In the spotlights
Forsythia, better known as the Chinese bellflower, is a beloved spring bloomer thanks to its bright yellow flowers. What makes this shrub so special is that its flowers appear before the leaves unfold. The result? A radiant display of yellow blooms that not only looks stunning but also spreads a delightful fragrance. Recently, we visited the family business of Jeroen van der Jagt, who gave us an exclusive behind-the-scenes look.
Van der Jagt
The Van der Jagt company has a rich history. In 1978, Jeroen’s father and uncle purchased their first piece of land: three hectares with no shed, greenhouse, or electricity. Back then, cauliflower was the main crop, with Forsythia as a winter addition. Around the year 2000, they transitioned to cut flowers, with Forsythia remaining an important part of their production, alongside other crops like peonies and snowberries (Symphoricarpos). Jeroen, who had been actively helping out since childhood, became a partner in 2012 and now manages the daily operations. His father remains a major shareholder.
Cultivation
The Forsythia harvesting process
Forsythia normally blooms in March, but demand for the branches often starts earlier, for example, for Chinese New Year. To meet this demand, Jeroen begins harvesting as early as October. In the fields, the long branches are cut using a brush cutter. They are then meticulously trimmed in the workshop, with lengths ranging from 45 to 170 centimeters. Afterwards, the branches are placed in a cold storage unit, kept at -2 degrees Celsius, for about 40 days. To prevent drying out, the branches are sprayed daily.
After this cold period, the branches are manually defoliated and placed in water at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. Within a week, the buds are mature enough, and the Forsythia branches can be sent to auction.
As spring approaches, the harvesting process becomes less intensive; the branches have already had sufficient cold, and the leaves naturally fall off, allowing them to be placed in water immediately after cutting.
A biennial crop
In the first year, the branches grow, and in the following year, the shrub forms new buds. Forsythia shrubs can grow very old; Jeroen has specimens that are over 50 years old! However, when a shrub needs replacing, it takes about four years before it can produce flowering branches again. A shrub reaches its full yield potential after six to eight years.
Care tips
Jeroen’s most important tip: ensure the branches never dry out. Forsythia needs plenty of water to bloom beautifully. Place the branches in a vase with sufficient water immediately after purchase. Even half a day without water can cause damage. Keep a close eye on the water level to enjoy this radiant spring bloomer for as long as possible!
Jeroen’s passion
When asked what Jeroen loves most about his work, he replied:
“The best part is creating something from nothing and doing it as well as possible. Every season has its own charm. Whether it’s peonies, snowberries, or Forsythia, watching a crop grow is always special.”
FloraPodium, 15 January 2025
Nursery
Inspiration
