Short season, high pace: Grower for a Day at cut hyacinth grower Van Noort

In the latest episode of Decorum’s Grower for a Day, Michael Perry, better known as Mr. Plant Geek, spends a day working alongside Van Noort Hyacinten, a specialist in cut hyacinths. “It is impressive to see how a relatively small flower requires so much technology, precision and knowledge,” says Perry. “Van Noort takes every step of the process to a truly top level.”

Viewers get an exclusive behind the scenes look at a forcing process where a short but intensive season requires perfect timing, a high working pace and outstanding expertise. During his visit, Michael Perry discovers how Van Noort Hyacinten succeeds in delivering consistent quality on a large scale.

The cultivation of cut hyacinths requires precision at every stage of the process, from preparation to harvest. One of the remarkable aspects is that the hyacinths are forced on water instead of in soil. This method helps create a uniform and clean product and gives the grower greater control over the growth and quality of the flowers.

Viewers also gain insight into how existing technology is adapted to the specific requirements of cut hyacinths. Machines that were originally developed for tulips or roses are further refined by Van Noort for this niche cultivation. Less visible but crucial techniques are also highlighted, all contributing to a longer vase life of the flower.

Van Noort is a traditional family business with a rich history in hyacinth cultivation and is affiliated with Decorum, the quality label for flowers and plants. Frank, Ruud and Fieke van Noort have specialised in forcing hyacinths since 1972, a process in which heat and cooling cells are used to control the forcing of the bulbs. Since 2010 the company has focused entirely on forcing cut hyacinths.

As one of the very few forcing specialists in the world, Van Noort forces hyacinth bulbs on water instead of in soil. This makes clean and efficient production possible and contributes to high quality flowers of around 30 cm in length. The assortment includes approximately 15 different varieties of hyacinths, several of which are exclusively available from Van Noort.

The visit shows that Van Noort Hyacinten ultimately follows one principle: continuously refining what is already good in order to reach the highest possible level of quality.

The latest episode of Grower for a Day with Van Noort can now be viewed on the Decorum YouTube channel.