this particular area is ideal for hydrangeas. The flowers were mainly grown in tunnels up until 2016, when we started the changeover to greenhouses. For us, it’s a never ending quest for durable solutions.”

The sturdy stems and optimal development of the blooms are a direct result of the location of the farm. Frans: “We are based just over 2000 meters altitude with limited temperature differences between day and night. That’s how we are able to develop such a strong and beautifully flowering hydrangea.”

Sparring partner
The hydrangeas find peace and quiet in the new greenhouses and are given time to get adjusted throughout the four seasons. Frans: “This is how we are able to work towards a year round supply of consistent quality hydrangeas. Currently, our primary colour is pink with additional shades, such as lilac, different tones of blue, red and white.”

Being a Preferred Supplier, Frans has access to sales figures and is able to discuss the selection, cultivation and availability with his FleuraMetz buyer. Frans: “We discuss things that are missing from the current range and identify best-sellers, so we can offer an optimal selection in future that includes new shades.”

Agreements
FleuraMetz buyer John: “It takes several years before a new variety is ready for commercial production. The transparent, reliable contact between us allows me to know when certain products are available or if a certain crop is stable enough. Our customers are spread throughout the world and therefore have different demands.” Frans: “It’s good that we can make mutual agreements and serve different types of customers.”

Long-term joy
Frans: “All our employees are equally involved, there is so much passion in this company! We have implemented many innovations in the company’s infrastructure in order for a year round supply in the near future. John: “Fresh hydrangeas from Dutch soil are primarily aimed for the summer months and start to finish around September.” Frans: “We want to offer a year round selection as there is a huge potential for hydrangeas across the world. How can it not be? It’s a stunning flower.”

For more information:
FleuraMetz
www.fleurametz.com

Publication date: Mon 23 Oct 2017