In February, the turnover in pansies was 235.5% higher than last year, according to Royal FloraHolland figures. Also, 137.5% more pieces were sold and these were, with an average price of 50 euro cents per piece, 40% higher in price than the year before.
So far the good news. And that's logical, because the Netherlands already had beautiful weather in the middle of February, while last year it was remarkably cold until the official start of spring. The early bedding plants - pansies, but also products such as bellis and myosotis - have to be sold in the first three weeks of March. "If the weather is nice, everybody is happy in our trade. If not, the pansies are always difficult."
And this is no different this year, according to plant grower André den Drijver. "Indeed, we started energetically, but then the weather turned cold again. First everything bloomed, but then there was another dip. Growers have to hold on to the product, and when the weather turns nice again, everybody goes in without restrictions and all ends up on one heap. Prices are under pressure, and although it is not dramatic, it is not going to be a great season for pansies."
"It is what it is, in this trade the 'weather is merchant'. It has to be done in a short time and in that time everybody is 'fully booked' in flyers, promotions, and special offers. And when it is April 1, the geraniums, osteos, and fuchsias follow, the warmer bedding plants in short, and traders drop the pansies."
Conclusion: the pansy season is going better than last year, and also the other bedding plants have started well, with an average increase turnover of 55.7%, and 60% more pieces sold in February. Whether this spectacular development will continue in March, is uncertain. "We are now starting with the campanulas and then the petunias will follow. We have everything in hanging pots, and they sold out it no time. With a little bit of luck, the same thing will happen this year."
For more information:
André den Drijver
Dortlaan 13
2671 LN Naaldwijk
Netherlands
+31(0)6 54337132
andre@drijver.eu
www.drijver.eu