The Story of M - 2021/2022 by Marginpar

THE STORY OF From Russia with love

DmitryTurcan

TOP 10 FLORAL TRENDS GREGOR LERSCH

Designing against gravity Joseph Massie

The quest for Eryngium Questar®

THE PERFECT SPOT PRIME LOCATIONS UNDER THE AFRICAN SUN

MARGINPAR FOUNDATION

Dmitry Turcan - Eremeev Photography

THE STORY OF M Marginpar creates millions of beautiful, unique flowers

But it is not just about flowers. Environmental

every year. Every day 100.000 bouquets are made

sustainability is very important to us. We are a proud

with our flowers. Flowers are emotion, flowers are life.

member of the Floriculture Sustainability Initiative

We party, we mourn, we decorate, we show, we say

(FSI2025) and aim to achieve a 100% sustainable

‘sorry’ and ‘I love you’.

production for all our flowers.

At Marginpar we believe the flower experience is even

Our people are number one. Our culture is one of

more meaningful when you know the story behind

recognition, value and trust. As a result, people are

the flowers. We talk about nature, product, people.

happier, and we see them grow within the company.

The flowers from Marginpar are grown for you with

With the help of our dedicated staff, our flowers

passion. Pure, authentic, stylish and surprising, from

flourish well. This is our story: The story of M.

our farms in Africa. By working closely with our partners, we are able to guarantee the high quality of our products. And with the help of many talented floral designers around the world, we strive to inspire you in the best possible way. We grow more than 120 varieties of flowers on our Marginpar farms in Kenya and Ethiopia and on our partner farms in Tanzania and Zimbabwe. With 16 flower farms at different altitudes and geographical locations, each variety can be grown in the perfect spot, and by growing flowers so close to the equator, we ensure

The House of Artz - Silver Lining Studio

a year-round supply of most Marginpar flowers.

A UNIQUE PRODUCT OF NATURE, SIGNED BY OUR PEOPLE.

Agapanthus Twister

NUMBERS & CO. MARGINPAR HAS BEEN SPECIALISING IN THE CREATION OF THE MOST EXTRAORDINARY SUMMER FLOWERS FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS. WE WERE ONE OF THE FIRST TO INTRODUCE FRESH CUT FLOWERS FROM AFRICA TO THE DUTCH FLOWER AUCTIONS.

Established in 1988.

Over 120 varieties of summer flowers.

Year-round production of 300 million stems. Pursuing a 100% sustainable production.

Operating on 2 continents, in 5 countries. 16 flower farms: Marginpar Kenya 7 farms Marginpar Ethiopia 3 farms Tanzania & Zimbabwe 6 partner farms

This adds up to 450 hectares of production land.

Market leader in Eryngium, Clematis, Solidago and Astrantia. We produce

99.9% of all cut Clematis.

800.000 flowers processed daily in our Dutch distribution centre. 75% of our flowers are

sold through the flower auction clocks, 25% to strategic partners in the Netherlands, China, Japan and the US…

...who bring Marginpar flowers to florists all over the world!

We adore our flowers, but... Our people are number one. 5

THE STORY OF M COLOPHON EDITOR IN CHIEF Helena van Achterberg ART DIRECTION Karin van Iterson, Hakijk EDITORIAL STAFF Helena van Achterberg Eva Hegt Joseph Massie - Stella Photography

MARKETING & SALES Michiel van Paassen Jamie den Haan sales@marginpar.nl THE STORY OF M IS A PUBLICATION OF Marginpar BV PO Box 332, 1430 AH, Aalsmeer, Netherlands PRINTWORK Publishers Services BV MORE INFORMATION www.marginpar.com CONTACT US AT Robert Modderkolk - DPK

mail@marginpar.com We would like to thank all our contributors: Paul Heijmink, Sala Lewis, Dmitry Turcan, Molly Ncona, Tokareva Polina, Semen Kuzmin, Alya Nikiforova, Eugene Shipilov, Ekaterina Pozhogina, Anastasia Taranova, Unique Wedding Agency, Eremeev Photography, Vensa Decor, Lupin Design, Wedlighting, Pakhomova, Uliana Skopinova, Mary Kuksa, Makeup Freedom, Polina Kara, Joseph Massie, Stella Photography, DPK Magazine, Robert Modderkolk, Miranda ter Voorde, Meesterlijk Geschikt, Róbert Bartolen, Kulkovský Pavol, Lucáš Moravský, Nicu Bocancea, the floral team at Floraria Iris, Leon Bonte, Danny van Bergen Henegouwen, FM Group, Marc de Haan, Hanneke Frankema, Nico Alsemgeest, Klaus Wagener, the team at BLOOM’s Medien, Nanyuki Primary School, Peter Sinneger, Diana Sinneger, Beyoutiful Bloemen, Jimmy Englund, Pulteney Bridge Flowers, Atelier Penn Foll, Diana Frohmüller Photography, Sylvia Hartmann, Gregor Lersch, Peter J. Kierzkowski, Oydin + Mei Photography, Pascal de Laat, Michelle Lublink, The House Of Artz, Ankii My Vintage Boudoir, Cake Queen, Graze For Days, Ninour, Janneke Scherpenhuyzen, Jordan Hodge, Atelier Edwin Oudshoorn, Mrs. Lake Weddings, Michael & Giso, Marion Bruidshaar en Make-up, Lovely Elysian, Lin Mc Queen Kalligrafie, Wit Photography, Représentable, Private Mansions, Silver Lining Studio, Tiffany the food stylist, Lila Harp, Petra van de Velde, Fleur Bezemer, Monique Désar, Gaitske Jedema and all employees of Marginpar as well as employees of partner farms who have contributed to this publication.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a computerised database, or made public, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical, by photocopying, or in any other way without the prior written consent of Marginpar BV.

6 Robert Modderkolk - DPK

MARGINPAR FLOWERS Our flowers can be divided into three categories: Originals (available year-round and in large numbers), Seasonals (available in certain seasons), and Specials (surprising ‘niche’ flowers in small numbers). We consistently create a unique quality of summer flowers. Always stylish and rich in colour.

Originals are available in large numbers all year round. Both beautiful fillers and exclusive flowers, that have

ORIGINALS

been cultivated with attention to detail.

Aster Dark Milka

Seasonals are summer cut flowers, available in certain seasons only. Because we grow flowers in Africa, where seasons are different than

SEASONALS

the Dutch growing season, we surprise the market at times other growers can’t.

Campanula Champion White

Specials are niche flowers, available in certain seasons and in small numbers. These flowers have a very high

SPECIALS

distinctive character; florists can really distinguish themselves from their competition using our specials.

View our complete flower assortment here: Limonium Anouchka Diamond

INDEX

THE STORY OF M 100 PRACTISING ESG

25 FAIRYTALE SPRING DESIGNS 1

THE STORY OF M

WE LOVE INSTAGRAM

NUMBERS & CO.

OVER THE RAINBOW

COLOPHON

PINK ROMANCE

MARGINPAR FLOWERS

NATURAL BEAUTY

STRENGTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

CLEMATIS SO AMAZING

DECORATING WITH CRASPEDIA PAINTBALLTM POP

THE IMPORTANCE OF CERTIFICATION

THE PERFECT SPOT

CLEMATIS AMAZING® VIENNA BOWL

KENYA

THOUSAND AND ONE NIGHTS

ETHIOPHIA

ORIGINALS, SEASONALS, SPECIALS

INDEX

CONTRIBUTORS

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE

DESIGNING AGAINST GRAVITY

HOW I MADE IT

74 THE MARGINPAR

FOUNDATION

CLEMATIS SO AMAZING

TANZANIA

CREATING SURPRISING

ZIMBABWE

SUMMER FLOWERS.

THE MARGINPAR FOUNDATION

THE QUEST FOR ERYNGIUM QUESTAR®

TOP 10 FLORAL TRENDS 2022

100

MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE

105 110

TOGETHER, EVERY DAY.

76 THE QUEST FOR ERYNGIUM QUESTAR®

4 STYLING TIPS FOR AN INTIMATE WEDDING THE MARGINPAR CULTURE

SPECIALS

POLIANTHES

SNEAK PREVIEW

Polianthes grows in elongated stems with waxy flowers that bloom from the bottom to the top. This new Polianthes Tuberosa variety ‘Elsa’ is a charming one with its single-flowered, trumpet-shaped flowers. Romance at its best.

CONTRIBUTORS DMITRY TURCAN

KLAUS WAGENER

Dmitry Turcan is one of the most recognizable Russianspeaking floral artists. He is an entrepreneur and blogger, founder of an online floristry school and of Turcan Flower Bureau. His students live and work in 50 countries around the world, and Dmitry himself participates in the largest events of the floral world.

Klaus Wagener has many professions: floral designer, trend scout, stylist, teacher, author of books and magazines and the creative head of the German publishing house BLOOM’s Medien. Klaus Wagener is passionate about his work, and that passion radiates on all that he touches.

NICU BOCANCEA GREGOR LERSCH This native German designer has an international reputation among many flower lovers. After winning several competitions, he started teaching floral design in 1978. He has a clear plan to share floral knowledge with designers all over the world. Lersch has written several books on floral design, shares his knowledge on social media and via masterclasses.

Romanian floral artist Nicu Bocancea grew up among flowers. Together with his brother, he runs an event design company and several flower shops, under the brand Floraria Iris. Nicu not only enjoys wowing his customers with beautiful bouquets, but he also brightens up the streets of Bucharest with many pop up floral designs.

PASCAL DE LAAT & MICHELLE LUBLINK HANNEKE FRANKEMA

Pascal de Laat and Michelle Lublink own The House of Artz, a Dutch floral design agency for weddings, events, and styled shoots. They met when they both worked at the same flower shop. Pascal and Michelle teamed up and are now making beautiful floral arrangements for weddings all over Europe.

Hanneke’s distinctive work has won many national and international awards, including winning the Dutch National Championship of floristry in 2018. With a wealth of international experience, Hanneke is a highly sought-after guest arranger, regularly travelling around the world to perform demonstrations, teach, and inspire.

RÓBERT BARTOLEN

JOSEPH MASSIE Joseph Massie is one of Europe’s top floral designers. He was first introduced to the floral world when starting a weekend job in the local flower stall. Now, 15 years later, he has several titles to his name and runs his own flower studio and flower

Róbert Bartolen is a Slovakian florist, teacher, and trend maker for floral media. He also creates large installations for hotels, receptions, and events. His work has been featured in renowned florist magazines around the world, and he won the International Designer of The Year 2019 Award for the magazine Fusion Flowers.

school in Manchester, UK.

Dmitry

Gregor

Nicu

Hanneke

Pascal

Joseph

Michelle

Klaus

Róbert

12 Photo Semen Kuzmin

FromRussia with love HOW DMITRY TURCAN EXPRESSES GRATITUDE TO THE AFRICAN VALUE ADDERS THROUGH A RUSSIAN KOKOSHNIK.

AN INSPIRATOR TO MANY

When I initially proposed the idea of taking a photo

Dmitry Turcan is one of the most recognizable

of a dark-complexioned model in a styled kokoshnik,

Russian-speaking floral artists. He is an entrepreneur

I was told this was a bad idea. There are still very

and blogger - with an audience of more than

many interracial issues in the world, and you may be

420 thousand people on Instagram, whom he inspires

misunderstood.

daily to take up floristry. Founder of the online floristry school Turcan International Flower School and

A SIGN OF GRATITUDE

the Turcan Flower Bureau. His students live and work

But my story is not about nationalities, it is about flowers

in 50 countries around the world, and Dmitry himself

and the people who care for them. Model Molly has

annually participates in the largest events of the floral

become the embodiment of the value adders from East

world.

Africa, where Marginpar cultivates its beautiful flowers, and a crown in the shape of a kokoshnik is a sign of

A FAMILY HEIRLOOM

gratitude for their work. It also serves as a reminder to

A kokoshnik (in Russian: коко́шник) is a Russian piece of

us all, what a long way flowers travel before they reach

headwear for women and has been around since at least

the hands of the buyer.

the 17 century. These family heirlooms were passed down from generation to generation, and were often

THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG

lined with costly fabric, pearls and beads, making them

We often forget how many people are involved in the

very expensive. They were carefully looked after and only

creation of a bouquet. I do not know the names of the

worn a few times a year on important occasions. To this

people who grow, collect and pack flowers, who bring

day, it is an iconic element of Russian culture. There are

them across the world to another continent, where

many different forms and almost every region of Russia

I make a composition of them to send them on to my

had its own local style.

customers. The assembly of a bouquet is a fairly quick process, but this is only the tip of the iceberg, the basis

TELLING A STORY

often remains hidden from the eyes of the customer.

Dmitry: ‘When I was asked to create the cover for the new issue of THE STORY OF MARGINPAR, I decided not

And by telling customers more about the huge amount

only to come up with an interesting floral decor, but to

of work behind the creation of a bouquet, they will better

tell a story with it as well. I chose two models of different

understand its price and value. After all, if I were to

nationalities, who have become icons of employees in

grow flowers myself, with all the challenges that entails,

flower farms around the world.

I would undoubtedly value them many times more highly.

A DELICATE INTERWEAVING OF FLOWERS But my story is not about the heaviness of the work, it is mainly about gratitude. That is why I have made my work easy and at the same time ceremonial. These summer flowers could not have been better suited for this task. The transparency of the composition and the delicate interweaving of flowers without visible attachment points, as well as the inclusions of bright yellow-orange flowers helped to make the image as airy as possible. Obviously, everyone can see something different in my work. I will be happy if these pictures give someone thoughts and insights.’ Connect with Dmitry via Instagram: @dmitryturcan

Molly Ncona - model Tokareva Polina - model Dmitry Turcan - floral design Semen Kuzmin - photographer Alya Nikiforova – producer Eugene Shipilov - video Ekaterina Pozhogina - hair Anastasia Taranova - make-up

16 Clematis Amazing® Tokyo

DESIGNING AGAINST GRAVITY

Joseph Massie JOSEPH MASSIE (33) IS ONE OF EUROPE’S TOP FLORAL DESIGNERS. HE WAS FIRST INTRODUCED TO THE FLORAL WORLD WHEN GETTING A WEEKEND JOB IN THE LOCAL FLOWER STALL. NOW HE HAS SEVERAL TITLES TO HIS NAME AND RUNS HIS OWN FLOWER STUDIO AND FLOWER SCHOOL. THEY ARE BASED IN MANCHESTER, IN THE NORTH WEST OF THE UK. JOSEPH HAS BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY FOR OVER 15 YEARS AND STILL LOVES IT AS MUCH AS WHEN HE STARTED OUT. AND WE LOVE HIS WORK! TIME FOR AN INTERVIEW WITH THE MASTER HIMSELF. DURING YOUR OWN EDUCATION, WHAT TEACHER OR

WE SEE YOU USE A LOT OF SOFT COLOURS

DESIGNER INSPIRED YOU THE MOST?

IN YOUR DESIGNS. WHY IS THAT?

The teachers and designers that inspired me during my

This actually has a couple of different reasons for it.

education are still the teachers and designers that inspire

The first one being that a big part of my business is floral

me today. I am absolutely in love with the work of Daniel

education. We teach a lot of hands on workshops and

Ost from Belgium and Elly Lin from Taiwan. I think their

we also teach a lot of online courses and online seminars

work is incredible and I can’t love them too much. That

et cetera. I have found over the years that it’s far easier

said, I have had a wonderful opportunity to train with

for me to teach using neutral or softer colours especially

some of the best teachers and floral designers and floral

when I am focusing on teaching things such as

artists across the world and I certainly wouldn’t be in

proportions or placements or theory. I find colour can

the position I’m in today without spending time learning

be such an easy distraction for people when they’re

from them.

learning floral design, so a little bit of it has to do with my teaching. I think it’s easier for the students to grasp

DO YOU ALWAYS DRAW OUT DESIGNS BEFORE YOU

more detailed design concepts when colour is not so

START BUILDING OR DO YOU ALSO IMPROVISE?

much in the way, but it also works very well across my

Usually my designs will begin with a sketch. I’m a big fan

whole business. So even though we have a big section of

of sketching out a design simply because I think it helps

our business which is based in floral design education,

clarify my thoughts and intentions about what I envision

I also produce a lot of very beautiful luxury weddings

a piece to look like in the end. That said, I think it’s always

and events for my private clients, for my corporate

good to have a little bit of room for experimentation.

clients and I have found that by keeping a neutral palette

Even if maybe something doesn’t look exactly how

it means that I can use my work and design my designs

I intended when I started out, that’s absolutely fine.

cohesively, and use the imagery and the things I create

I think you always have to leave room for a bit of

across all aspects of my business. So I can use them in

spontaneity in good design.

my teaching and I can use similar images when I’m 17

talking to clients about weddings and designs, and

Chelsea Flower Show in 2009; I will never forget winning

I could also use them in my artwork too so it serves

that. It was like the proudest, happiest day of my life.

a couple of different purposes. CAN YOU EXPLAIN YOUR COMPETITION PROCESS? WOULD YOU SAY YOUR STYLE HAS CHANGED OVER

My competition process was very much all about taking

THE YEARS?

everything that I knew, all my theory and techniques

I would absolutely say that my style has changed over

and experiences, and applying it in the best form to the

the years. When I started out, I grew up doing a lot of

brief. I always felt that competition schedules were very

floral design competitions and so I would really be a little

generous. They tell you very clearly what the judges and

bit of a chameleon. I would change my style to fit the

experts expect of you, and I think over time and with

competition or the brief or the project that I was working

experience I just got pretty good at learning how to

on. After I finished competing, it was a great opportunity

transform what I knew into something that really fit

for me to take a step back and think a lot more about

the brief. It starts off with a lot of sketching, finding

what was actually inside me and what did I want to

inspiration, then experimentation, try and gather ideas,

make and what did I want to create. That has been a

and then of course you begin the preparation and finally

real journey for me, and I’m really happy with the work

the install.

that I make now. NEXT TO RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS AND TEACHING DO YOU NOTICE A BIG DIFFERENCE IN STYLE

CLASSES, DO YOU STILL WISH TO COMPETE?

BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT COUNTRIES YOU HAVE

I don’t know whether I would compete again. I mean

WORKED IN?

never say never. I’d like to think I’m still pretty young,

Absolutely, I think every country across the world has

I’m 33 you know, we’ll see what happens. I’m open to

a huge difference in flowers that are popular, or the

whatever goodness comes my way.

native materials that grow, or how the flowers are presented or maybe techniques that are popular too.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT TEACHING?

I think that’s what makes our industry so rich and so

My absolute favourite thing about teaching floral design

diverse. It’s really exciting to have the opportunity to

is helping to transform students’ mindsets. Someone can

travel and teach in different countries.

come in maybe not knowing so much or feeling a little

DO YOU PREFER GETTING A SPECIFIC REQUEST OR DO YOU PREFER GETTING ARTISTIC FREEDOM FOR A COMMISSION? I always like to have a little bit of information to go on when working with a client but I also do kind of love to bring a lot of different aspects and ideas into a presentation or a commission. So I like a little bit of both; I like to know a little bit about what my client is expecting and anticipating, but I also absolutely love to have a blank page to run from. I don’t think it gets better than that really. WHAT AWARD ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? I think the award that I’m probably most proud of is the five gold medals and the accompanying best in show awards from the Chelsea Flower Show. Specifically though, my very first gold medal and ‘best at show’ at 18 Delphinium Guardian Lavender

19 Astilbe Vision in Pink

Ammi Visnaga ‘Casablanca’

Gypsophila Xlence®

Chasmanthium Latifolium

insecure or a little nervous, and through the process of sharing your knowledge and exploring the creative design process there can be such a transformation. That really is one of the favourite parts of my job, to work hands on

‘My best advice for new floral designers who are just starting

with students.

out is really to enjoy the process.

CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THE WORK

Learn as much as you can, and just

EXPERIENCE LIST YOU HAVE FOR YOUR STUDENTS? Students that are in my flower class membership or maybe the students that have come to my hands-on classes in my school can register for the Work Experience

be as open as possible to any new creative influences’.

List. Whenever we have big weddings or events or exciting installations or projects, we always send out

YOU’VE WORKED WITH MANY MARGINPAR FLOWERS

emails to that work experience list to see if anyone is

OVER THE LAST YEAR. WHICH MARGINPAR FLOWER IS

interested. People are more than welcome to come

YOUR FAVOURITE TO WORK WITH? AND WHY?

along and get stuck in and find out new things and learn

I have been incredibly lucky to work with Marginpar

all different pieces of whatever we’re working on.

flowers over the last year and it is so impossible to pick one favourite, so I’ll tell you a couple of them.

COULD YOU SHARE ONE PIECE OF ADVICE FOR

I absolutely love working with the Marginpar Ammi.

STARTING FLORAL DESIGNERS?

I think it is just the best quality Ammi I have ever seen

My best advice for new floral designers who are just

and whenever I have shared it on my Instagram and

starting out is really to enjoy the process. Learn as

Facebook, the comments are always insane about

much as you can, and just be as open as possible to any

the quality, about how good it looks. It is truly such

new creative influences. I think the world is really at your

a beautiful stand out flower. I also love Clematis

fingertips; you can see so much on social media, so much

Amazing® Tokyo. I think it’s just such an incredible flower

online and there are so many good free resources for

and you get so many blooms on a stem; I think it’s just

students when they’re starting out. So don’t be afraid,

absolutely wonderful. I am also a huge fan of Clematis

get stuck in, it is truly one of the best careers I think

Amazing® Vienna. I got to work with it really early on in

you can have in this life.

the year just when it was coming out. I think it is truly magnificent and I’ve got to say it’s one of my absolute

HOW DO YOU SUGGEST STRUGGLING DESIGNERS

favourites.

FIND INSPIRATION? I think the best inspiration comes when people take

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE SECRET

a break. If you’re really struggling with inspiration,

PROJECT YOU ARE WORKING ON?

walk away from your desk, walk away from your work.

For a little while now I’ve been working on a super-secret

Spend time with friends and family. Spend time in nature,

project. I can’t tell you too much about it but I can tell

relax and get back to the core of what you are doing,

you that some beautiful Marginpar flowers will feature in

what your design ethos is and then from there hopefully

it and I’ll be able to tell you a lot more about it very soon.

you can approach it with fresh eyes on a different day. Not everything works 100% of the time, so you just have

More about Joseph Massie:

to be a little gentle with yourself and take the time to

www.josephmassieflowers.com

work through those inspiration blocks.

and on Instagram @josephmassie Joseph Massie - floral design Stella Photography - photographer 21

JUST LIKE JOSEPH MASSIE

a step-by-step tutorial AFTER SEEING JOSEPH MASSIE’S SKILLS ON THE PREVIOUS PAGES, WE KNOW YOU CAN’T WAIT TO MAKE SOMETHING MAGICAL YOURSELF. WELL, YOU ARE IN LUCK! JOSEPH HAS KINDLY SHARED ONE OF HIS ‘HOW I MADE IT’ TUTORIALS HERE WITH US. Joseph: ‘Sometimes, some flowers sing better when they’re placed with other flowers - I guess that is true of most arrangements, right? Whilst we know that the act of combining blooms can certainly make for a stronger impression on occasion, through my practice I’ve often found that it takes something special, a really charismatic flower, to shine when it is arranged entirely alone. In this design, I’m working with one of my very favourite new flowers of 2021 - Clematis Amazing® Vienna, and of course using only sustainable techniques to create an arrangement that is both statement, yet serene at the very same time.’

LET’S DIVE IN!

What do you need • 1 low bowl, dish, or container • Chicken wire • Paper covered wire • 20 stems Clematis Amazing® Vienna

How I made it: Clematis Amazing® Vienna bowl Begin by selecting your bowl and ensure it is clean and

to shape the chicken wire up into itself, forming a small

dry. Take a sheet of plastic coated chicken wire, and trim

nest to fit within your bowl, and being sure to create

to a size approximately twice the size of the diameter

multiple layers of wire within the nest shape. Place the

of your container. Fold the chicken wire in half, creating

chicken wire nest into the vessel, so it sits level or just

a double layer of chicken wire, for additional strength.

below the rim of your bowl.

Fold the corners of your chicken wire, and gently start

Cut a length of paper covered wire from the roll,

again a second time, securing the wire perpendicular

approximately 1m in length. To secure the chicken wire

to the first, intersecting in the centre of the bowl.

within your container, thread the length of paper covered

The chicken wire will be held snugly in place by the two

wire through the chicken wire, and loop it around, and

pieces of paper covered wire, providing you with a stable

underneath your vessel, bringing the ends back together

base into which you can arrange your flowers. Fill your

on the rim of the vessel. Twist the ends of the wire

vessel approximately one third full with water, to which

together several times to secure. Repeat the process

flower food has been added.

9 23

Start by arranging a few stems into the bowl, with two

At this early stage, don’t worry too much about the exact

stems angled towards the left-, and one lower, towards

position, your key placements or focal areas - Clematis

the right-hand side of the bowl. As we’re aiming for an

stems have some movement to them, so I find it best to

asymmetrical form in this piece, placing our first few

build the form of the design first, and then accent our

stems asymmetrically will assist us as we create this

key placements a little further down the line. For now,

form. Add further stems into the chicken wire, and slowly

focus on building the taller, dominant aspect of the

build up the taller, left-hand side of the arrangement.

design that will later house the 8 and 3 placements

When building mono floral compositions, such as our

within our arrangement.

project today, pay careful attention to the form and the placement of every bloom - there is very much less space

Next add further stems of Clematis into the right-hand

to hide when we are working in such a clean manner.

side of the arrangement, building this aspect lower, around one third the height of the opposing placement.

Stack the Clematis stems one at a time upwards on the

Ensure that you place some blooms through the centre

left-hand side of the bowl, starting low, with bigger, more

of the arrangement too, connecting both placements,

open blooms, and next adding the next stem, slightly

and ensuring harmony throughout the piece.

taller, to sit above the previous stem - doing so will help you build strength into the design, and protect the delicate stems. Finish towards the top of this Clematis tower with your smaller blooms or buds.

Once you’re happy with the asymmetrical form

Tweak and place the final blooms until you are happy

you’ve created add in a few key, focal blooms into the

with the final result. Once finished, cut the paper covered

arrangement to reinforce the 3:5:8 placements within

wire near to the base of your vessel, and pull it slowly

the design. In this design, I’ve opted for my dominant

out of the chicken wire arrangement. Repeat again with

placement (8) to sit low in the bowl by placing my largest

the second piece of paper covered wire, and the resulting

flowers within this area. On the left-hand side, my

arrangement will sit beautifully within your vessel, with

contrasting placement (5) sits higher, with slightly

no mechanics visible.

smaller, yet still significant blooms on the right of the bowl, and to finish my sub-dominate placement (3) to

Top up the bowl with fresh water, and enjoy.

sit near to the top of the bowl, again on the left.

Hungry for more? Explore a whole world of floral design at www.learnjosephmassie.com

26 Decorative and airy

Design Róbert Bartolen Photographer BcA. Lukáš Moravský

THOUSAND-AND-ONE NIGHTS FAIRYTALE SPRING DESIGNS WITH JATROPHA FIRECRACKER RÓBERT BARTOLEN

Jatropha Firecracker is one of our more unusual flowers.

Decorative and airy

She is nicknamed ‘the flower that looks like coral’,

The bouquet on the left is round and perfectly balanced.

and it’s easy to see why. At Marginpar, we can certainly

This piece gives you a little taste of Clematis Amazing®

appreciate flowers that differ. Someone who can too is

Sevilla, to be officially introduced in 2022. Róbert was

designer Róbert Bartolen, from Slovakia. You could even

one of the first designers to test this new variety and

call his style a bit ‘unusual’. After all, the usual is also a bit

loved it. The contrasting colours of the Jatropha and

boring, isn’t it? And what Róbert makes is anything but.

Sevilla work particularly well together.

Do not be afraid of heights or widths

Elegant yet playful

Róbert Bartolen uses different techniques to make the

On the next page, a boho bouquet with tulips and

most of the natural shape and characteristics of a flower.

Jatropha, creating an elegant yet playful design.

By creating layers, and not being afraid to put flowers

The base shape is a triangle, which spreads the

that you would normally not use on their own in the

attention over three different corners of the bouquet.

spotlights. Róbert: ‘Look at how the plant behaves in

The distinctive shape of Jatropha and the flowing stems

nature. Combine heavier and lighter flowers in the right

of the tulips enhance the playfulness.

proportions to create natural layers. Do not be afraid of heights or widths. After all, nature is most beautiful

The Dutch Master

without limitations.’

An oval flower column in a solitary design, one-of-a-kind. The flowers seek contact with the observer, there is

A thousand-and-one nights

a play with light and the fleetingness of the flowers

In spring, his designs become lighter and the colours

becomes apparent. This design reminds us of paintings

brighter. The fiery red Jatropha almost jumps out of

by the old Dutch Masters. Van Gogh, Vermeer or

these designs. For Róbert it is not only about the design,

Balthasar van der Ast would have enjoyed painting a

but also about the right lighting and setting. A Middle

still life like this…

Eastern touch has been added to the photography in these next works; they would look perfectly at home in

Simply complicated

a palace from the thousand-and-one-night stories of

Last, combined with freesia, the Jatropha seems to ‘grow’

the Persian Sheherazade.

very naturally in the vase. A natural boho look that looks simpler than it really is. This is certainly aided by the

Let us carry you away on a Persian carpet towards

variation in stem lengths. The orange and red shades

the Sultan’s Palace in three styles: decorative, boho,

radiate passion, love, and fire. The ideal choice for those

and solitary.

burning of romance. Love these designs? There is more! Visit marginpar.com/stories for additional fairytale creations. 27

Elegant yet playful

Nature is most beautiful without limitations

The Dutch Master

RÓBERT BARTOLEN Photographer Kulkovský Pavol

Róbert Bartolen is a Slovakian florist, floral design

in 2019. Shapes, lines and structures characterise

teacher, event designer, trend maker for florist media

Róbert’s work. The identity of the area he comes from

and Floral Fundamentals Ambassador. He loves to create

is reflected in his works; the Slavic theme is a frequent

‘objects’ and is regularly employed to create installations

source of inspiration.

in some very interesting locations. Róbert’s work has been published in renowned florist magazines all over the world. He has won several awards, including Designer of The Year for Fusion Flowers magazine

More about Róbert Bartolen? @Robert_Bartolen

Simply complicated 31

SPECIALS

LIMONIUM

SCARLET

DIAMOND

This beautiful branching Limonium variety is full of small papery flowers in pink and yellow shades. The fine branching structure and fragile flowers give it an exclusive, delicate and playful appearance. In the eighties, this flower was often used in dried bouquets. A trend that is totally back again now. The name Limonium comes from Leimon (Greek) and means meadow. Originally, the plant grew mainly by the sea, 32

in a salty meadow.

INSTAGRAM

We love seeing our flowers in beautiful designs all over

SHARE YOUR LOVE OF FLOWERS

Instagram. Nicu Bocancea, who is a Floral Fundamentals

Use @Marginpar or @Clematisamazing

ambassador, is one of the designers that surprises us

when you use our flowers in your designs!

again and again. His playful and extraordinary designs just bring so much joy, not just to us but also to his

Like what you see? Follow Nicu on his personal

thousands of followers.

and business Instagram: @nicubocancea @florariairis

SPECIALS

SCUTELLARIA

TINKERBELL

The sturdy green branches, full of striking seed pods in different shades of green seem almost machine-made due to the beautiful design, arrangement, and shape. The combination of dark and light shades works beautifully with other flowers in bouquets and the lack of foliage at the base makes Scutellaria ‘Tinkerbell’ an easy flower to work with. 34

GET INSPIRED BY MARGINPAR!

We have so many beautiful stories to tell, pictures to share and inspiration to give. Don’t miss out! Follow us on:

FACEBOOK.COM/MARGINPAR

INSTAGRAM.COM/MARGINPAR TWITTER.COM/MARGINPAR PINTEREST.COM/MARGINPAR

LINKEDIN.COM/COMPANY/MARGINPAR

WWW.MARGINPAR.COM

Rather have the latest news delivered to your inbox? Subscribe to our monthly newsletter via

WWW.MARGINPAR.COM/NEWS 35

OVER THE RAINBOW Vase Rainbow (set of 4) 34 cm COCO Maison

Solidago Carzan Glory ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM

Rainbow dress

Yogigo flow travel

multi-coloured

yoga mat

178 x 61 cm Yogigo

Eryngium Supernova Questar® ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM

Astrantia Roma® 36

ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM

Rainbow money box 5.5 x 18 x 11 cm Hema

Commuter yoga mat 178 x 61 cm Yoga Design Lab

Delphinium Blue Donna ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM

Rainbow cutlery set

Gloriosa Superba Simba Fifty Shades

24 pieces

SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

HOBO

Rainbow drip old skool sneakers Vans Jatropha Firecracker SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

PINK ROMANCE

Side table Kare armchair

40 x 32 x 44 cm

63 x 95 x 78 cm

Fest

Kare Design

Throw pillow 50 x 70 x 23 cm Riverdale Clematis Amazing® Sevilla SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

Polianthes Pink Sapphire SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

Limonium Princess Diamond SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

Campanula Champion Pink SEASONALS MARGINPAR.COM

Armchair Marjon 86 x 110 x 96 cm Heart-shaped mirror

EPM

Ø 30 cm VTwonen Scabiosa Focal ScoopTM Hot Pink SEASONALS MARGINPAR.COM

NATURAL BEAUTY Fyn ‘Taupe’ 43 x 26,5 x 12 cm Kapten & Son

Limonium China White SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

Craspedia PaintballTM Pop ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM Panicum Heavy Metal SEASONALS MARGINPAR.COM

Duvet cover 140 x 200 cm La Redoute

Clematis Amazing® Vienna Wall circle

SPECIALS MARGINPAR.COM

Ø 40 cm Sweet living

Dip glazed mug 350 ml Sass & Belle

Pillow Lou 40 x 60 x 18 cm Riverdale

Vase AVAJI 23 x 22 x 16 cm Nordal

Miscanthus Red Cloud ORIGINALS MARGINPAR.COM

STRENGTH THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS

Why we opt for strategic partnerships rather than a Marginpar web shop for all.

MARGINPAR FLOWERS FIND THEIR WAY TO HAPPY CUSTOMERS ALL OVER THE WORLD IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS. WE ARE SO LUCKY THAT FLORISTS EVERYWHERE USE AND LOVE OUR FLOWERS! WE REGULARLY GET CALLS FROM FLORISTS AND BUYERS WHO WOULD LIKE TO BUY DIRECTLY FROM OUR WEB SHOP. WE CAN HEAR YOU THINKING: ‘WHAT, THERE IS A WEB SHOP?!’. WELL, NO. SORRY TO DISAPPOINT YOU, BUT WE DO NOT HAVE OUR OWN POINT OF SALE. WE HAVE MADE A CONSCIOUS CHOICE NOT TO. WHY IS THAT? The auction clock Marginpar is strongly auction clock-oriented, it is where

vision; with whom we will become stronger together.

we build market for our flowers and sell around 75% of

We like to work with partners who fit well with the

our flowers on a daily basis. We divide our supply among

Marginpar philosophy.

six flower auctions: five in the Netherlands (Royal FloraHolland Aalsmeer, Naaldwijk, Rijnsburg & Eelde

Marginpar strives to achieve the widest possible reach

and Auction Plantion) and one in Germany (Auction

among florists in the larger European markets. Our first

Rhein Maas). The auction clock is very important to us;

focus is therefore on reaching florists in Germany, the

it is a pure form of supply and demand. There is a large

UK and the Benelux. We look for cooperation with sales

buying public, including wholesalers, who supply

partners who excel in these markets. They know how to

the florists. The clock is a good instrument for

optimally serve the florist. Together, we will ensure that

transparency and insight into the market potential.

our flowers are widely available in these markets.

Moreover, the distribution system behind the clock is still very strong. Every day, we bring a considerable volume to the clock, which amounts to some 7,000 to 8,000 transactions per day and buyers receive their flowers in a short time frame. We would never be able to do that ourselves. Direct sales Many trade exporters experience high pressure on their logistics at peak times. The distribution of clock purchases takes place after the auction. We therefore see an increase in the demand for direct sales, where the time of delivery can be planned at a more favourable moment (usually early in the morning). 25% of all Marginpar’s flowers is sold directly to our strategic partners, distributed either from our distribution centre in Aalsmeer or via direct export from the flower farms in Africa to Japan, China, and the US. The key word here is ‘strategic’. At Marginpar, we are not looking for customers, but for strategic partners who fit into our 43

Strategic partnerships One of our strategic partners is the FM Group. The FM Group buys flowers from growers to distribute them around the world; both directly to florists, and to wholesalers. In this article Leon Bonte (purchasing manager) and Danny van Bergen Henegouwen (purchasing director), who have both been in the company for 30 years, tell us about the processes and challenges of being a full-service partner to florists around the world. Who are they? At first glance, purchasing and selling flowers might seem like a straightforward job. However, we’ve now learned that it takes a village. Quite literally; they employ more than 2000 people, who together enable the process to keep going almost 24/7. They supply several target groups: wholesale, retail and florists. Parent company FM Group has many different labels, including FleuraMetz with its many Cash & Carries in the UK, Germany, France and America, but also Flying Dutch Flowers, for example, aimed at the event florist. Complexity at its finest Orders are processed at different locations; from full barrels with one product to special crates with different bunches and decoration materials for florists. The complexity and level of service is incredibly high. Continuity is key 80% of the purchases are made directly from preferred suppliers. Danny: ‘These are growers with whom we really enter into a partnership and with whom we want to grow together, such as Marginpar.’ With a standing order, FM Group receives an agreed upon number of flowers each day - for a set price. ‘‘We don’t constantly switch suppliers just because we can save a few cents; we prefer cooperation and continuity.’ ‘It is extremely important as a web shop customer that you know what to expect, our customers appreciate that. Together with our preferred suppliers, Marginpar being one of them, we also look for opportunities. We look 44

Clematis Amazing® flower box - photographed by FM Group

at what we can do better, and we set collective goals. This helps us all move forward. In addition to the fixed purchases, we ensure that we keep some flexibility for day sales, but the basis is always there so that our customers never miss out on their favourite flowers.’ Our partnership Let’s dive into the special partnership between FM Group and Marginpar. This strategic partnership was established in 2018. Before then, FM Group always bought Marginpar flowers at the auction. A standing order was a wish for both parties and the partnership has been working out very well. Leon: ‘Our cooperation is so successful because of the people who sit around the table.’

‘Our ideas connect seamlessly.’ ‘Just like Marginpar, we strongly believe in working together. If people fit well together then they can achieve great things. The same applies to companies. And we have really found each other. The cooperation with Marginpar has also taught us a lot about how we want to cooperate with other growers. We now want to use the phenomenon of standing orders, i.e. making agreements for a longer period, with more of our preferred suppliers. Of course, this requires supply security, continuity and reliability. So it can’t be done with just any grower.’ Mutual concern for sustainability Our values match very well. For FM Group sustainability is a given, just like it is for Marginpar. Danny: ‘Before the end of this year we will inform our preferred suppliers about which certifications will soon become a must. If growers are unwilling or unable to invest in this, it would unfortunately mean the end of the collaboration. Even though there is not yet a real demand for sustainability from our customers, we consider it important ourselves. We want to make sure that people can always and only buy sustainably grown flowers here. You can’t ignore it anymore; it would be weird not to invest in sustainability.’

Clematis So Amazing EXCLUSIVELY BY MARGINPAR CLEMATIS IS MOSTLY KNOWN AS A CLIMBING GARDEN PLANT. CURIOSITY AND DETERMINATION CAUSED A DEVELOPMENT THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING: CLEMATIS AMAZING®: A SERIES SPECIFICALLY DEVELOPED FOR THE CUT FLOWER MARKET. THESE AIRY, ROMANTIC FLOWERS WITH STURDY, FLEXIBLE STEMS ARE NOW LOVED BY FLORISTS ALL OVER THE WORLD.

Clematis Amazing® Blue Pirouette

Clematis Amazing® Inspiration

IT’S AN ART! The breeding and developing of new varieties is no piece of cake. Especially with a Clematis. Only 0.01% of all seedlings makes it to the final selection. The process takes over a decade, and before any new variety is introduced it has to meet our strict selection requirements, like an excellent vase life (10 to 14 days minimum), strong stems and an exclusive appearance not seen before. We only want the best, so our clients can surprise their customers again and again with the Clematis Amazing® series. To do so, we work closely together with our breeder Van Zoest for new varieties.

47 Clematis Amazing® Geneva

on a regular basis. Future plans for the Clematis Amazing® family include more variety in shape and colours (both bold and pastel), bigger flowers and stronger stems. For the latest news, follow @Clematis.Amazing on Instagram or Facebook.

NOTHING IS AS IT SEEMS The Clematis has a delicate look, but don’t be fooled by her fragile appearance. The Clematis Amazing® series is bred with very sturdy flower petals and a high resistance to botrytis, a fungus that can affect flowers and plants during growth and transport.

THE PERFECT STAGE OF RIPENESS The Clematis Amazing® series is intentionally harvested with two slightly opened flowers (with the four-flowered

Clematis Amazing® Rome

varieties). Extensive testing shows that a riper harvested Clematis has a longer vase life. The longer a flower grows

NEW VARIETIES

on the plant, the more energy it receives. That energy

In 2006 Marginpar introduced the Clematis Amazing®

results in bigger and stronger flowers.

Blue Pirouette as the first Clematis cut flower at Royal FloraHolland flower auction. Many new varieties have

AVAILABILITY

been added since. From lilac to pink, deep purple to

The Clematis Amazing® series is grown at our flower

white, star-shaped to fuzzy… New varieties are expected

farms in Kenya, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. Growing

in 2022, such as the first bicoloured Clematis cut flower:

flowers close to the equator, in a warm climate,

Amazing® Sevilla and a new soft seed head variety that

makes them available year-round. We love our Clematis,

looks out of this world. Marginpar is keen on

but she is not an easy flower to grow. The plants require

innovation of summer flowers, new varieties are trialed

quite a lot of maintenance, some more than others.

name

availability

length in cm

flowers per stem

VBN

Blue Pirouette

Original

50/60/70

25745

Inspiration

Original

50/60/70

109538

Star River

Original

60/70

112515

London

Original

60/70

116696

Geneva

Special

60/70

116899

Rome

Original

60/70

117009

Oslo

Original

50/60

117969

Miami

Special

60/70

120794

Kibo

Original

60/70

122544

Tokyo

Special

122545

Havana

Special

50/60

122788

Vienna

Special

50/60

125769

Sevilla

Special

60/70

125799

Plus, some varieties grow fast, while others take their time in the field. To simplify things, we subcategorized the series in Original and Special. Originals have the best availability and the highest volumes. Specials are very niche; available in small volumes and in certain seasons.

HOW MANY FLOWERS? Some Clematis Amazing® varieties have one big flower on top, while others have four or even six flowers per stem. Why is that? Every Clematis starts out with five or more flowers per stem: one on top and four on the side branches. During the development process we look for the best ratio between stem and flower. Some varieties look better with four flowers, while others look better with a single flower on top. During the growth, we pinch and remove the head bud of the varieties that look their best with four flowers. If the ornamental value is higher with one big flower, we leave all buds. The plant will put all her energy in the top flower, making it larger than the secondary buds. This process makes the varieties with one flower extra-large, since all the energy is focused on that one bud instead of four. An exception is the Clematis Amazing® Tokyo. This special variety is extra powerful and makes six large buds per stem. Further information can be found on the Clematis Amazing® website. And while you are there, don’t forget to download the free Clematis Amazing® Guide. A special gift with everything you need to know about these amazing flowers!

49 Clematis Amazing® Havana

Clematis Amazing® Star River

Clematis Amazing® London

Clematis Amazing® Oslo

Clematis Amazing® Tokyo

Clematis Amazing® Miami

Clematis Amazing® Vienna

Clematis Amazing® Kibo

Clematis Amazing® Sevilla

Floral Designer Hanneke Frankema, Dutch Championship of floristry 2018, characterized by her use of colour, avant-garde techniques, and unfailing eye for detail made this series of designs for the Clematis Amazing® Guide. Captured beautifully by photographer Nico Alsemgeest.

Curious how a Clematis changes from bud to full bloom? Watch the time lapse videos here!

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CLEMATIS AMAZING® SERIES!

CLEMATIS AMAZING® IS LOVED BY FLORISTS ALL OVER THE WORLD. LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! FOLLOW OUR SOCIALS AND DOWNLOAD THE SPECIAL GUIDE ON OUR WEBSITE.

EXCLUSIVE BY

FACEBOOK.COM/CLEMATISAMAZING

INSTAGRAM.COM/CLEMATIS.AMAZING WWW.MARGINPAR.COM/CLEMATIS-AMAZING 52

SPECIALS

TALINUM

‘LONG JOHN’

ard Aw

Winner

en Tu l laz G

2021

Nicknamed ‘Jewels of Opar’, this gem with intriguing seed pods gives your bouquets that little bit extra. Loved by florists and the professional jury of Royal FloraHolland, who selected Talinum ‘Long John’ as winner of the ‘Glass Tulip Award’ for best innovation. Whoohoo!

DECORATING WITH CRASPEDIA PAINTBALL TM POP This vibrant ball of beauty lends itself perfectly for home decor. The spheres are made up of many small flowers. The longer the stem, the larger the heads. So if you want the biggest one there is, get the 80 cm stems. Craspedia brings colour and lightness into your home and it dries beautifully, so you will get to enjoy it for a long long time. We are excited to show you some beautiful designs with Craspedia PaintballTM Pop in the lead. You can also try and recreate them; you’ll find a step by step instruction at the end!

PART OF THE VASE Even without an eye-catching vase, you can create an impressive piece of decoration. Tie several stems of Craspedia around the narrow vase with a rubber band. Hide the rubber bands with a string, fill with water and add other flowers such as Clematis and Scutellaria.

Flowers featured in this article: Craspedia Paintball™ Pop Clematis Amazing® Vienna Clematis Amazing® Kibo Scutellaria ‘Tinkerbell’ Miscanthus White Cloud Panicum Northwind Ornithogalum White Star™ Daucus Carota ‘Dara’ Chasmanthium Latifolium Limonium China Summer (all Marginpar) 54

WELCOME HOME An embroidery frame serves as the basis for this decorative idea. Individual stems of Craspedia are fixed to the frame with paper winding wire. Then, Miscanthus, Panicum and Chasmanthium are woven in. Tie on a wide ribbon in a matching colour to hang it up, for instance at your front door.

PLAYFUL BALANCE This design seems to stabilise itself like Mikado sticks. The basic framework is formed by Craspedia stems connected with paper winding wire. Clematis, Ornithogalum, Daucus and Scutellaria are worked into them and fixed with wire where needed.

ROUND AND ROUND WE GO Completely natural, yet artistically designed. The base is a straw wreath, decorated with bark fibres, vines and Mulberry bark. A braid of Raffia brings playful lightness to the work, while Craspedia and Limonium add colour.

WOVEN IN This decoration radiates pure cosiness! Just like in the old days, an old weaving frame filled with Craspedia, Miscanthus, Scutellaria, twigs and wool woven in between the strings. The subtle play of colours in the tapestry rightly attracts all eyes. Make one yourself with this step by step!

SUPPLIES • String • Scissors • Craspedia PaintballTM Pop (approximately 50) • Scutellaria ‘Tinkerbell’ (approximately 10) • Miscanthus White Cloud (approximately 10) • Two twigs • Wool • Wooden board

Step 6 Continue weaving rows of Miscanthus, Scutellaria and Craspedia stems and wool until you reach the bottom of BLOOM’s

the board. Cut off stems protruding too far to the sides.

Step 1

Step 7

Wrap 8-10 strings around the length of your board, and

Finish off with a strong twig.

tie at the back. Distribute them evenly over the width. These vertical strings are called the ‘warp’.

Step 8 Cut the strings at the back of the board and tie each

Step 2

set of adjacent strings at the top and bottom, right at

Weave a twig through the ropes at the top of the board

the twig. At the top, tie all strings together to be able

by going under and over each vertical string. The twig

to hang it on the wall.

will be a strong base for your design. Voila, you have created your own natural tapestry, Step 3

find a nice place to hang it and enjoy!

You can now start weaving in your first group of flower stems, like Scutellaria ‘Tinkerbell’ in this design.

Would you rather follow along a video,

Two stems are used, each facing in the opposite

you can find it here:

direction. Make sure to alternate going over or under the first string between each row. After weaving, push the stems towards the top of the board to secure them. Step 4 To create a cosy decoration, you can add in materials like wool. Weave strokes of wool into the warp in the same

With thanks to Klaus Wagener and his team from BLOOM’s Deco

way as the flower stems.

for the designs.

Step 5 Craspedia PaintballTM Pop is the star in this design. So use around 8-12 stems per row of Craspedia to give them the attention they deserve.

THE IMPORTANCE OF

CERTIFICATION

Phlox Icecap

Certification is becoming increasingly important. Consumers want to know where the flowers come from, and what path they have travelled. Marginpar fully endorses this and, as a member, supports the sustainability initiative FSI2025. FSI stands for Floriculture Sustainability Initiative, which strives for a sustainable production of 90% for all plants and flowers. We aim to achieve a 100% sustainable production for all our flowers. Certification is an important step towards achieving this. All Marginpar owned farms are certified; Marginpar Ethiopia holds the MPS certificate, and all our Kenyan flower farms have obtained the KFC Silver certificate and GLOBALG.A.P.

KENYA

certification. The MPS certificate is a unique global

The KFC Silver certificate is based on environmental

standard and works as a benchmark in demonstrating

and socio-economic principles which ensure certified

to what extent our operations are environmentally

producers foster sustainable, responsible and safe

friendly. There are three different levels, MPS-A, MPS-B

production of cut flowers and ornamentals. The Standard

and MPS-C. MPS-A certified is the most environmentally

covers good agricultural practice, human resource

friendly. MPS-SQ stands for ‘Socially Qualified’ and

management and workers welfare, good governance,

focusses on Health & Safety, and good working

health & safety, environmental protection & conservation,

conditions. In addition to the MPS certificate, Marginpar

and post-harvest management.

Ethiopia holds an EHPEA qualification; for a sustainable social and environmental development in the floriculture

Over the next few years, our Kenyan farms are also

sector.

aiming for KFC Gold certification. Silver is compulsory for all members of The Kenya Flower Council, while

TANZANIA

gold is voluntary for producers who meet additional

We are proud to report that our partner farms in

clauses in the standard.

Tanzania - Bondeni Flowers, Bondeni Machame and Michiru - are now also MPS-ABC and MPS-SQ certified,

GLOBALG.A.P. is a trademark and a set of standards

with a great A+ score. We have been working together

for good agricultural practices (G.A.P.) for safe,

with these farms since 2002, which are located in unique

sustainable agriculture worldwide. The GLOBALG.A.P.

places near Kilimanjaro. The climate of northern

Flowers & Ornamentals Standard covers: Propagation

Tanzania is particularly good for our Clematis Amazing®

Material, Soil and Substrate Management, Fertilizer

series, the Jatropha Firecracker, Talinum, Polianthes,

Use, Plant Protection Product, Harvesting as well as

Miscanthus, Chasmanthium and Gloriosa.

Post-Harvest Treatments. ZIMBABWE ETHIOPIA

Our partner farms in Zimbabwe are in the process

Marginpar Ethiopia has MPS-ABC and MPS-SQ

of MPS certification and will follow soon.

59 Photo Sala Lewis

The perfect spot PRIME LOCATIONS UNDER THE AFRICAN SUN MARGINPAR GROWS MORE THAN 120 VARIETIES OF SUMMER FLOWERS ON 16 DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATIONS AND ALTITUDES. THIS MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO GROW EVERY FLOWER IN THE PERFECT SPOT. WE HOLD 7 LOCATIONS IN KENYA, 3 LOCATIONS IN ETHIOPIA, COOPERATE CLOSELY WITH 3 PARTNER FARMS IN TANZANIA AND 3 PARTNER FARMS IN ZIMBABWE. IN THE NETHERLANDS, NEXT TO THE FLOWER AUCTION, WE HAVE A HEADQUARTERS WHERE OUR FLOWERS ARRIVE TO BE CHECKED, CUT, AND PREPARED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO VARIOUS FLOWER AUCTIONS AND SALES PARTNERS. IT ALSO HOUSES VARIOUS DIVISIONS SUCH AS SALES, MARKETING, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT, FINANCE, ETC. WE EMPLOY ALMOST 4000 PEOPLE WITHIN THE MARGINPAR GROUP, AND OUR PARTNER FARMS COUNT FOR AN ADDITIONAL 1000 PEOPLE. THAT’S 5000 PEOPLE WHO PUT A LOT OF PATIENCE, CARE, AND LOVE INTO OUR FLOWERS.

KENYA

ETHIOPIA

TANZANIA

ZIMBABWE

The benefits of growing on and around the equator

period’ on the farms. On average, the strength of the sun

Around 75% of our production derives from flower farms

is greatest on the equator. Another peculiarity is that

situated on or close to the equator. Why is that?

the day and night around the equator are almost equally long. This combination of favourable growing conditions

The equator is a line of latitude on the surface of the

makes our flowers grow long and strong.

earth in the form of a great circle midway between the poles. The equator divides the Earth into a Northern

The production on the north (Ethiopia) and south

Hemisphere and a Southern Hemisphere.

(Zimbabwe & Tanzania) of the equator complement the production on the equator (Kenya) with excellent

On the equator, the sun always shines from almost

quality and volumes of flowers in peak demand periods.

directly above. Therefore, on the equator it is generally

The Zimbabwean quality and volumes are exceptional in

warm and there is little seasonal variation. However,

the European autumn, and this is similar for the volumes

there is often a wet and a dry season. That is why our

and quality from Ethiopia in the European spring.

supply is highest during the European winters, the ‘dry

Marginpar Kenya embodies seven flower farms spread over several regions. Each region has its own characteristics that contribute to the perfect growing climate for our flowers. Located in the Thika region, Kariki Juja farm covers 22 hectares of cultivated land. It lies at an altitude of approximately 1,600 meters and produces Hypericum, Clematis Amazing® series, Asters and Solidago. Bondet farm covers 25 hectares of cultivated area and is located in Nanyuki. At an altitude of about 2,100 meters, Bondet produces the Astrantia Star®, Hypericum Flair® and Eryngium Questar® series. At Kudenga farm, in the Molo region, 42 hectares are cultivated. At an altitude of 2,700 metres, Kudenga is currently one of the highest situated flower farms in Kenya. It grows the Eryngium Questar® series, Gypsophila Xlence®, Helleborus, Astilbe, Ornithogalum, and the Astrantia Star® series.

Located along the Kinangop road in Naivasha at an altitude of approximately 2,100 meters, is the Kariki Naivasha farm. This site was established in 2006 and merged with the adjacent farm in 2021. Kariki Naivasha mainly produces Hypericum Flair®, Eryngium Questar®, Agapanthus, Gypsophyla Xlence® and several Delphinium varieties on 42 hectares of cultivated land. KS Farm is located near Rongai, Nakuru. It covers 64 hectares of cultivated land. Solidago, Gypsophilla, Campanula, Hypericum and Limonium are grown at an altitude of 1910 meters. In the area of Muchorwe, Molo, the MR farm is located. The farm covers 13 hectares of cultivated land. Scabiosa, Craspedia and Eryngium Questar® are grown here at an altitude of 2,700 meters. ST Farm is located near Sobea, Nakuru, at an altitude of 1970 meters. It includes 22 hectares of cultivated land filled with Solidago, Hypericum Flair®, Eryngium Questar® and Limonium.

Marginpar Ethiopia covers 60 hectares of cultivated area, spread out over three production sites, located near Holeta, west of the capital Addis Ababa (‘New Flower’), at an altitude of 2,500 meters.

Marginpar Ethiopia PLC is located 9 km from Holeta, with a total landholding of 36 hectares. Here we mainly grow the Eryngium Questar® varieties, the Astrantia Star® series, Alchemilla and Campanula. L’Arca Investment PLC is sited in almost the same area, 4 km from Holeta on the way to Marginpar Ethiopia farm. It covers 24 hectare and produces mainly Eryngium Questar® varieties, Daucus and Campanula. Simba Horticulture PLC is the newest site located nearby the two others. Currently we are developing the last 5 hectares to reach over 16 hectares out of the total available 22. This farm produces mainly Eryngium Questar® varieties and Agapanthus.

68 Marginpar Ethiopia

Nestled in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, you will find our Tanzanian partner farms: Bondeni Flowers (which includes Bondeni Main and Bondeni Machame) and Michiru. The warm climate is perfect for various warmth loving crops, such as Jatropha, Polianthes and Gloriosa. Bondeni Flowers and Michiru both specialise in the cultivation of cut Clematis, which thrive in this part of the world thanks to the high day and night temperatures. The mountainous location is also a plus. There is also an abundance of water nearby, with the Pangani River flowing from Kilimanjaro to the Indian Ocean. 69

The farms are as keen on innovation as we are and strive for the best. We are proud to say that their MPS status is A+. In the process of achieving this status, they have attracted thousands of bees to the farms, which in turn help improve the ecosystem. One of their goals is to set up a beehive and start keeping bees of their own. Other goals include using more organic pesticides, installing more solar panels and implementing the Kaizen philosophy.

Bondeni Main currently grows Clematis Amazing® Blue Pirouette, Inspiration, London, Havana and our special beauty Clematis Amazing® Vienna. Next to that, the Glass Tulip winner Talinum ‘Long John’ is grown here, all on 11 hectares of cultivated area. Bondeni Machame farm covers 40 hectares of cultivated area and is located just outside of Moshi. Bondeni Machame produces the unique Jatropha ‘Firecracker’, Polianthes Tuberosa Pink Sapphire, Miscanthus White & Red Cloud, Chasmanthium, Panicum and several of the Clematis Amazing® varieties: Rome, Kibo, Tokyo, Miami, Inspiration, London and Geneva. Just next to Bondeni Flowers, but located more to the west of Kilimanjaro, is Michiru Farm. 11 Hectares are cultivated. Varieties from the Clematis Amazing® series (Clematis Amazing® Star River and Clematis Amazing® Oslo) are grown here as well as the Gloriosa Fifty Shades series and Scutellaria ‘Tinkerbell’. This farm is busy developing the Asclepias Heron Series.

More than three decades ago, this is where the Marginpar story began: Zimbabwe. Marginpar started here in 1988, as an agency for vegetable growers, which changed pretty quickly into an agency for flower growers. The Marginpar flower brand was born. Eryngium and Hypericum were the first plants imported from the Netherlands to Zimbabwe. Never before had they set roots in African soil. At its peak in 2003, Marginpar B.V. accommodated 25 growers in Zimbabwe. Due to political unrest and the wish for year-round production, Marginpar started looking at other production countries. Today, there are three partner farms in Zimbabwe that grow Marginpar flowers under licence. 73

Tsanga Flora farm covers 18 hectares of cultivated area and is located in Juliasdale, near the foothills of the Nyanga Mountains at an altitude of 1,800 meters. The farm specialises in the cultivation of Astrantia Roma® and Eryngium Questar® varieties. Dombera flowers is located in the Chimanimani Mountains in Zimbabwe, near the border with Mozambique, at an altitude of 1,400 meters. This farm produces Eryngium Supernova Questar® on 8 hectares of cultivated area. Sunshine Flowers is a Marginpar grower of the first hour, the two companies have a long history together. This flower farm, with 8 hectares of cultivated area, is located next to the International Airport in Harare. They mainly produce the Clematis Amazing® and Eryngium Questar® series. Next to growing flowers, they also run a sanctuary for wild animals: ‘Wild is Life’.

WILD IS LIFE Helping others flows through the veins of our people. The owners of one of our partner farms in Zimbabwe, Sunshine Flowers, have also set up Wild is Life. This is a wildlife sanctuary just outside Harare, and is home to orphaned elephants, lions, cheetahs and many more animals. Since the establishment of the sanctuary in 1998, they have rehabilitated over 300 animals of 18 different species. In 2012, Wild is Life was expanded with the ZEN project. This is a place where orphaned elephant calves are given a second chance at life in the wild. First, the calves are nursed back to health in the facility near Harare International Airport. Then, the rehabilitation process starts, and after about 5 years they are ready to move to the rewilding facility in Victoria Falls. This is a protected area of 34,000 hectares where the elephants learn the tricks and trades of being wild elephants, so that they can reintegrate into the wild. There are currently 13 elephants in rehabilitation at the ZEN sanctuary. www.zimbabweelephantnursery.com

SNEAK PREVIEW THE MARGINPAR FOUNDATION MAKING A DIFFERENCE TO EVERYDAY LIFE You have heard us say it many times: our people are our number one priority. They are the foundation of our organisation and the foundation of the surrounding communities. Empowering people is not something we only put into practice on the farms, it goes far beyond the farm gates.

We support the creation of strong communities to grow stronger people. Practical support What does that mean? Well, for example: we help build

are collected and mixed, so that florists can buy mixed

schools and extra classrooms, we improve roads and

flower buckets instead of the mono buckets that we

infrastructure, and we create free water points for the

normally supply. This is especially interesting for the

community. We’ve been doing this, and more, for years,

smaller florist, who does not need 50 stems of the same

and in 2022, we’ll be supporting these community

product. Our fantastic breeders have generously donated

projects through our own Marginpar Foundation.

their royalties from the mix. All proceeds of the mixes go

This foundation will participate and invest in local

to the Marginpar Foundation.

projects in communities connected to our farms. What’s next? It’s all in the mix

Link up with us on Marginpar’s LinkedIn page or visit

Part of the funding comes from ‘the Marginpar mix’.

www.marginpar.com to follow the foundation’s progress.

At the Dutch distribution centre, we prepare auction trolleys with a fixed number of flower bunches per bucket. However, what happens next is that a few bunches of flowers are ‘left over’ because, for example, we put 80 bunches in flower buckets on an auction trolley and number 81 does not fit in. All these extra bunches 77

The quest for Eryngium A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away.., an Eryngium breeder and a flower grower embarked on an extraordinary quest.

Beyoutiful bloemen

Questar® Flying 10,000 km from The Netherlands to Zimbabwe to put a variety into the ground that had never touched African soil, they patiently tested the perfect recipe for the Eryngium Questar® series. What happened next exceeded their wildest expectations. Today, Marginpar is responsible for about 85% of all Eryngium production sold through the Dutch flower auctions. From there they are exported to florists around the world. Pulteney Bridge Flowers

It’s all about innovation Marginpar maintains strong partnerships with both large and small, international and Dutch breeders. These breeders cross plants until a flower emerges with all the unique characteristics that they, and we, are looking for. Then, when we believe it fits in the Marginpar range, this crop needs to be tested in Africa to find the right cultivation recipe. It can be a process of many years until it meets our standards and a product can be offered to the market. We work with the Marginpar model: an exclusivity agreement where the breeders and Marginpar jointly develop a variety and share in the success. One of the first partnerships started with Maruwa B.V. and Kwekerij Sinnich; joint breeders of our Eryngium Questar® varieties.

BLOOM’s

Risks and challenges The collaboration with Marginpar started back in the early ’90s, when Bart van Rixel (Maruwa B.V.) and Peter and Diana Sinneger (Kwekerij Sinnich), came into contact with Marginpar owner Bate Koning. Peter Sinneger: ‘Marginpar was immediately wild about the Eryngium Questar® line. We took a big risk in the beginning when we sent about 90% of our plants to Zimbabwe because Bate needed more plants. That could have just as easily gone wrong. The first Eryngium Questar® stem 79

I auctioned sold for 3 Dutch guilders, we had just 1 variety at the time.’ Now, years later, a whole line

Atelier Penn Foll

of thistles has been created: the Questar® series. It has not been easy, Bart van Rixel en Peter Sinneger had to overcome many challenges, and they knew that more would follow. Peter: ‘We have had ups and downs, but nothing that we and the Marginpar farms couldn’t handle. One example is the hailstorms that sometimes destroyed entire fields. This is a major risk of open field cultivation. In Ethiopia, where large Eryngium fields are located, enormous hail nets of up to six metres in height are now being installed to prevent this from happening in the future. Another difficulty is crop rotation, to keep the soil, and plants, disease-free. Eryngium has few pest problems but is quite sensitive to disease. We are now using biological soil treatments. Organic cultivation in the world of flowers is not easy, but luckily we all like a challenge.’ Creating a constant supply From the beginning, Peter and Bart have often been to Africa to help out at the trial sites where the breeding recipes for new varieties are developed. Peter: ‘We now have a good breeding programme in test fields in Ethiopia, Kenya and on our home farm in the Netherlands to see the different performance in various climates. Tanzania is too hot for thistles, we tried that, but it didn’t quite work. Growing them in different countries, with seasons that are well-matched to each other, ensures a constant supply. Also, certain varieties grow better on one farm than another: the white Sirius, for example, does not do well in Ethiopia, but thrives in Zimbabwe; it prefers a slightly warmer climate. Another very important aspect of Eryngium is the timing of harvest. As soon as the flower starts to bloom, it draws nutrients from the leaf, which reduces the quality of the leaf. The flower must be picked from the field before that.’

Sylvia Hartmann - Diana Frohmüller Photography

New varieties Marginpar and Kwekerij Sinnich have been working together for decades and we are all very proud of it. Diana: ‘We are proud that the flower itself has survived for so long and that there is still a demand for it. The fact that we, as a small breeder and grower, have been able to develop this and are still able to do so and that new varieties are constantly being introduced, is very special. We are also proud of the cooperation with Marginpar, longstanding as it is. The mutual trust is high, that is the basis.’ We feel the same way and are super excited about new Questar® varieties that are on their way. We can’t tell you just yet what exactly is coming, but we will be introducing new varieties really soon! Want to be the first to know about new developments? Subscribe to our newsletter here:

Jimmy Englund

The Questar® series Peter and Diana were inspired by the celestial bodies for the names of their Eryngium series. ‘Questar’ comes from the word ‘quest’. A search, or exploration, if you will. This quest led them into a world of stars, planets, and constellations: Orion is a prominent constellation located on the celestial equator and visible throughout the world. It is one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky. It is named after Orion, a hunter in Greek mythology.

Eryngium Orion Questar® is the oldest and most popular variety. It is characterised by the blueish flower petals surrounding the head. A Supernova is a powerful and luminous stellar explosion. This transient astronomical event occurs during the last evolutionary stages of a massive star or when a white dwarf is triggered into runaway nuclear fusion.

Eryngium Supernova Questar® is the only thistle with a green tip, there is none like it. Supernova features the largest flower within the Questar® series. Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky. Its name is derived from the Greek word Seirios, which means ‘glowing’ or ‘scorching’. Being the brightest star, it played an important role in the ancient navigation of the Pacific Ocean.

A perfect name for the bright Eryngium Sirius Questar®. Sirius is the only white eryngium on the market and is cultivated in Kenya and Zimbabwe. 82

Aquarius is a winter constellation in the Northern Hemisphere, between Capricornus and Pisces. Its name is Latin for ‘watercarrier’. Aquarius is one of the oldest of the recognized constellations along the zodiac.

Eryngium Aquarius Questar® is a blue, cone-shaped, and very popular variety. The flower head is thicker than other varieties.

Eryngium Magnetar Questar® is one of the newer Eryngiums and is very powerful, just like its namesake. Magnetar is easily recognisable by its large, round, blue head and is becoming increasingly popular. A Magnetar is a type of neutron star believed to have an extremely powerful magnetic field, formed by the collapse of a star. Magnetars are the most powerful magnetic objects detected throughout the universe.

The Eryngium Questar® series is produced in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe. The series is available all year round in various grades and lengths.

This bridal bouquet is made exclusively of Marginpar flowers. We love how a single Clematis is also used in the bride’s hairstyle to make it a whole! FLOWERS USED Chasmanthium Latifolium, Aster Dark Milka, Campanula Champion Pink, Scabiosa Scoop™, Limonium China White, Astrantia Billion Star® and four kinds of Clematis Amazing®: Miami, Havana, Kibo and Vienna. With thanks to DPK magazine. 85 Robert Modderkolk - DPK - Meesterlijk Geschikt

TOP 10

FLORAL TRENDS 2022 In the world of flowers, a gentle change is taking place. Not all changes are permanent, some are returning (like wedding and event work - which we have had to miss recently). But the palette is changing, and the question arises: is the flower business still as strong as pre-Corona? In some countries, domestic consumption has actually increased, due to the simple explanation that people are spending more time at home. Furthermore, we see that highly qualified, artistic florists, are increasingly distinguishing themselves from the traditional flower stalls. Concepts with ‘a bit of everything’ are fading. More ‘workroom’ concepts are emerging. At the same time, it is a challenge to keep shops at prime locations in the city. This Trend Top 10 has been designed for florists but is also interesting for buyers and distributors. An interplay with trends from the interior field, looking at colours, textures, images, shapes and craftsmanship. It is not a must, but I see the special, extraordinary flowers as being eminently suitable for artistic flower design. These very delicate and graceful flowers are most beautiful in the hands of professionals. CREATE & ENJOY, GREGOR LERSCH

WILD LOVE

Bouquets with a natural spontaneous appeal The bouquet seems almost self-made, but on closer inspection, it has a high level of sophistication. A spontaneous whole, which some might see as ‘unfinished’, but the expression is very natural, organic, and lasting. The creator feels nothing for conventions, rules and does not allow himself to be limited. Wild vines flatter themselves between groups of blossoms and grasses. Even a piece of a loose branch can hold the searching eye for a moment. Little flowers flow and dance. The handle of the bouquet disappears under the falling lines and vines. To create this, you need high discipline, to let the many graceful flowers and delicate stems reach the water source without stress. The soul explodes in the enthusiasm for summer flowers. The ‘wild love’ bouquet does not scream out ‘you must be mine’…no, it comes with a certain opulence. It does not reach to the heart but to the soul. Standing in glass or ceramic, in metal or hard wood. This bouquet goes from hand to hand and must be able to speak. There are summer beauties available all year round to make this bouquet, but don’t forget to look for some wild addition from nature around you. These little extras may give a whimsical touch. About the design The base is a horizontally held, green lichen-covered branch, drilled on a willow stick and pushed into this wooden pure organic base. On this wooden base are some leafless hop vines, also as a technical medium, to hold the flowers. The bouquet has no wires. The flowers flow inside, going up and down, forwards, and backwards. The shape ends in an oval.

BOUQUET GOES INTERIOR

level, if the thirstiness of the flowers allows it. Some ‘swimming’ leaves or petals can be added to the water.

Temporary interior elements Almost all flower styles and positions are possible: The opposite of the hand-tied bouquet is this one,

standing at the edge of a table, flowing downwards,

the one that sets the mood in a room. There are many

erect with a few vines, armed with grasses or flowering

possible forms; the interior bouquet is more stylized and

tendrils to the floor, upright, horizontal as table

follows the parameters of the environment. A bouquet

decoration, restrained lushly or even cool and modern.

such as this shows itself in its totality: the stems are

Grasses, leaves and vines are useful in this trend.

clearly visible as well. This trend is marked by the harmony between bouquet and water supply.

When someone enters the room they feel the attraction,

The container is often a flat plate with a lower water

the special sight of an uncommon design.

‘Bouquet goes interior’ is a challenge, a reason to keep

wax cord. The Clematis and Scabiosa in the foreground

practicing and studying. This trend requires knowledge

dominate. The binding ends in a point in such a way

of botany: which flowers are suitable - looking at shape

that only the slanting cut stems are under the water

and character, creating enough diversity, etc. It is part

level. This technique is not suitable for all types of

of our identity as ‘people of the green professions’.

flowers; you really have to be skilled at it to be able to

It is becoming more and more important to know the

work in this way. The binding point is clearly not a spiral,

names and uniqueness of our floral friends.

which is unusual. This style of bouquet - free-standing, lying or leaning - is not made for handing out as a gift,

About the design

but really for interior decoration.

A stretched table decoration in the shape of a drop: long and pointed. The structure is made of willow twigs, covered with Clematis bark and wrapped in durable

3 THE ART OF ORGANIC FLORISTRY Floral compositions of the sustainable kind The works in the floral scene are becoming more and more sustainable. Where previously artificial decorative items were chosen (which will still be in a landfill in another 100 years), our trade is now starting to feel the responsibility for nature and climate. The choice of natural colour and shape elements is so enormous that it is no longer necessary to reach for something artificial. Works are becoming 100% sustainable and compostable. This really doesn’t have to come at the expense of creativity. Although it does sound a little funny when we say that with this trend ‘florists design for the trash can’. The flowers used in this context have innocent ‘garden faces’. Small, nodding their heads, building communities or looking proudly ahead, seeking attention. The structures are made of pure plant material, standing in water. No glue, paint, wires or plastic... the key is creativity. Because of this, the chance for innovation is high, works in this trend are often surprising. The pieces can be classical, decorative, but also modern and very asymmetrical. Think also of mono; in form or monochromatic shades.

About the design In this organic work, the flowers are placed through drilled holes in a disc. The disc stands on long willow poles, which have a bound cross under the wooden base. It is fastened with a wax cord. There are also a few tubes of bamboo placed on the disc, tied to the willow sticks. Flowers can be placed in the basin in which the work is placed. The less sensitive flowers can be put in the tubes. The Jatropha flowers, for example, keep very well there. There are straight upright flowers like the Eremurus and the taller Alliums, the vine of a Kiwi plant and Crocosmias.

FLOWERS ARRANGED AROUND

Sometimes different in height, shape, colour, pattern and more. These differences are also reflected in the flowers:

THEMSELVES

think of a combination with Craspedia, Gloriosa and Jatropha for variation in shape, colour and character.

Arranging blossoms in vases together It seems easier than it is. There are many rules, and This trend is very strong. We have seen it for some years,

possibilities, ways to do it and ‘never do it like that’.

often born to save costs on table arrangements. At times

It takes a caring, light, refined hand of the designer

it seemed shabby rather than beautiful, but the trend

to make the spectacle come to life. Playful? Yes,

has now blossomed. The ‘budvases’, as they are called in

certainly. But with consequences and limits. Make groups

America, are ready to become a real trend. Place a bunch

of circles, rows of squares or ovals. Rhythmic like a

of them on a plate, a mirror, a metal base, a table

dance, compact like a cube. With small eruptions and

runner... It has an opulent charm. The vases are very

fine tendrils to connect.

refined and often made of colourful glass or ceramics. The flowers in the vases reach out to their neighbours in

About the design

adjacent vases, creating sophisticated combinations of

The arrangement is placed in many blueish, simple glass

shapes, colours and textures. The scenes become richer

vases filled with water. There is a larger group on the

and richer and what flowers are better for this than the

left, and a smaller one on the right. A structure is made

smaller species and the varieties that can be taken apart

from chalk sticks, tied together with white wax rope.

- like the Eryngium. Clematis with their nodding

Blue flowers, and a little purple: Agapanthus,

flowers and shapely grasses like Chasmanthium create

Delphinium, Clematis, Oxypetalum, blue Hydrangeas,

a binding effect. The small vase decorations can be

Gentiana plena and Passiflora.

adjusted, mixed, transported and distributed with ease. The vases often consist of mixed collections, table pieces full of memories.

BLOOMING EVERYWHERE

It is surprising, unexpected. Ideas abound, but technical sophistication is key to discreetly providing clean

Flowers in unusual places

water.

This trend is based on fun. A light arrangement on a

About the design

chamber lamp, a design on a slab of wood on the wall -

This white-in-white situation, with Helleborus

with water in a hidden container-, or a work on a

blooms as focal point, is reminiscent of winter.

wardrobe rack - perhaps as a shoulder pad, chic and

Using a base like a lantern, which can be tied to the

fashionable, natural, and filled in groups with summer

ceiling, a lamp or even a stand, you create the feeling

garden flowers and other interesting plant materials.

that flowers fit in any place. This work has no

It doesn’t have to be big; it can also be in smaller

wires but uses a fence post with drilled holes and

formats: for example, free-hanging mini-curtains or

inserted sticks. This creates a very punchy ‘inside’

designs in droplet form hanging from the ceiling.

with a quiet outline, since all the sticks have the same

Think also of smaller pieces in miniature form to surprise

length. On the right side of the sticks are bamboo

dear people in special places. On the desk in an office,

tubes attached, using white raffia. Make sure that

on a bathroom sink and even on the dashboard of a

the Helleborus does not have too large leaves,

car. The central figure in this trend is the flower, not the

preferably a little less. A single Polianthes feels good

framing elements. This is where the emotional message

in the vicinity of its African friends. A wax cord with

is strongest.

small Malus floribundus in green hangs down all the way, to create lightness and it helps to stretch the

The advantage of flowers in special places is the attention they attract.

form.

ROOM-CHANGING BEAUTIES

Large room decorations with flowers Over the past two years, people have missed out on a lot. Weddings, big events…. Things are coming back, sure, but in what form? And for which budget? ‘Modesty’ can be a result of the current spirit of the times. Not in terms of aesthetics and quality, but in the overall look of the flowers. Garden style flowers: graceful, tender, deeper into botany. Interesting greens find their way back into the designs. An absolute strong trend is that of sustainability, and in this context especially not to tamper with nature. Reduce the amount of non-organic decorations at weddings and events. We see that many look for sustainable, natural alternatives. People like to be carried away, to feel as if they are in another world. And flowers can do exactly that! We know all about arches, gates, and flower walls. These require a different technical procedure and interpretation, using fewer very expensive flowers and more green forms. More and more, summer flowers are becoming the stars of the wholesale market. It is impossible to imagine florists without them in their order lists. We are seeing a revival of romantic new and existing flowers. There is

also a desire to feel for the more modest originality of a country past, while the presentation methods can still be modern and innovative. The array of room decorations is very variable, yet far from minimalistic. On the web we see little innovation, we tend to see pictures from the grand old days (up to 2 years ago). What is coming up is more sensitive, durable and polished. 94

About the design

here. At times, the flowers are grouped together, at other

The large aluminum cup with a ‘helmet’ of thin iron rods,

times, standing alone or flowing between all the light of

covered with galvanised chicken wire. Plastic Anthurium

the elegant flowers. This kind of arrangement is possible

tubes, a remnant of the cut flower transport system, fit

in many interesting forms. Feathery or short-textured,

perfectly in the holes. Ideal and durable to put delicate

symmetrical or asymmetrical or even transparently lit

cut flowers like Clematis, Talinum and Chasmanthium in

with front and backlight.

FRESH VS DRIED

Mix it up Dried flowers are one of the big trends at the moment, but a flirtation with their lively friends from the flower fields makes the trend feel deeper. In the past, it was sometimes considered a faux-pas, a style break, to mix fresh flowers with dry flowers. With influences from vintage, boho and the garden style, we see more and more flowers in different stages of bloom. Dried flowers remain trendy but mixed with fresh cut flowers it adds a romantic charm. Polianthes with meadow grasses, Statice and Scabiosa, for example. In between dried Hydrangeas, grasses and maybe some Helichrysum or pink Rodathe. Lovers of this movement prefer to let it shrink and dry, as a reminder of the last summer. Dried flowers absorb colour, fresh flowers add colour. You will see wreaths for walls and doors, where only 2/3 of the ring is covered. Bouquets, flower filled sacks. But why not combine them with fresh flowers, so as not to linger in the past? This look can be changed daily. You can use fresh flowers dry, or place a hidden small tube with water and a rubber cap, with Campanula for example. About the design In a long, weather-beaten looking, zinc container filled with Agrowool as an arranging aid, a 50cm wide wreath is made from various dry materials such as Lunaria, Helychrysum, Peonies, Cotinus and Hydrangea. All tied with organic rope. The ring inside is made of willow and wrapped with bamboo leaves. Standing on sticks, floating over the base in an asymmetrical position. The wreath is covered with flowers in the ratio 3 to 8 (3 empty, 8 covered). The grasses and flowers, such as Agapanthus and Panicum, are quite upright in parallel and give a fresh contrast to the wreath.

STRAW

Houses and businesses are just waiting for input from the floral scene.

A trend with tribal origins, the boho style, from nomadic peoples who lived in very rural areas.

About the design

Everything they owned was highly transportable,

U-shapes of straw are wrapped with wax cords and

light and mostly organic. Natural-based materials play

attached to each other. The Craspedias are pushed into

a major role. Not only weddings and events, but also

the dry grass. The fresh flowers like Gloriosa are placed

fashion and decor seem to be more and more plant

in bamboo tubes, wrapped with wax on the inside so that

based.

they hold water. The structure is very stable, made of very hard thin bamboo sticks, standing upright on a

The mass rise of Pampas and Miscanthus grasses is the

ceramic dish. Here in combination with the very

result of a longing, the desire for freedom in city life.

important long lasting Craspedias. The Gloriosa is the ‘dancer’ in the arrangement. Some yellowish small flowering herbs create an interesting elegance. Two very thin grass garlands provide more movement.

They remind us of the nomads, with their tents and animals, who go wherever they want. The straw trend is big in floral design and floristry. The work here is simply made from grass from a meadow, wrapped in organic wax cord and standing upright in u-shapes. Flower designers should embrace these beautiful raw materials like straws, grasses, and fibres. It evokes creativity and inventiveness. The summery Marginpar flowers have the grace and character to fit perfectly into the nomadic world. 98

BUNDLED POWER

Topiary shape art The topiary is a festive cut form made from plants or cut flowers. Custom-made, created for an event, a space, an occasion, a person. It is a very special form in many periods of history. In flowers, horticulture and landscape architecture. How much fun is it to create interesting shapes from summer flowers? Some flower shapes are ideal for symmetrical decorative classical arrangements, for the more architectural positions and presentations. But there is much more to this subject. Compact shapes in a slightly asymmetrical form, movements that break out of the dense mass... Modern ideas of a topiary are seen in 2022. Not too big, too lush, too rich in flowers. Even a shaped bouquet, in a vase, can be so interesting with enough creativity. A bundle of flower shapes on long straight stems can be an excellent topiary. The landmark of a

good topiary is the intention of a cut or shaped contour. Even small works can have this. Do not focus on flowers only, grasses, greens, vines and dry material are also very suitable. Try drying fresh material yourself, the bundled effect can be very interesting. About the design Two spears on a stick are formed from hop vines. The bamboo tubes have lateral arms and are pushed into the vines, filled with water. There are thinner bamboo sticks with smaller ones attached, waxed from the inside, which hang down to allow the flowers and grasses to dance. Another shorter topiary is placed on an iron cup, dyed a faint purple. A ball of Agrowool holds all the petite flowers such as Clematis, Eryngium and Hydrangeas. Topiary is a very traditional theme, but there is an opportunity here to make a more modern adaptation. 99

A GAME OF COLOURS

About the design The focal area stands sideways from the position the

Playing with blossoms and stems

arrangement is standing on. To create this, you need floral technique skills to play with weight and balance.

Warm floral colours; rusty, orange, and red meet

A new chance to learn how to work asymmetrically.

the richness of gold. A trend that we will also see in some interiors. In flower design, this trend involves slightly diagonal or overlapping positions in vases or containers of the ‘noble’ variety. Flowers that belong to this warm trend are the Dahlia, Jatropha, Crocosmia, orange Gloriosa and Hypericum. Focal point shifts are interesting for creating asymmetry The flowers are not arranged radially or vertically. They overlap and shift their focal point diagonally. The shifted focal point of a flower arrangement can be so different, next to, on top of or even below the table edge on which the arrangement stands. Design qualities are needed here, to make the flowers find a perfect home. Some of the trends for 2022 are more spontaneous, wilder even, so natural, but this one is more stylized, placed, made to look at the details. A new look is emerging. Not just full of flowers, but looking at the whole floral fabric and its details.

GREGOR LERSCH Master of Master florists Lersch (1949) grew up among flowers. He studied at the master school in Bonn, became a florist and took part in various competitions. After winning the 1978 European Cup in Rome, Italy, he soon concluded that sharing knowledge was the only way to go on. He started teaching floral design. Nationally at first, but soon interest from abroad followed. He now travels the world reaching out to students and florists on all continents. Lersch: ’It is my greatest motivation to make people feel that designing with flowers is the most normal thing in the world.’ Besides being a floral designer and teacher, Lersch is also the 100

author of several books on floral design. www.gregorlersch.de

101 Photography pjk-atelier

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MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE Practising ESG: by everyone, everywhere, every day Sustainability is a never ending journey. A journey we are more than happy to embark on, because it is our duty to do so. It’s not an easy one; it requires a lot of focus, and it takes time. But it makes us enthusiastic: to keep on looking for innovations, to stay ahead of the curve and to go beyond compliance. Through innovations we can make big steps, steps to make the world a better place.

Our people are number one

nourished and stay healthy. Each farm also has a

Ultimately, it’s the people who make a company

medical clinic, that doesn’t only provide medical care

successful. They are number one. We employ nearly

when needed but also gives a lot of health education.

4,000 people, 5,000 if you count our partner farms.

But it doesn’t stop at the farms. You have a responsibility

We value, respect, appreciate, and empower them.

to the countries and environments you operate in.

In practical terms, that entails for example that

Communities around us are intertwined with our

everyone at the farms gets a proper meal, provided

business. CEO Richard (Kiki) Fernandes: ‘We have a

in our canteens, cooked by our own people, with

responsibility to create a better world for people so

vegetables grown at our farms. We want to make sure

there’s no better place to start than within our farms

our people, who mostly live in rural areas, are well

and the communities around us. ESG (which stands for

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Environment, Social, and Governance) is embedded into

Doing the right thing trough ESG

our organisation and practiced by everyone, everywhere

As we mentioned above, ESG is embedded in our

and every day. It has become a part of our culture, a

organisation. But what exactly is ESG? It stands for

natural way of thinking. What we now see happening

Environment, Social, and Governance. Areas of

is that everyone is doing his or her own small thing to

importance, beyond our own benefit. Marginpar is a

make the world a little better. Small steps, that really

frontrunner when it comes to ESG, because it has

count up if you do them every day. And if you take that

become part of every day’s work. ESG committees on

way of thinking into the communities, it starts happening

each farm focus on day-to-day improvements in water

there as well.’ Next to the small steps, our innovation

quality, safety, waste management, composting, and

team thinks about the big ones, the more complicated

community welfare. Properly managing ESG may not

or expensive ones, like solar panels and LED lighting.

bring immediate profit to a company, as it requires a lot

But we don’t stop at the farm gate. We support the

of investments. At Marginpar we believe it’s not all about

communities around us by building additional classrooms

the money. Doing the right thing - caring about the

for schools, improving roads & infrastructure and support

people and environment around us - comes naturally.

community projects with funding, materials, and people.

ESG Officer Steve Muchangi: ‘In short, when we talk

We have no problem finding volunteers, our value adders

about environment we talk about the planet and

are happy to help the communities. Imagine building

taking steps in all our processes to improve care for the

a classroom for your own children, together with your

environment. The social part is all about people, both

colleagues and other parents.

internal and external. This means that we take care

‘We believe our responsibility does not stop at the farm gate.’ To increases our impact, we are currently setting up an official Marginpar Foundation, all about that on page 74.

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of our employees, we make sure they have a good working environment and try to improve their home life too where possible. External stakeholders entail for instance suppliers and neighbours. Lastly, governance is about complying to the government’s rules and guidelines. This means we have to have proper certifications and permits.’ Big innovations Steve and the farm teams are working closely together with Production Innovation Consultant Sebastian Chambers, who focusses on big innovation projects in the company. New water reservoirs, irrigation systems, infrastructure, energy reduction & generation, solar power, biodegradable sleeves… ‘the practical stuff.’

water also saves on fertiliser, as it travels the same way

Sebastian: ‘Sustainability is important for anyone.

as water and now stops at the end of the root zone,

We must leave the world a better place than where

instead of going deeper into the soil where it has no

we started. In addition to this intrinsic motivation to

effect. As a result, we are using our water much more

do better, we expect the market will demand more

efficiently than before and use less fertiliser as well.

sustainable practices in the near future. We tick a lot of boxes already, but there are always ways to improve long

Reducing our carbon footprint

term sustainability of for instance water, energy and pest

Marginpar is a member of FSI2025. FSI stands for

control. With regards to energy use, we are looking for

Floriculture Sustainability Initiative, an initiative

ways to reduce consumption and to generate our own.

conceived to find more sustainable solutions for farmers,

Solar energy is especially useful for pumping and

the environment, and for the future of the sector. One

refrigeration because this is mainly done during the day,

of their key objectives is the reduction of the product

when the sun is out. At the moment, a lot of farms rely

carbon footprint for selected products by 2025. FSI is

on boreholes for irrigation. We want to reduce that.

developing and testing an environmental foot-printing

To save the energy now used to pump this water from

tool, together with Marginpar and other stakeholders,

the ground, we need to catch and harvest more

for the calculation and reduction of our carbon footprint.

rainwater. This is also a good practice for the earth in

Members may use the tool to calculate their own carbon

general because it can prevent flooding and put less

footprint and set a carbon reduction goal for selected

pressure on the aquifers. We store the water in off line

products.

lagoons, so we don’t interfere with the flow of rivers.’ Pest control by drones Saving water by 40%

We are concerned about preservation of ecosystems and

Marginpar is also looking at ways to reduce water use.

are looking for ways to decrease our use of pesticides.

A great example is the use of Aqua Checks; a probe goes

Sebastian: ‘We can ‘spot spray’, meaning that we only

in the ground about 40 cm deep and measures how deep

spray the particular areas that are actually affected by

down the irrigation water is going. We discovered which

a pest, as small as 1 m2. We also use pest-specific and

crops are shallow-rooting and which are far down.

organic products and insects as natural enemies of

Each irrigation system is now tailored to the specific

certain pests. Plus, we are trying something new: a drone

needs of each crop. This way we can keep the water

that detects and identifies pests and kills bad pests

where the roots are and know when to stop watering.

without any chemicals. Harmless insects are left alone.

This has shown to save about 40% water. Saving

We need those, to pollinate the Hypericum for example.’

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Beyond compliance Our governance mantra is ‘going beyond compliance’. Steve: ‘We don’t just look at what we are supposed to do according to government regulations and standards, but ‘do what we feel is right’. Why? because we care for both people and the world that we live in, we know that it is the right thing to be doing. Of course, we do have all government certifications and permits necessary. The government does a few audits a year, which are actually very welcome because they are a nice confirmation that we are going in the right direction.’ We also make sure that we stay in the lead and look ahead to anything which is likely to become a

Steve: ‘We expect quite a lot of development in terms

requirement in the near future. Steve: ‘For instance, at

of ESG. The environment will have a prominent place

the moment measuring our carbon footprint is not

in our strategies and processes. We believe the more

mandatory but we have partnered with stakeholders

sustainable we are, creating better results, the more

(including FSI) to develop a carbon calculator: a

we can invest in ESG projects. It is a continuous cycle.

tailor-made carbon measurement tool. FSI’s vision is to

For example, we are aiming to generate 40% of our

have all their members be able to measure their footprint

electricity needs from green energy in the next 5 years.

by the year 2025 and thanks to our early start we are

Plus the Marginpar Foundation is going to be of

going to be way ahead of time.’

tremendous help in the social development on and around our farms and we are going to continue to be

The next 5-10 years

ahead of government regulations and stay on top.’

Speaking of the future, Steve also talks us through some

There is still much to explore on our journey to a better

expected developments in ESG in the next 5-10 years.

world. Like to stay informed about our ESG commitments? Connect with Marginpar on LinkedIn.

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ORIGINALS

ASTRANTIA STAR®

The Astrantia Star® series is grown in Kenya, Ethiopia and Zimbabwe and consists of different colours, from white to bordeaux and everything in between. Astrantia is one of those flowers you just need to have a closer look at. That fine structure, the star-shaped floral bracts and that sweet little heart. Then you will see that actually only the heart consists of real blooms: a bunch of tiny flowers on thin 106

stems. We take our hats off for mother nature. Well done lady!

4 STYLING TIPS FOR AN INTIMATE WEDDING The world of wedding floristry is a big one. One of our favourite wedding design teams is The House of Artz. This wedding and event business was started in 2018 by Pascal de Laat and Michelle Lublink when the duo just wanted to ‘do what they love most’. They love making floral arrangements for weddings because they can work big! Backdrops, walls, ceilings, centrepieces, corsages and of course bridal bouquets. Their style is eclectic, edgy, and romantic. When the big wedding and events market temporarily stopped in 2020/2021, Pascal and Michelle kept themselves busy. ‘Big’ turned into ‘small’ and ‘intimate’. The question arises…

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How do you style a small wedding into a big success? They start off with stating that ‘Having only a few guests does not mean you cannot think big. Whether it is because there is more time and freedom during the special day or because of the budgetary benefits of a small guest list, a wedding en petit comité will allow you to indulge in many areas.’

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So how do they suggest to style a small wedding? 1 Even though flowers can probably brighten up each

3 Even though we are supposed to be all about flowers,

and every space you choose for your wedding, we

we sure also really appreciate a delicious meal. Team

suggest you find a sweet, intimate wedding venue like

up with the chef and pamper the guests with a top

this couple did in The Secret Chapel, in the centre of

notch dinner styled with flowers. And in the context

Amsterdam. 2 Once you’ve secured the venue, make a mood board

of our profession: consider edible flowers! 4 Now that you have created such a beautiful scenery,

using elements of your venue as the base. Select one

it would be a waste not to capture it. Not only will

or two main flowers that match the venue and make

these photos be the most beautiful keepsake for the

sure they appear in all of your arrangements. It is

wedding couple, it will also be important for them to

important that all flower arrangements create a whole,

show them to friends and family that could not attend

but are not the same! A small wedding is the perfect

the wedding. Create different floral sceneries for the

opportunity to create uniformity in the colours all

shoot. For instance, go crazy and do a bathroom

around you.

photoshoot in an oasis of Clematis (see page 108). Credits FLORAL DESIGN: The House Of Artz, ACCESSORIES & LINGERIE: Ankii My Vintage Boudoir, CAKES & CATERING: Cake Queen, Graze For Days, Ninour, COUPLE: Janneke Scherpenhuyzen & Jordan Hodge, DRESS & APPAREL: Atelier Edwin Oudshoorn, EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN: Mrs. Lake Weddings, GROOM & HIS MEN: Michael & Giso, HAIR, MAKEUP & BEAUTY: Marion Bruidshaar en Make-up, JEWELRY: Lovely Elysian, PAPER GOODS & CALLIGRAPHY: Lin Mc Queen Kalligrafie, PHOTOGRAPHERS: Wit Photography, RENTALS: Représentable, VENUES: Private Mansions

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ORIGINALS

ASTER

Are you superstitious? The Germanic people believed that the scent of burnt Aster leaves drove away poisonous snakes and evil spirits for the winter. In modern flower language, Aster stands for love and patience. Thank goodness, because this sweet little flower is far too beautiful to burn, isn’t it? Currently we grow Aster Dark Milka and Aster Flash, but an expansion is in the making and new colours are on their way! 111

The Marginpar Culture AN INSIGHT INTO HOW OUR COMPANY CULTURE AIMS AT GROWING PEOPLE THAT GROW UNIQUE FLOWERS. WE FULLY REALISE IT IS THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE MARGINPAR SUCCESSFUL. THAT IS WHY WE SAY: ‘WE GROW PEOPLE, OUR PEOPLE GROW UNIQUE FLOWERS’. IF WE CAN PROVIDE OUR PEOPLE WITH WHAT THEY NEED TO GROW, MEANING: SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, A SAFE AND SUPPORTING WORK ENVIRONMENT AND GUIDANCE, WE SEE STRONG DEVELOPMENT AS AN OUTCOME. BOTH FOR THE PEOPLE AND THE TEAMS THEY WORK IN, AND FOR THE COMPANY ITSELF.

UNIFYING OUR PEOPLE INTO EFFECTIVE TEAMS

communicate in an appreciative way to enable introvert

Great things are never achieved by just one person; they

and extravert personalities to provide input equally.

are always achieved by teams of people that aim for

This way we try to bring together the diversity of

collective goals and jointly share ownership on how to

personalities, their ideas and viewpoints and to forge

get there. This collaboration takes thoughtful guidance

them into a collective voice.

that is given through ‘Servant Leadership’; a leadership style by which one balances the two qualities of direction

Richard (Kiki) Fernandes, CEO of the Marginpar Group,

and service to support teams to perform.

explains: ‘Look, most people come to do a good day

Another vital skill we train our people to apply is that of

of honest work. Servant Leadership, appreciative

creating collective focus; connecting all individual ideas

communication, are ways to show respect for the

and opinions into one shared vision on how to work on

contribution people bring. This is so important because

something as a team. Second to this we strive to

it leads to unlocking the hidden potential that lies within

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each and every one of us. Thanks to this attitude people can grow.”

The essence At the heart of our Marginpar culture we believe in:

IMPROVING EVERY STEP OF THE PROCESS

• Serving and empowering our people.

Underneath these leadership and interaction skills we

• Unifying them into effective teams.

laid a foundation of Kaizen (Japanese for ‘Change for

• Showing respect friendliness & solidarity.

Better’) over the past 10 years. With ‘Hamuka’, as we call

• Caring for the wellbeing of our people, their

Kaizen, we standardised our work processes. This has

communities, and our strategic partners.

made a big impact on our organisation and is now fully

• Creating a healthier world for the people

embedded in the way of life of many of our employees.

to live in.

Hamuka provides clarity and uniformity to the work processes and encourages people to engage their ideas

rate drop significantly. The improvement to the support

to continuously improve these processes. Kiki: ‘This

system is now used on all farms. And what happened

means we involve our people to understand the process

to Teresa? She moved on to a new position and is now

flow from start to end and to learn how to talk with data.

Assistant Production Manager. Kiki: ‘A lot of our staff,

And we empower the teams to not only carry out the

or value adders as we call them, have grown thanks to

right process every time, but to also continuously look at

this way of working. They started as non-skilled workers,

how they can improve them. The starting point is to roll

and are now our managers. Take Miriam for example.

out each step of the process in the right way, to have a

She started as a junior manager and is now managing

checklist for each phase, from beginning to end. These

our Thika farm. The same goes for Hamuka Coordinator,

teams drive continuous improvement and by doing so

Adan. Although he couldn’t go to high school, he has

improve the end result. They understand every detail of

grown from a security guard into his role and has become

every step in the process and see best what needs to be

an excellent coordinator.’

improved.’ THE MULTIPLIER EFFECT IT CHANGED THE WAY WE WORK

Consequently, we have a very low staff turnover of less

The implementation of Hamuka changed the way we

than 2%. Showing respect, friendliness and solidarity in

work. We saw people becoming happier and more

which everyone’s input is valued is largely contributing

confident in their work. Their ideas are appreciated, they

to this. No idea is a bad idea, and we encourage our

take more responsibility. For example, one innovation

people to climb the corporate ladder. From flower

thought up by value adder Teresa was extra support for

harvester to farm manager: if you unlock people’s

the Hypericum crops. She devised a new support

potential, great things are possible. This effect has not

system, tested it with her team and saw the rejection

gone unnoticed, and even crosses international borders. Recently, Marginpar Ethiopia kicked off with Hamuka and soon our partner farms in Tanzania will follow suit. No doubt Servant Leadership and the interaction skills we are currently learning will follow. Kiki: ‘We are all about creating a better place for people in the world we live in. The beauty of it is that our Marginpar culture has a ripple effect in everyone’s families, it acts as a multiplier. Everyone took the philosophy home and taught their children the good practices. The effect is huge because up to six (and in some cases even more) people benefit from, or are supported by, a single person at work.’

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SEASONALS

CAMPANULA

CHAMPION SERIES

Oh that sweet romance... This is a flower to fall in love with, isn’t it? The beautiful long stems with pastel coloured flowers do wonderfully well in romantic (field) bouquets, or as a whole bunch, solo, on the kitchen table. Our Campanula is from the ‘Champion’ series and comes in 5 different colours: white, pink, blue, lilac and lavender. 114

The House of Artz - Silver Lining Studio

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