The peony has been a favorite among the public for years. In 2024, a new step was taken by the Post-Harvest Knowledge Center of Royal FloraHolland to make the quality of this special product measurable and visible: the introduction of the peony Post-Harvest certificate. In 2025, the certificate will be continued and expanded.
Angelique Haket and son with the obtained 'Sarah Bernhard' certificate and Sarah Dikker, Post-harvest knowledge center RFH
Certificate as proof of quality
The value of the peony lies not only in its beauty but also in its fragility. The flower is known for its short availability, strong character, and surprise effect, as it goes from a closed bud to full bloom. These characteristics precisely demand precise quality assurance in the chain.
The Post-Harvest Knowledge Center researched the product's shelf life on behalf of the peony growers. Several growers chose to have their product tested twice per season – a requirement to qualify for the official certificate.
The test criteria:
• Vase life of at least 7 days
• Flowers in bud stage upon delivery (phase 3 to 5)
Simone Koole, Post-harvest knowledge center RFH and Frank De Haling, obtained 'Sarah Bernard' & Karl 'Rosenfield' certificate
Pilot 2024
The pilot in 2024 yielded good results: several certificates were awarded, which not only demonstrates the high-quality standard of participating growers but also shows that this testing meets a need. Both within the Netherlands and internationally, the certificate provides extra assurance for buyers, florists, and consumers.
"With the certificate, growers show that their product is not only beautiful upon arrival but also actually performs well in the vase. And that is exactly what the modern consumer expects," according to the Post-Harvest Knowledge Center.
Proud of the sector, proud of the season
The peony is a flower that evokes emotions. This calls for an approach as careful as its cultivation. The certification is not only a measuring tool but also a way to make the craftsmanship and dedication of growers visible.
With the successful pilot behind them, the certificate will be continued and expanded in 2025. More and more growers are joining, contributing to an even stronger quality position of the Dutch peony in the world market.
For more information:
Royal FloraHolland
https://www.royalfloraholland.com/