A Phillip Island grower will be taking centre stage at this year’s Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show with a striking design.
Michael Van Der Zwet — owner of Maxiflora — will use an array of his locally grown flowers, including hydrangeas, to design the show’s centrepiece inside the Royal Exhibition Building.
“Hydrangeas went out of fashion a while ago, but they have definitely made a comeback now and are in high demand,” Mr Van Der Zwet said.
He has been involved in the industry for 33 years and produces flowers on his 7½ hectare property.
“I produce seasonal cut flowers, which are grown sustainably,” he said.
His passion for flowers has been handed down to his children with his son, Angus, now helping out in the business.