This year, Könst celebrates its 80th anniversary. What began in 1946 as a small Dutch family nursery has grown into an international breeding company. The focus is on developing strong varieties of Alstroemeria and Zantedeschia, built on passion, a long-term vision, and continuous improvement. Könst varieties are designed to contribute to greater sustainability and higher yields throughout the floral supply chain.
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Team Könst Colombia
On February 19, 1946, the father of Hans Könst started growing carnations in the Netherlands. In 1974, Hans began breeding Alstroemeria. What started as a hobby grew into the core of the company. With full dedication to breeding activities, the company took on a new direction. The greenhouses were expanded, the team grew, and breeding became the foundation of Könst's future.
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United Selections Open Days, January 2026 – from left to right: Lars Schalkers, Jelle Posthumus and Bart Tesselaar
In the 1980s, Alstroemeria production in the Netherlands increased significantly. At that time, Könst made an important decision: to invest in varieties that could better tolerate heat. This proved to be a wise choice for the future. The plants subsequently found their way to customers in Europe and later also to Japan, laying the foundation for further international growth.
After that, the company looked beyond Europe. Colombia ordered the first plants, followed by further growth and development there. In 2026, Könst celebrates not only its 80th anniversary, but also 20 years of Könst Colombia. Ecuador, Brazil, and Kenya followed later, strengthening the company's international position. This year, China is also being added — the next step in its global expansion.
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Recently, on behalf of Könst, Paco van der Louw received an award from President Agusto Solano in recognition of the company's 80th anniversary
In the 1990s, Zantedeschia was added to the assortment, with a strong focus on cut flower varieties. This further expanded Könst's knowledge and expertise in breeding.
In September 2024, Hans Könst transferred his shares to Geert Burger, Jelle Posthumus, and Martin Buter. Since then, the daily management has been in the hands of this four-member board. Hans remains involved with the company as a (breeding) advisor, sharing his knowledge and experience. Under this new leadership, Könst continues to build on the strong foundation that has been established, with a focus on the next phase of international growth.
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Recently, Könst opened an expansion of its hardening greenhouse in Colombia
Director Paco van der Louw comments: "Eighty years is not only about the history of our cultivars, but above all about the people who have shaped the company. Our success is also thanks to the trust of growers, partners, and employees. Breeding takes time. It requires patience, focus, and belief in the long term. After all, it takes 7–8 years before a variety becomes commercially available. This involves high and long-term upfront investments. We are proud of where we stand today and motivated to continue growing together with our partners worldwide. On to 100 years!"
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Lab team in Colombia
Behind these 80 years lie stories of hard work, innovation, and trust. Könst is known for Alstroemeria and Zantedeschia, but it is above all the dedication of the team and the loyalty of customers that have made this growth possible.
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Stephanie with the special 80-year anniversary logo that is being used this year
The market is changing, the climate is changing, and customer demands are also evolving. That is why Könst continues to invest in strong genetics, healthy plants, high-quality starting material, and close collaboration with growers. In this way, the company aims to keep developing reliable varieties that perform well worldwide in different cultivation systems and climate conditions.
With gratitude for the trust placed in the company over the past 80 years, and with confidence in the future, Könst continues to work toward its ambition: celebrating its 100th anniversary together in 2046.
For more information:
Könst Alstroemeria
[email protected]
www.alstroemeria.com
