"This new, large-flower gerbera can reach a diameter of as much as 13 cm. Usually, ten centimeters is about the max," says Dean Zuidgeest.
So, this flower has been nominated for the Dutch Glass Tulip Award. It is called the Mayball, Villa Gerbera nursery's latest introduction, and comes from Hilverda Florist's breeding program.
Its unusual bulb shape and countless petals are striking, making the Mayball a worthy successor to the Power Ball which was introduced two years ago, first in a pink, then a yellow, light pink, lilac, and white variety.
"It's being very well received. Florists are even approaching us, asking how they can place orders or if it will be available at auction. We don't always get so much interest. It's great."
Villa Gerbera regularly introduced new varieties, about seven a year. This nursery focuses on wholesalers and florists, so does not rely on quantities. "We focus on special varieties and a broad range," says Dean. "When we started about 12 years ago, we had ten varieties. Now there are 50. Just about all of it is RFH Connect trade, very little goes to auction."
Villa Gerbera is a true family business. Dean has been with them, full-time, for a year now, and his brother joined in 2017. Their grandfather started with freesia, and dad, André, introduced the gerbera. The company is a Summit Gerbera affiliate.
This grower's cooperative is where traders can find the entire gerbera assortment and growers support each other in word and deed.
They now grow seven different varieties in an adjacent greenhouse, which they took over from a neighbor, under their own brand, Villa Curcuma. They acquired this cut flower crop from KP Holland, in 2017.
NB. Vote for the Mayball and other Glass Tulip Award nominees here.
For more information:
Villa Gerbera
14 Vijverberglaan
2675LC, Honselersdijk, NL
Email: Info@VillaGerbera.nl
Website: www.villagerbera.nl