Kwekers Bode UK 2021.pdf by Uitgeverij de Bode

Photo: Perry Roovers SQ Vision

2 0 -0 1 -2 0 21

Green in city and village is an absolute necessity

The tree nursery industry in Zundert 6

We have to protect our natural resources

Focus on ‘The Forgotten Garden Season’ 16

Tree nursery industry innovates with multiple technologies 10

Image tree nurseries is fine but can be improved 18

COLOFON: This KwekersBode is a cooperation between Uitgeverij de Bode and

GrootGroenPlus | Distribution: Municipalities of Halderberge, Etten-Leur, Rucphen en

Zundert | Circulation: 54,000 copies | Acquisition: Sonja Kox and John van Aert | Lay-out BERGEN OP ZOOMSE BODE

BODE THOOLSE BODE and MOERDIJKSE design: Jan Bastiaenen | GrootGroenPlus texts are submitted by: Arjan Bakx, David

Bömer, Arno Engels, Chantal van Kuyck, Frank van Suchtelen and Julia Voskuil.

SPECIAL 2 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

GREEN IN CITY AND VILLAGE is an absolute necessity

Ages ago, a green environment was a sign of wealth, which is shown by the parks and pleasure gardens created in those

Steenbreek, a foundation that works on

building cities and villages in the Netherlands. Municipalities also had a lot of knowledge when it came to assortment,

In the next years, the focus of Stichting

times. At the beginning of the 20th century, and also in the fifties and sixties, green was taken into consideration when

creation and maintenance. As a result of urbanisation, the pressure on ‘green’ in the western world has increased enormously in the past three decades. ‘Red’, which are homes and offices, prevailed. Green became an afterthought, even

though scientific research in the eighties proved that green contributed greatly to the wellbeing of people who live and/ or work in urban areas. In private gardens, green also had to make way for maintenance free options. But things seem to be changing now.

The Green City (Groene Stad) campaign, that associations of tree nurseries and horticulturalists used at the beginning of this century to draw the attention

of governments and citizens to the

and nurseries take care of that.

into the picture - where it should be. That

Making your living en vironment greener

importance of green, has put green back

is completely in line with their slogan of a couple of years ago: Green is life,

Roel van Dijk is director of the Stichting

making the living environment greener. Steenbreek will be on four themes:

biodiversity, climate adaption, social

cohesion, and health. “These are four

important themes that cannot be seen separately from each other,” says Van Dijk. Themes that are really important

for our society and therefore deserve an

integrated approach.” Van Dijk: “We want to replace unnecessary paved surfaces in gardens and public space by green. Municipalities can decide on their own

how they want to do that: with citizens, organisations, and companies.” Green measures can be: creating example

gardens, building insect hotels, creating green facades, and making the entire

street greener, along with everyone living in the neighbourhood. But it also focuses on more green around industrial sites, healthcare sites, and school grounds.

Remove the tile, put in a plant

The actions of Stichting Steenbreek were basically focussed on removing tiles

and planting plants? “Yes,” says Van Dijk, “and that is still the case. It is important to make people aware of the fact that

unnecessary pavement might seem very

practical, being called maintenance free, but it will eventually lead to problems, especially now, with extreme weather

and climate change. If you replace tiles by green, you will help the soil absorb

rainwater, to keep the groundwater at a sufficient level, and to prevent the

sewage system from overload. It will

also prevent stones from storing heat. Square around the Van Gogh church. Photo Freson

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A pavement does not contribute to biodiversity. Green is healthy.

Initiatives in the neighbourhood

Initiatives in the neighbourhood are very

important when it comes to greening and creating a healthy living environment. That is why Stichting Steenbreek now hosts an annual competition, where

participants are challenged to search for innovative initiatives related to the improvement of biodiversity, social

cohesion, and that contribute to climate adaption in a positive way. These

initiatives might serve as examples to others.

City in the park

A remarkable initiative in the region is

Breda’s intention to make the city the first European city to be situated in a green park. The municipality wants to put

Continue on page 5

Tree planters in front of the town hall of Zundert, project executed in cooperation with Coöperatieve Vereniging Treeport Zundert. Photo: Freson

Why are trees so important? 1. Trees filter CO2 from the air and

convert these molecules into building blocks to support their own growth.

CO2 is stored in wood, leafs and the soil, often for centuries.

2. Trees catch and process many toxic

substances in the air, such as carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

3. Trees keep us cool. By creating a

canopy to catch the sunlight, forests also create important oases of

shadows on the ground. Trees also

reduce the heat island effect of a city and regulate regional temperatures.

4. Roots of trees are important partners

during heavy downpours, especially in low-lying areas, such as floodplains. They work like a sponge and help the soil to absorb more during a downpour.

5. The root system keeps sand and mud in its place. It strengthens the entire

foundation of the ecosystem against erosion by wind or water.

6. Trees can either store the toxic

substances or degrade them, and make them less harmful.

7. Sounds fade in forests, which makes trees a popular natural sound wall.

The rustling leafs and other sounds of the forest dim a lot. A few well-positioned trees can limit sounds with 5 to

10 dB, or approximately 50% of what is audible to human beings.

8. Trees stop the wind. Groups of trees can function as a windshield, as a buffer to wind sensitive crops.

9. Trees provide fruits, nuts, seeds, and

juices, and a lot of stuff on the ground, from edible mushrooms, berries, and beetles to many other animals.

10. What would we be without wood and

resin? We have used these renewable sources for a long time, to create

anything from paper and furniture to houses and clothing.

And…

trees and plants are also just very beautiful!

Source: Mother Nature Network

Personeel in de gezonde boomteelt!

W W W . B C T - Z U N D E R T . E U

www.treeport.eu

info@treeport.eu +31-(0)76-5995000

SPECIAL GGP Promotion Week 4

Since it wasn’t possible to host a physical edition of the fourth Groenbeurs Zun-

Bargam zelfrijdende en/of gedragen veldspuit - VAMIL / MIA mogelijk!

dert (spring edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus) on 20 and 21 January 2021, we

will pay special attention to all participants of the fall edition of 6-8 October 2021. We will do this during a promotion week from 19-26 January 2021. Some of our activities:

• Awarding a field inspection on 20 January;

• Making a link on 20 January with the public part of the general meeting

of Coöperatieve vereniging Treeport

6/10-8/10/2021

Zundert U.A.;

• Promoting the participants (and their

• Publishing a bilingual KwekersBode on

• Placing eyes at participants who open

• Adjusting the websites, trade fair app

profiles);

20 January;

up their company during the promotion

and web app to 2021;

week;

• Being active on social media.

with current stock during the promotion

If you’re not on the participant list

• Activating the entire search engine week;

• Broadcasting three company tours at participants on 20 and 21 January;

of GGP 2021 and would like to join,

please register through the form on www.grootgroenplus.nl

#Growers jargon

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Uniting parts of two different plants, which form a new plant. The graft and rootstock are usually from the same species/genus, but have different characteristics. Alternative to cutting or sowing.

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Continued from page 3 : Green in city and villageis an absolute necessity

Breda on the map as City in the

Doing green

deterioration of biodiversity, and to

green, we should be planting it,” says

Park; a green metropolis, to curb the connect citizens and companies. The

central area still has 150 hectares to be

developed, but the only way to do that, is if green is included as well. Examples are

vertical green or green on roofs. To make

the existing area greener, one could think about facade gardens: removing stones

and adding green. Industrial sites should also be made greener. Using green

fences instead of regular once would be

a great option. Breda wants to physically connect the green inside and outside of the city.

“We shouldn’t just be talking about

information is used as a foundation for our policies.”

Didier Hermans from nursery Herplant

The municipal executives has been

public spaces should be a lot greener.

choosing green and biodiversity.

in Beerse (Belgium). “Our gardens and Currently, people are mostly waiting for the government or others to take the

lead in making things greener. We can

do this ourselves in our own gardens. The growers in North Brabant and Flanders

offer a very diverse assortment, so one

can just choose anything that is suitable to their specific garden or terrain. And

one shouldn’t forget about the balcony, the patio, and the tiled garden. A lot of

tiny surfaces can lead to a lot of green.”

Hermans does emphasize that whatever you’re planting: it’s living material, and

needs maintenance. How much, depends on the selection of the plant. “And there is a lot of talk about native and non-native plants, but take it from me: any plant is fine, as long as it isn’t rampant or invasive.” Go green!

Zundert is going green

The municipality of Zundert is very serious about ambitions related to the design of public space. These ambitions also

include water management and climate adaption and going green. Patrick Kok,

alderman of the municipality of Zundert, responsible for spatial planning, has

tasked with ‘green over grey’ and Disconnecting rainwater, so that it doesn’t just move through the

sewage system is one of the things

the municipality is working on. “That is a task for the municipality, but we do

want to make our citizens aware of its importance,” says Kok. He continues:

“Good water management is essential in our municipality, with having such a

large tree nursery industry. That is why we go for a solid water system, to maintain and control our biodiversity. We started a pilot project, Vitaal Buitengebied, in

cooperation with the province and water board. During this pilot, we will look at

challenges in our rural areas, along with other parties. How can we continue to offer chances to entrepreneurs? How

Alderman Patrick Kok planting a tree.

can we deal with themes such as water

trees supplied by local growers, because

that entrepreneurs also contribute

is also one of the ambitions mentioned

and sustainability? I think it is important ideas. As a municipality, we are willing

to let go of regular policy framework, if we see that another approach would

benefit society more.” The municipality

is also moving forward when it comes to greening. It ordered the planting of 160

supporting business life within the area by Kok. Flower beds and plant borders

are created, and if that is not possible,

like in the Molenstraat, where there needs to be space for the large flower parade vehicles, large roadside tree planters have been put in place.

the floor: “We have taken some major

steps, which we are very proud of. We’ve

created an integrated management plan and a water and sewage plan. We’re the

first municipality in West Brabant to fill in

A part of the 160 planted trees. Photo: Freson

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

the Climate atlas, which means that we

Cutting (vegetative propagation)

water stress, and drought. We now know

as humid soil to create a new part.

have mapped out things like heat stress,

A plant part without roots, cut from a plant, and placed in a suitable medium such

exactly what we have to deal with and

Garden hoe

how to create focused measures. This

A tool to undercut weeds just below the surface. The cutting blade of an upright how is directed to the back.

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SPECIAL 6 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

THE TREE NURSERY industry in Zundert

Anyone who dives into the tree nursery industry in Zundert, cannot ignore the fact that

prior to the rise of the tree nursery industry, the region mainly consisted of poor farmers. The forests in the surrounding area were used for wood, the heathland for sheep, and

the cultural landscape was used for vegetables and fruit. The yards around farms were focused on usefulness. No ornamental gardens, but plots with hawthorn or blackthorn

used as livestock fences. This was only different for the nobility, where gardens were still regarded as status symbol.

Economically, things weren’t looking that

Poverty reduction

Belgium) had a bad infrastructure, and both

appointed as mayor. He sets poverty

good: the Kempen area (The Netherlands and provincial and local government lacked vision. The Belgian Revolution, which started in 1830,

also made its mark. When the soldiers left and the inhabitants got the opportunity to take

stock, roads and bridges were destroyed, and Photo: Koninklijke Boomkwekerijen Pierre Lombarts Zundert

the community chest was empty.

In 1840, Caspar van Beckhoven is

reduction as a priority. In 1847, a lot at the

Minoore (area) in Wernhout is purchased for an unemployment relief project. It

is a 29-hectare plot of heath, meant to reclaim and afforest. Five years later, another 17 hectares is purchased.

In 1855, that resulted in a harvest of 15

hectolitres of pinecones and 22 pounds

of seeds. This proved to be a very fruitful start of commercial arboriculture!

In 1860, the Minoore employed five people fulltime, at a day’s wage of 50 cents. The

Poor Relief Committee, which was tasked with taking care of the poor, usually

within the parish, expanded her activities

to other grounds, such as the meadow of the Hof, the meadow at Stuivezand, the

‘Poor man’s meadows’ in the Gooren, and the meadow in the Boontuinen.

At that time, the grounds near the large

brook were also very suitable for the tree nursery industry. It was often emptied,

and the mud and clay was spread out

over adjacent grounds, to improve the soil. In 1863, guano (imported manure

products from birds) was used for the

first time. This helped improving the parts Watering the young pine trees. Photo: Koninklijke Boomkwekerijen Pierre Lombarts Zundert

that were a bit further from the brook.

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Entrance of Zundert. Photo: Freson

Pinus sylvestris

increased by the year, and that all the

founded. The first year, it had 20 students,

as well. Companies moved from horse

Zundert was characterised by the growth

Development tree nursery area Zundert

increased to approximately 30 a year.

trailers, and pick-ups. In the eighties,

The start of the tree nursery industry in of Pinus sylvestris, also known as pine

or Scotch fir. The wood of this tree was

mainly used in mining; it squeaks when

it moves, which meant that any collapse of the mine would make itself known

beforehand. Plant material that was not

suitable for breeding was used as wood for stoves.

In 1866, another purchase at the Minoore was done. That was also the start of

trade between the Poor Relief Committee and the rapidly increasing number of nurseries. In the following years, the area prospered, and having a Poor

Relief Committee didn’t really seem to be necessary. To improve cultivation,

growers felt the need to start using crop protection products. In 1886, 24 growers requested the required phylloxera declaration.

During the tenure of mayor Van

Beckhoven, arboriculture in the area steadily developed. The reports that the Queen’s Commissioner made in

the period of 1896 - 1925 show that the respect for this upcoming economy

knowledge gained was shared widely.

The cross-pollination between nurseries, strawberry farming and fruit production

led to new insights and opportunities for all those involved. This helped Zundert

develop into a rich area. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Poor Relief

Committee concluded that it completed its mission and withdrew itself from the nursery.

in the following years that number

The school followed the need for more

and well-trained staff for the nurseries. At the end of the 60s, education had to be

‘improved’, and the training fell under the ‘Mammoetwet’, an educational-reform legislation. That proved to be a historic

error and ultimately led to the death of

tree nursery education in Zundert in 1981.

The developments in the green industry

Transformation

being widely applied. This increased the

same fate. The industry has transformed

continued. As of 1920, fertilizer started

acreage and widened the assortment. At that time, Zundert was home to multiple renowned nurseries that were also

often involved in trade. In those years, names as De Pijnboom, Wilhelmina,

Lobarts, Dictus, and Doomen (with one and two o’s), and others, appear to be

synonymous for the entrepreneurial spirit of Zundert.

It was of course important to maintain

this economic development. That is why

in 1949, on the initiative of mayor Manders and others, the ‘Fruitvakschool’ (a

vocational school for fruit cultivation) was

Fortunately, arboriculture didn’t suffer the since 1955. The cultivation was adjusted to the demand of plants for modern forests. Growing ‘urban green’ and

responsible construction of landscapes and recreational areas increased. The activities on the nursery were

modernised: tractors, planting machines, grippers, millers, and harvesters came

into play. After that, the narrow-gauge tractors, height-adjustable platforms, and a noticeable refinement of

techniques for the application of

chemical weed control followed. And

when it came to logistics, a lot changed

carts and trams to transport using trucks, palletisers entered the scene, quickly followed by supplying plants on CC

trolleys with multiple layers. For those not familiar with these carts; these are the

rambling carts that do have a standard size, but make a lot of noise and always seem to have a broken wheel.

Growers also paid special attention

to making economical use of the soil.

Mechanisation, drainage and irrigation, advanced sampling and fertilisation

created a more accessible soil and a

higher yield per hectare. At the end of

the sixties, the meandering river of Aa of

Weerijs was practically straightened. That resulted in a year-round accessibility of the grounds surrounding the banks. The expansion of the trade and

cultivation led to more growers taking the leap towards entrepreneurship in

the seventies. More billboards with new names appeared next to the plots, and the competition forced all nurseries to work at a higher level.

Continue on page 9

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SPECIAL The GrootGroenPlus trade fair app 8

Since 2013, trade fair GrootGroenPlus has its own app. New functionalities are

added to the app every year. Since 2020 was a rather special year, with an entirely digital edition, we now also have a web-app.

- the digital way, soil and plants for the future, dying trees, and bees.

www.rhodoskwekerij.be

The quadrilingual GrootGroenPlus app

can be downloaded for free for iOS and 6/10-8/10/2021

This web app also includes all live

broadcasts of 2020 from the studio, which are also included on the website and in the trade fair app. Including interesting

15-minute table sessions about Brexit in

the tree nursery industry, doing business

Android. The web app is accessible to

anyone with an Internet connection. The trade fair app also works as a digital

trade fair guide and already contains

Exclusieve collectieswww.rhodoskwekerij.be | Solitairen | Reguliere maten | Volle grond

the list of participants of the edition that

will take place on 6 - 8 October 2021. It is also possible to follow the social media channels of GGP and connect with the participants.

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#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

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Continued from page 7 : The tree nursery industry in Zundert

Announcement: chairman of trade fair GrootGroenPlus and Treeport

manager David Bömer and participant Arjan Bakx (expositions at trade fair

GrootGroenPlus) recently presented a story on arboriculture in the region. David

announced that he will give the presentation again, for a bigger audience. Check

Trade fair GrootGroenPlus

out our social media accounts to stay up to date! 

Sending out stock lists started

area, and it is striving to become the

companies to present themselves. They

This short description of the nursery

to become an inefficient way for

were looking for new ways to sell, and that led to the first BoomteeltExpo in

1986. In 1991, the first edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus was held on the middle terrain of the Assortimentstuin, which

was created in 1988. The combination of maintaining the Assortimentstuin and

hosting the trade fair proved to be a bad combination. The garden was disposed of, and the trade fair has become a

professional and international staple in the tree nursery industry in the past 15 years.

agro logistical heart of Europe.

history of Zundert might be best

summarised by a quote from Alfred

Delahaye: “This success, and possibly

a subconscious desire to forget these

humble beginnings, made people easily forget that the industry was actually

founded on dire poverty. Something to

be proud of, instead of ashamed, since we’re all working to put bread on the

table, whether we are a brain surgeon, pencil sharpener, carpenter, grower or jet fighter.” 

Collective participation Coöperatieve Vereniging Treeport Zundert at GGP 2019.

Nowadays, trade fair GrootGroenPlus is the international start of the new trade season. The participating businesses from Zundert are responsible for

approximately 25 per cent of the trade fair floor and have come a long way in

their professional presentation. In just a few decades, the industry moved from

phone, telex and fax machine to e-mail, website with online stock systems, and sometimes even a web shop. And of

course, most nurseries are also active on social media nowadays.

Heart of Europe

The nursery region is strongly rooted in a healthy soil, and is ready for the future. The nursery industry in North Brabant and the Noorderkempen

(Belgium) has a long history, and has

become indispensable for employment opportunities and economical

development in the region. Through the years, the region has developed into

a modern and innovative tree nursery

Nursery plots and multiple types of cultivation around the Rustenburgstraat. Photo: Freson

Boomkwekerij Jochems-Peeters en Zn. Heischoorstraat 11 4882 JA Klein-Zundert 06 - 22 79 09 12 06 - 39 14 96 54 06 - 51 15 09 05 contact@zetstam.nl www.zetstam.nl

SPECIAL 10 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

TREE NURSERY INDUSTRY INNOVATES with multiple technologies

A number of GrootGroenPlus participants are working on technological inno-

the heart of the plant”, says Bastiaansen.

such as beech, Prunus, Taxus, and other

mitre planting, an electronic tractor which is able to hoe between trees, and a

plant in the disc.”

Basrijs, the planting distance can be

vations for the tree nursery industry. Such as a planting machine with GPS for

robot that does all of this by itself. And a combination of intelligent technologies to maintain groundwater.

Machine uses GPS for planting

by led strips. The builder explains:

disc planting machine for tree nurseries.

disc, and the system will record the

In the fall, Basrijs has used the first GPS “We’ve been dabbling with this for a few years,” says Corné Bastiaansen,

from the mechanisation company from Rijsbergen. Multiple growers asked him

about this type of planting machine with

“A led light will move along with the speed electronically.” GPS will correct the system, but whether or not that’s necessary, depends on a number of

factors. “Such as the size of the plant,

“And of course the people that put the

Precise planting, with rtk-gps up to 2

cm? Christianen puts that in perspective: “There will always be deviations, mainly because putting the planting material

in the disc is still manual labour.” To him, mitre planting is very important. “At an

equal distance, with all plants having the same amount of light, air, and water.”

The grower puts his planting materials,

conifers - at 75 x 75 cm. With the new

easily adjusted, says Christianen. “If you

turn the button, it will plant at 60 cm. The machine is very user friendly.” With mitre planting at 75 cm, will it also be able to

hoe diagonally with GPS? The grower calls that unrealistisc, referring once again to the possible GPS deviation, despite the theoretical accuracy of the system. “I

want to move to a very uniform crop, and this might help with that.” 

high-tech control.

Boomkwekerij Christianen, also from

Rijsbergen, is the very first one to use it.

“I didn’t mind being a guinea pig,” says

Peter Christianen with a smile. “You can try something new at ten nurseries, but it’s more convenient if you’re located

just around the corner, in case of any

initial problems.” Christianen did have

some experience with the disc planting

machines from Basrijs. “I wanted to take a new step towards precision farming. I didn’t want to drill any holes, but I did want to use mitre planting.”

The principle of the new planting

machine has remained the same: you’re seated on the back and put the planting material in a large spinning disc. It will

be moved to a trench, and the soil will be closed off again. Previously, it made use

of hydraulic control. “The discs now have electronic controls,” says Bastiaansen. “That works better for GPS.”

The markings on the discs, that indicate

where to put the plant, are now replaced

Planting machine GPS Basrijs. Photo: Boomkwekerij Christianen

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Maintain ground water with intelligent technology Maintaining as much ground water

as possible on a tree nursery plot, that

allows for water to be used as effectively

as possible for growing: that is the idea of a new research, conducted on a plot with beeches of Lodders Boomkwekerijen in

Wernhout. The research will start in 2021. Maintaining water instead of draining it,

is the motto, prompted by the dry springs

Practical research at Boomkwekerij Lodders, showing Marc Lodders, Tijmen Dekkers, and Edwin Raats. Photo: Freson

number of growers in the Zundert area

Brabantse Delta, Treeport Zundert, advice

Raats says: “We will use the wintertime

that can create an image of the

level-controlled drainage. These are

installation company GoTech, the

that it doesn’t churn the soil as much

Dekkers: “How we measure things

and summers of the past three years. A

already started using drip irrigation and two techniques to use water efficiently,

compared to the reels and nozzles that are currently used for crops.

The new practical research at Lodders will make use of a combination of drip

irrigation, level-controlled drainage, and digital, intelligent measurement and

control technology. Grower Edwin Raats thought of the idea with civil engineer

Tijmen Dekkers, from Deltae Innovation Solutions in Zundert. “We want to work

towards a self-sufficient watermanagement system,” says Raats. “This can

work in theory, but it also has to work in practice.”

Lodders, Raats, and Dekkers are not on their own. A number of other partners

are involved in the research: water board

and research company GroeiBalans,

municipality of Zundert, development

agency Rewin and Landbouw Innovatie

Noord-Brabant. “It’s great to see that the water board, the municipality, and the province are also participating,” says

Dekkers. “As soon as we get the results

from the research, and we know how the system actually works, we will be able to copy it to other nurseries very fast.”

The research will start in the spring,

within the Pilot Vital Rural Area, in the

basin of the Aa of Weerijs. The plot will be prepared for the project. It does

to improve our machine, to make sure

as it does now; with tubes with an 8-cm

diameter, while you only put in tubes with a diameter of 2 cm.”

For the research, different measurements will be made, related to the soil and

water. For example by using a rain meter on solar energy, with tensiometers that record the capillary capability of the

soil. Moisture sensors will be located in

places where the soil is a bit more heavy or lighter. This has all been mapped out

using the soil scan; advanced equipment

differences in the ground.

is important, and we have to make

sure that all measuring equipment

communicates the right way. We’re now creating a technical design of that.” The

research plan has also been adjusted on a few points. “GroeiBalans will conduct research on the relationship between

soil vitality and the groundwater regime. If the soil contains too much of one

mineral, we can measure the effect on the other minerals.”

Continue on page 15

have level-controlled drainage, which means that the drainage hoses in the

soil do not automatically drain the water, but are able to contain it if necessary. Lodders will put irrigation tubes in the soil, alongside the rows of beeches.

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Dendrology

The study of trees, shrubs, and woody plants in general.

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Varb, digital partner of GrootGroenPlus 12

Trade platform Varb (www.varb.nl) offers participants of trade fair

GrootGroenPlus the possibility to present their products in a digital way,

on the website and in the app. During the GrootGroenPlus promotion week,

from 19-26 January 2021, visitors can see what products the participants offer.

The products are presented in a list and

through pictures, for a more visual option. With this last option, you can see what a plant looks like at a glance. The contact information can be used to approach

6/10-8/10/2021

“Varb is a very user-friendly platform

that contributes to the digitalisation of

participants who offer their products. “This is the fourth year into the

our industry.”

partnership. We can see that we connect

Alec Hermans- Herplant BV

facilitate the network that companies use

multiple parties with each other. We

to do business. That is very important,

Digital offer

especially now, when physical contact is

The offer of green participants can

limited as much as possible.”

be seen through the cart on www.

grootgroenplus.nl and in the free trade fair app. You can search for the offer

on participant and (part of the) plant

Linda Hoogendoorn-Veelenturf, director Varb

name. The outdoor green products can be found using the botanical name. Available numbers are shown.

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13 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

Conserving the soil with light battery-powered machines Increasingly more nurseries will make

Grower Chris Uijtdewilligen from

fertiliser pellets, or spraying in high

portal tractor, to undercut the roots of

use of light machines for weeding, dosing volumes. Battery-powered machines

that conserve the soil and prevent soil

compression. And they might even not need a chauffeur, since they can work autonomously: a robot.

Boomkwekerij De Minoor is the first in

the Zundert area to use a weeding robot

named Oz. More robots, which are made by Naïo in France, might follow suit. “We

are working on multiple proposals,” says Thijs van de Ven, who works at importer Abemec. “Especially in mandrel growth. The Oz is able to maneuver through all

those young trees. We hope to move in the direction of other crops.”

Naïo also builds a robot for growing on

beds, such as forestry and shrubbery, but Van de Ven thinks that this Dino is too

low to be able to move over for example beeches. “We did sell a Dino, to onion

growers.” In 2021, Naïno will start the serial production of a third robot, named Ted, which will be able to move over higher plants. That will be some sort of portal tractor.

Wernhout is still considering buying a

his ornamental shrubs with stem. Those small trees are attached to wires and a pole at every 10 m. “If I am able to

undercut the entire row, without having to move the poles, it would save me hours of time,” says Uijtdewilligen.

The grower did purchase another portal tractor, for light crop protection, such

as weeding. It is the first E-Trike for the

Zundert area, an electronic machine with three wheels, built by Gebr. Ezendam. A

lightweight, according to Hens Hinloopen,

E-trike nursery. Photo: Hens Hinloopen

who was part of the team that created

control the machine myself. That means I

great addition to our company.”

80 kgs. The hoes will add another 20 kgs,

The E-Trike for Uijtdewilligen has yet to

change height and width,” according

this concept. “The machine only weighs and a fertiliser doser will add 15 kgs.” Uijtdewilligen already had another

machine using the same concept. The grower laughs: “A wheelbarrow, which

helps you get in shape, since you’ll walk

quite a few miles in a tree nursery.” That

get to see the trees during work.”

be built. He is considering planting his

trees at a distance of 80 or 85 cm. This

is currently 75 cm, which means that the machine - at 76 cm - will be a bit too

wide for it. “Anyway, the E-Trike will be a

The concept has a modular setup. “It can to Hinloopen, “the drive technology is

located in the middle. Another option is a machine for bed cultivation, for plants of up to 60 cm.” Nothing is standard in the tree nursery industry.”

is why he will start using the E-Trike. He

compared the tricycle to the robot Oz, but chose the first one. “You can have a robot do the weeding for you, but I’d rather

Boomkwekerij Verpaalen-Herijgers

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Habitus

The natural growth or appearance. For example a hedge, weeping form, columnar.

Tree dripline

The area around the trunk. If the tree is larger, the tree drip line is also larger.

New in 2021 Cornus alba ‘Miracle’

Sometimes it is useful to plant here, but in other cases it isn’t.

Perennial

Perennial plants are herbal, perennial seed plants that can blossom more than once during its lifetime and live longer than two years.

Vacancy

Nursery employee We are looking for a new member to add to our welcoming and dedicated team. Activities: Cuttings, sorting, and caring for plants.

Dutch language skills and a driving licence B are important. Send us an e-mail at: info@boomkwekerij-verpaalen.nl Or call: +31 (0) 76 597 28 49 Address: Rustenburgstraat 1a 4881 DN Zundert

w w w . v r a a g h e t g e w o o n . n l

Shrubs bare root Rooted cuttings Hedging plants

www.boomkwekerij-verpaalen.nl

SPECIAL 14 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

WE HAVE TO PROTECT our natural resources

With built-in areas in the Netherlands still expanding, the pressure on eco

systems and biodiversity increases. How do we deal with our natural resources, such as water, soil, ground, biodiversity, and of course, our employees. Water is indispensible within an

more efficient use, and smarter irrigation

It is a resource and necessary means

Water Board Brabantse Delta currently

agricultural and horticultural company. of production. Since agriculture and

horticulture use up most of the space,

they are also responsible for great water management in the surrounding area.

Of course, that is important to maintain natural eco systems and biotopes, and

biodiversity. Water board Brabantse Delta is responsible for water management

in the area. “In the tree nursery industry, water management is very important.

The same applies to strawberry farming,”

systems.”

encourages any efforts on this subject by implementing a grant scheme for

the application of drip irrigation at the

root. “Some growers are already using this. It is important that we all accept

that entrepreneurs benefit from great water management in the long-term.

Our climate is changing, and we use a

lot more water. We have to start doing things differently.”

Water Board. “Drought has increased

The importance of good soil management

lifeline of water doesn’t get depleted, we

management is also very important.

says René Rijken, area consultant for the the use of water. To make sure that our

have to use less. As Water Board, we try

to postpone an extraction ban for as long as possible. We have to move towards a

Besides great water management, soil Biodiversity in the soil is extremely

important in allowing for circular life. The foundation VICOE from Zundert

IBN Learning Line Nursery works on creating a vital soil that has

best to collect it close to the source, so it

growth. With their work, they help farmers,

“In Amsterdam, they started using ‘worm

a lot of nutrients, which will encourage growers, and horticulturists to grow

and produce sustainably. VICOE (Vitale Circulaire Organische Economie, vital, circular, organic economy) wants to

create a closed circular system within the municipality. In order to do this, everyone has to participate: farmers, residents, horticulturalists, growers, companies,

and government. “They all have to start seeing how valuable organic waste

can be to the local community,” says Hans Hofland, co-founder of VICOE

and someone with over 30 years of experience in terrain management and projects. He has a wider view

when it comes to circular activities and an ambition for the future. Everyone, business and private people, has to

deal with organic waste. It needs to be disposed of in some way. It would be

Application bokashi. Photo: Hans Hofland

doesn’t have to be transported. Hofland: hotels’. All participants get a key card and put their waste in underground

containers (the Diftar system). There, worms are composting it. A trial with

100 participants resulted in 5000 kgs of

‘waste, with lead to 800 kgs of valuable

compost. VICOE is now trying to convince the municipality of Zundert to work with

this worm hotel, the Diftar system, as well, and to place worm hotels at schools.

That way, children will be educated in

an interesting way. Using organic waste in the best possible way, preferably

near home, has a lot of advantages. The organic substance (compost)

resulting from the waste can be used for a great soil. Adding such a layer

can also create a sponge like effect, a

water buffer. This system can be applied both in growers and in regular gardens.

Zesde Tochtweg 1k 2742 KR Waddinxveen tel: +31 (0)79 - 5935010 email: SALES@DOOLCULTURES.NL WWW.DOOLCULTURES.NL Baarleseweg 16 • 5113 TA Ulicoten

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The drought and the massive amounts of rain in a short period of time, which

we have to deal with nowadays, are a

problem to everyone. “The demand for

organic substances is huge,” says Hans

Hofland. “It would be great if the area of Zundert could create combinations to make organic waste. That will prevent

unnecessary transport and CO2, and will add to a healthy structure of the ground and more biodiversity.”

Taking responsibility

Jolanda Van Hasselt is grower and a

Brook area in Zundert. Photo: Freson

member of the council of Treeport. She

disabilities. After the Participatiewet was

Take timely action

economics; financing, cost calculation,

natural resources. Van Hasselt: “I would

much broader. We now also help people

more complex, within themselves, but

And also when it comes to social issues.

is very committed to careful use of our like to call upon all our colleagues, not just growers, to take responsibility for whatever you’re doing. Think about:

what are you doing and what are the

consequences, is there another way.”

Van Hasselt feels that you also have to

look beyond farming. “Human beings, our employees, our colleagues, they are also

resources.” She feels that there should be

no rules for this, but thinks that setting the right example will also encourage others to follow a similar path.

Social

Frank van den Bergh, director of the IBN nursery, manages a cutting company, that feels very strongly about dealing

with resources and employees carefully. Van den Bergh: “We are a ‘social

business’, we offer jobs to those who

need a bit of additional support. IBN once started out as a sheltered workshop,

for people with mental and/or physical

implemented, our goal has become

to haven’t been able to work for a long time, people with a resident permit,

and young people from special-needs

learning schools. In short; everyone who needs additional support to get back to

work. We help people get ready for work, which means that some of ‘our’ people start working at other companies.” Being careful with people is very important to us; we focus on

sustainability. “We have been ISO and MPS certified for years. We adhere to these guidelines. We’re very critical

when it comes to being careful with all

resources. We grow organically whenever

Companies are getting increasingly also within society, due to rules and

regulations. This complexity makes it

increasingly more important to take the right decisions as entrepreneurs. Many

of them like to postpone thinking about problems, but that will only make the

problems bigger. Taking timely action

and working with specialists has become more important, according to senior

business consultant Frans van Wanrooij from ABAB Accountants & Adviseurs.

Legally, when it comes to labour law,

zoning plans, or rules and regulations. But also when it comes to business

budgets, or meetings with the bank.

Entrepreneurs have to deal with a lot

more, which can increase the mental

pressure. That is also why it’s important

to consult specialists, such as a general

practitioner. As entrepreneurs, we cannot fix everything ourselves. We need a

good team of consultants, to help us.

Costs don’t have to be a roadblock in

economic prosperous times like these.

However, they might be when times are harder, and it’s even more important to

take timely action. Please make sure that you will not let the costs or shame be obstacles in your way.

possible, which improves the quality of

the cuttings. And the standards we set for ourselves are also set for our suppliers. We also pay special attention to weed free growing. We weed weekly with

machines we’ve developed ourselves.

That way, we are able to guarantee an almost weed free product.”

www.hooghoutplant.nl

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Taxonomy

The systematic separation into groups in the plant and animal kingdom. This

separation creates an overview and forms the basis of the (scientific) naming.

Specialised in spindles and light standard trees Pandgat 12 - Oirschot / Phone +31 615 654 676 / www.vlemminxbomen.nl

SPECIAL 16 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

FOCUS ON ‘THE FORGOTTEN GARDEN SEASON’

Great news! Green is doing very well! And that has everything to do with the

enormous challenges of this time, climate change, and the pandemic. During the lockdown that started mid March 2020, people had to stay at home, and their lives continued within their own four walls. Anyone having a garden or

balcony was really lucky, and that resulted in a run on plants. Of course, that is

great news for all types of nurseries. Focused promotion will help further increase the interest.

Practical applications are very inspiring

The best season for planting

when it comes to greening, and simple,

Shrubs, trees, conifers and perennials

Citizens are an important target group

practical applications have an inspiring effect. Since 2019, Gouda for example has 12 volunteers who act as Garden

Ambassadors. They really dislike paved gardens, and even just one enthusiast

can inspire others to put plants in their (front) garden or on their facade. Due

to the corona measures, gardens and balconies became increasingly more important, and people started to buy more plants.

Tuinbranche Nederland was able to

record large increases when it came to the sales of ‘living green’. Week 41 showed a huge increase of +31.5%

compared to 2019. People seemed to go mainly for perennials, such as seasonal product Skimmia. All in all, this is a

great development, which should be

maintained. Focused action, such as the

campaign launched in October 2020, can help with that. This campaign was called: ‘The forgotten garden season’. People

were encouraged to work with ‘green’ at an unusual time - starting in October.

The soft and wet winters nowadays make that possible. Green is a frontrunner, a lasting trend besides sustainable and local.

The best season for planting woody

plants used to be the fall and winter.

are resting then, and that makes them very suitable for moving or planting.

So about a decade ago, the fall was

Trade fair GrootGroenPlus shows some

that has changed. Which is a shame,

An inspection committee of the KVBC

the perfect season for gardening, but since the fall offers a lovely and wide

vandeklundertadvies.nl

(Koninklijke Vereniging voor Boskoopse

assortment of plants. Container grown

Culturen) inspects all the novelties. These

plants allowed for year-round sales and

inspections are a snapshot, but they do

planting. Growers, (major) users and

give an overall view of the potential value

implementation use that fact in their

of new cultivars. Bronze, silver, or gold

planning. Consumers were enticed to

medal certificates are handed out to

do Christmas shopping at the beginning

winners.

of October, and then didn’t do anything

Of course, new plants are introduced in

in the garden up until March. Given the

2021. Van Vliet New Plants presents the

climatological change, we should get

Fargesia m. ‘Moontears’©. This bamboo

ready to change this! The fall is the best

moment for planting, since the soil is still warm and it is easy for plants to create new roots.

The winter months are also very suitable,

is very suitable for hedges and trimming

will not dry out, not even during dry spells

cultivars is very important to the

later on. If plants are able to develop a

great root system early on, they hardly need any additional water during dry

spells. And after all; saving water is a hot item, now and in the future.

is very suitable to be trimmed. The Hebe Medieval®-series presents a new series

Photos: André Briant

Novelties

relatively wet. Newly planted products

into a ball. It is a very healthy plant, which

ROSA ZEPETI® ‘Meibenbino’.

since these are currently very soft and

OOK THUIS IN DE BOOMKWEKERIJ Bel ons voor een gratis kennismakingsgesprek. De koffie staat klaar!

great examples of that in October.

of 4 species with special coloured leafs. These are spherical shaped and easy

The introduction of new species and

to grow. Picea glauca ‘Golden Peak’ is

development of assortment within the tree nursery industry. Mainly when it

comes to plants that are really important

or a great addition. For example because they are more resistant to diseases and plagues, new shapes, etc.

a Picea glauca ‘Conica’ type that turns completely yellow gold in the winter.

The French grower André Briant Jeunes

Plants presents Rosa ZEPETI® ‘Meibenbino’. This small rose blooms continuously from May/June until frost. It has an excellent resistance to diseases and frost. The

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Industrieweg 15 | 4881 EW Zundert | T 076 597 41 02 | info@vandeklundertadvies.nl

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leaf is healthy, bright green, and almost

wintergreen during soft winters. Suitable as ground cover, border, or in a pot.

They promote their novelties online, in brochures, and through international trade fairs, such as GrootGroenPlus.

Field inspection

The trade fair offers an additional prize to the winners of the regular novelty

inspections. One of the novelties will win a field inspection. By adding this prize,

GrootGroenPlus wants to emphasize the importance of field inspections. These inspections are also being conducted by the KVBC. In 2019, the winner was

Juniperus communis ‘Lemon Carpet’ by

Schrauwen-Moerings vof from Sprundel.

Goorbaan in Zundert winter. Photo: Freson

japonica ‘Kyara Gold’ by Sierteeltkwekerij

available on the GrootGroenPlus YouTube

Road Show

can use this information to help sell the

the field inspection will be planted in the

“To us as grower and exporter, these field

a Road Show. The Road Show contains

information can be found on the website

In 2020, that honour went to Cryptomeria Kools from Deurne. Plants selected for

trial field at Boomkwekerij Bömer vof in Zundert.

The KVBC Awards, the awards for the

field inspections, were also - as usual - presented at GrootGroenPlus 2020.

Three bronze, two silver, and five golden medals. The award ceremonies are

channel.

inspections are very important”, says

Corianne Oudijk, commercial manager at Boomkwekerij Arend Oudijk and member of the board at the trade fair. “Planting in

that field shows how the plant will handle itself in practice. The regular novelty inspection is just a first glance.”

Since 2017, trade fair GrootGroenPlus has a selection of novelties from the field inspections, inspections during the

expositions, and the star inspections

that have been conducted by the KVBC in the last few years. These novelties

will be given some additional attention through this Road Show. For the 30th edition, 30 plants were selected. For

the 31st edition in 2021, 31 plants will be

selected. Corianne Oudijk calls the Road

Show the perfect addition to the novelties inspection and the field inspection. It completes the circle. “To colleagues,

this Road Show shows what valuable

plants are added to the assortment. They

products and inform the consumer.” More and in the free GrootGroenPlus trade fair app.

Cooperation throughout the chain is

necessary to make sure that the plants actually end up at the consumer. “I feel

that more cooperation within the chain

is required,” says Corianne Oudijk. “And I

don’t mean just the tree nursery industry, but the entire chain, from education

to the garden centre.” There are still to

many islands, which really is a shame. By structured cooperation, we can achieve so much more as an industry. After all,

we all have to deal with the same kind of problems.”

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Hardy

Fargesia m. ‘Moontears’©. Photo: Van Vliet New Plants

PLANTEN PLANTEN

TELEN TELEN

Hardy plants are plants that can withstand frost without special protection.

ROOIEN ROOIEN

FOLIE FOLIE

Machines voor tuinbouw en boomkwekerij Machines voor tuinbouw en boomkwekerij

Wij kweken een ruim assortiment half, hoogstam en leibomen vollegrond en potcultures. Waaronder ginkgo, magnolia(30 srt), viburnum Tinus, cercis, albizia etc, groenblijvende op stam.

Maalbergenstraat 8 | 4884 MT Wernhout | 06-28810766 www.boomkwekerijchrisuijtdewilligen.nl

SPECIAL 18 Text: Trade Fair GrootGroenPlus

IMAGE TREE NURSERIES IS FINE but can be improved

Society looks favourably upon trees and plants, which automatically benefits

about the tree nursery industry. “They

headlines with ‘toxic plants at garden

van Veen. She provides some tips to further improve the image of the industry.

except when they need a Christmas

ornamental plants, and a grower

the image of tree nurseries. At least, according to image consultant Zabeth Young grower Niels Huijbregts tells what he does to improve his image. Image is a case of imaging. An image

things for companies in agriculture and

a product, a company, or an entire

the improvement of the face of

that people have of for example a person, industry. “Image isn’t reality,” says image consultant Zabeth van Veen, who has to

horticulture. “For example regarding greenhouses.”

admit that she doesn’t really know a lot

She does feel affinity with trees and

rather unknown industry.”

was once called the most beautiful

about the tree nursery industry. “It is a

Van Veen is often consulted by national

media on the image of Dutch celebrities, such as prime minister Rutte. With her

company ImagoMatch in Amersfoort, she gives presentations, coaching sessions, master classes and training on image, visibility, and personal branding in all

kinds of industries. She has done a few

probably won’t think about a nursery,

tree,” says the image consultant. “When it comes to trees and plants, people will

rather think: ‘Let’s just go to Intratuin’, or to a local garden centre.” But the fact that

trees come from nurseries to many is just as unknown as the fact that milk comes from a cow.

centres’, talking about pesticides on

who was suspected to use Fipronil in horticulture. “That’s not great, but if

something like that happens to products that we do not apply directly to the skin or eat, it isn’t that bad for the image of

the industry, in this case the tree nursery industry.”

plants. She owns a large garden, which

Unknown and unloved? The image of

According to Van Veen, the average

garden in Amersfoort, since it includes

“Trees, plants, and flowers are great,”

the use of pesticides on trees and plants.

many botanical and special species.

It was created by the people who lived there before she did. “I love sitting in

the garden, but I’m not really good at

maintaining it. My gardener takes care of that. I do have my own herbal garden.” Many others will probably, just like Van

Veen, know nothing or hardly anything

the tree nursery industry has to be good. says Van Veen, “everyone knows they

have a positive effect, that trees supply oxygen, and that there are plants of

which it has been scientifically proven

that they reduce stress. There’s nothing negative about that.”

However, nurseries did get some bad press. Years ago, Greenpeace made

consumer does not think too much about “If you buy trees or plants, you want them to be nice.” People want to be able to (let someone) care for it after they bought it.

“Even plant shelters are trendy right now. There are shelters for animals, but also

for plants. More people know about those. Years ago, no-one would have heard of such a thing.

Niels Huijbregts: ‘It is fun to work at a nursery’ HAS student Niels Huijbregts (18) is one

You got into the profession

How do you communicate your image?

area, who works on improving the image

“Yes, through my dad and his company,

doen!’, along with Rowy Roelands from

of the young growers from the Zundert

of the nursery industry. Huijbregts (from Boomkwekerij Huijbregts in Wernhout) explains that he’s actually working on presenting a different image.

Why are you so focused on creating an image?

“Because many people know nothing

automatically?

but of course also through the many other growers in the Zundert area.

I started out at Floribras in Zundert, another tree nursery. My dad also

started here, before he started his own

business. Floribras grows many plants in pots, and you can learn from that.”

about the tree nursery industry, and

“I participated in the movie ‘Groen; zeker

Bosch. They asked us to participate in the movie, and we gladly did.”

Roelands Boomkwekerijen and Mart van

What response did you get from the

was the result of an idea of Treeport

“A lot of positive responses! My friends

Gaal from Van der Peijl Tuinplanten. This Zundert, to get more young people to

choose a green education. I am currently a freshman in horticulture - which

includes arboriculture - at the HAS Den

movie?

saw the movie on Facebook, and I was

also recognised by many others. That’s fun to see. They also all shared it on

social media. That way, we were able to reach a lot of people.”

many people are looking at our industry

And the most remarkable response?

nursery’, all they think about is big trees

nursery, but they thought I worked

in a different way. If they hear ‘tree

“Some people knew I worked at a tree

in full soil. However, we also grow plants

mainly with large trees - which isn’t

in full soil and large pots - for example

the case. Thanks to the movie, they

the Prunus lusitanica, that I am currently

got a much more accurate idea of

planting in pots. Nurserymen aren’t

our industry. It shows for example the

farmers, we’re not just working outdoors

automatic conveyor belts at Van der

with tractors. Our industry is also moving

Peijl, the mechanisation at Roelands,

towards more machine work.”

and the GPS tractor at our company. GPS allows for pyramidal pruning; as

What image are you striving for?

opposed to the old way of pruning.”

“That’s a difficult question. I’d like to show that the industry is fun to work in, that a

What are your plans when it comes to

a lot of mechanisation and automation,

“I hope that the image of crop

improving the image of the industry?

lot of crops are grown. That it deals with

and that many Dutch people are working

protection will improve, that it shows

in the industry, and that young people

that we use as many organic products

are interested in it. I think many people

as possible, that do not harm the

also think that working in the industry

environment. It is hard to get that image

means working with only East European seasonal workers, but that’s not the case.”

across, maybe we can use a giant Niels Huijbregts

ladybug on a sprayer? I’ll have to talk about that with my dad.”

products, like some growers already do:

“A smart action to show that you work in a responsible way. If everyone would do this, it would help improve the image of the industry.”

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Container plant

Tree nursery crop that is grown in a container, bag, pot, or bucket (container).

• Have young people tell others how

much fun it is to work in the industry,

like with the Treeport Zundert initiative

DOING WELL WITH AGRICULTURAL PROPERTY? GO FOR VAN HASSEL MAKELAARS!

www.groenzekerdoen.nl. “That will make Zabeth van Veen

Photo: Saskia Berdenis van Berlekom

Tips to improve the industry’s image

Image consultant Zabeth van Veen offers

these tips to further improve the image of the nursery industry.

• Show - for example on your facade and website - that your company (mainly) works with organic products. “This

might be a plus for new employees.

I can imagine that people would ask

themselves: “Would I want to work in a place where they use pesticides?”

• Put a sticker on your spraying machine, saying that it only sprays organic

them ambassadors of the nursery.”

• Invite the eldest primary school children

Ton Jochems is the NVM specialist in purchase and selling, valuation, expropriation, and redesignation of your agricultural and rural property and farmland.

for company tours: “If you want to draw more attention to the industry and

want to tell people about it, start with groups 7 and 8, before they choose

what secondary education they want to follow. They can enjoy the industry

through tours. Or you can host a virtual tour at the nursery.”

• Share your love of trees and plants with an online video: “Create a passionated

Agricultural and rural property is one of the

Agricultural and Rural property NVM broker

example agricultural businesses (such as

Makelaars is also happy to assist you in

specialities of Van Hassel Makelaars. For nurseries, livestock farming, horticulture, arable farming), grounds, but also

farmhouses in the countryside. The working area of Van Hassel Makelaars includes the

municipalities of Zundert and Rucphen, and

video and put it online. Increasingly

is locally involved and informed when it

due to corona. And if you don’t sell to

Do you expect changes in your

more people do their shopping online consumers… Refer them to the stores

that sell your plants. Or create your own plant machine at your company.

comes to rules and regulations.

surroundings or in your business? Would you like to sell or buy, or do you need a valuation report? In that case, our

would be your best consultant. Van Hassel case of starting a business, acquisition, cessation of operations, expansion, or expropriation.

If you are looking for professional guidance in selling, purchase, valuation or changes in zoning plans (such as RvR and VAB)? Contact our specialist Ton Jochems to

discuss your situation and possibilities. Feel free to contact us via

+31(0)76 5975900 or send an e-mail to tjochems@vanhasselmakelaars.nl 

GOTECH INSTALLATIE TECHNIEK FOR OPTIMAL WATER MANAGEMENT

Underground irrigation is the future ZUNDERT - Irrigation within strawberry farming has been the main activity for GoTech Installatie Techniek for years. Nowadays, irrigation through

underground tubes is also something that nurseries are using more often. GoTech can serve these industries in the region very well.

BY HELEEN VERBURG Toon Goverden, owner of the company, says: “In the past few years, the

agricultural lands in this country suffered from dry and hot summers. Intensive

irrigation was required. Still, there is not enough rain to get the groundwater at

underground irrigation tubes, connected

underground irrigation tubes is mainly

Government

sure every part of the plot is watered

biennial crops. However, we also like to

with water management in the nursery industry, by means of water boards.

Irrigation through overground installation is increasingly more often limited.

The government also lays down strict

requirements when it comes to fertilising the agricultural land and the emission of nitrogen.

Solution

to a central supply hose, which will make sufficiently. They do not get clogged and are located deep enough so they won’t be in the way while removing weeds.”

fuel. The speed of the supply pump is

surface will get much less water, which means that their growth is halted. It is

also possible to use the irrigation tubes to move liquid fertiliser.”

nurseries in the area, such as Liwardi in

for a long time, to ensure sufficient

hydration,” says Toon. “We can insert

crops.”

will be developed. The weeds at the

the roots right away, a great root system

to the root of the plants. It vaporises

nurserymen have to water their crops

think about solutions for other plots and

Savings

Nurseries

before it gets there. That means that

suitable for smaller plots, and annual or

He continues: “Since the water gets to

“Overground irrigation requires a lot of

water, of which a major part never gets

Photo: Gotech Installatie Techniek

Image: Freson Producties

the right level.”

The government is very actively involved

Image of underground irrigation system.

GoTech Installatie Techniek from the air.

GoTech has worked with a number of

Nispen and Lodders Boomkwekerijen in Wernhout. “The results are promising,

and we will continue working together next season. Irrigation by means of

Underground irrigation will save a lot of much lower, and irrigation time much shorter. “I think that these savings will

counterbalance the costs of installing

an underground irrigation system, so I

would like to welcome nurserymen from Zundert,” says Toon invitingly. 

GoTech Installatie Techniek Palmbosstraat 6 4882 NR Zundert Phone +31 (0) 597 11 15 www.gotech.nl

jarenlange ervaring in personeelsbemiddeling van en (internationale) werknemers; SPECIAL Are you Op zoek goede contacten met bemiddelaars in o.a. Polen en Visit the participant profiles 20

looking for a job naar werk óf or employees?

werknemers? gecertificeerde huisvesting en goed vervoer. Op zoek All participants of the 31st edition of trade fair GrootGroenPlus, to be held on 6-8

We have 60 years of experience in finding and wij employees. We Al ruim 60work jaar helpen werkgevers aan specialise in Agro & Food, among other werknemers en werknemers aan werk. Wij zijn onder industries, including nurseries. andere werkspecialist op het gebied Agro & Food, dus

naar werk óf medewerker aan de slag in deze uitdagende sector? werknemers? October 2021, will get their own participant profile.

of them also include the assortment and a promotional movie.

This interactive trade fair guide is

ook in de boomkwekerij.

n kijken graag met je mee om een leuke baan te vinden! 6/10-8/10/2021

These profiles are freely accessible

through the updated participant list

at www.grootgroenplus.nl and in the

free, quadriligual trade fair app. Every

participant will have its own web page with a lot of information and smart

accessible throughout the year, but

will get an additional option during the

promotional week of 19-26 January 2021. If you see an eye in the list… It is possible to visit the company of this participant. Are you interested? Contact them

through the participant profile to set up a meeting!

options. It shows contact information and

Participants who register for the 2021

and Skype buttons. Most profiles include

to the list of participants.

social media links, but also includes chat

a logo, photos, and favourite plants. Many

edition will also be automatically added

What can AB Werkt do for you? AB Werkt betekenen? approach; all-year-round •Wat Wekan offer a tailor-made Alleveren ruim 60 jaar helpen wijofwerkgevers aan •or We maatwerk; jaarrond voor de seizoenspiek; for seasonal peaks; werknemers en werknemers aan werk. Wij zijn onder We go gaanfor voor een duurzamerelationship; relatie; ••We a long-term andere werkspecialist op het gebied Agro & Food, dus We have hebbenyears jarenlange ervaring in personeelsbemiddeling van ••We of experience in the mediation of ook in de boomkwekerij. vakkrachten en (internationale) werknemers; skilled workers and (international) employees; We have hebbengood goedecontacts contacten met bemiddelaars o.a. Polen ••We with mediatorsinfrom e.g.en Roemenië; Poland and Romania; Wat kan AB Werkt We regelen gecertificeerde huisvesting en goedand vervoer. ••We can take care ofbetekenen? certified housing proper • We leveren maatwerk; jaarrond of voor de seizoenspiek; transport.

We gaan voor een aan duurzame Wil •je juist als medewerker de slag inrelatie; deze uitdagende sector? We hebben ervaring in personeelsbemiddeling van Would you tojarenlange workmet in je this Wij •denken enlike kijken graag meechallenging om een leuke industry? baan te vinden! vakkrachten en (internationale) werknemers; We’d like to sit down with you to find you a great job. • We hebben goede contacten met bemiddelaars in o.a. Polen en Roemenië; • We regelen gecertificeerde huisvesting en goed vervoer. Are you interested? anettenleur@ab-werkt.nl e-mail at Interesse?Send Mailus naar of bel – 763 00 01us ettenleur@ab-werkt.nl ordeze call via 076-763 00 01 Wil je juist als medewerker aan de076 slag in uitdagende sector? Wij denken en kijken graag met je mee om een leuke baan te vinden!

Interesse? Mail naar ettenleur@ab-werkt.nl of bel 076 – 763 00 01

#Growers jargon

What is this about? Professional terms are clearly explained throughout this KwekersBode.

Wat pakken wehandle vandaagtoday? aan? What will we

Mycorrhiza

Collective name for favourable moulds that interact with the root system of

en we vandaag aan? plants.

AB Werkt | ab-werkt.nl AB WerktEtten-Leur Etten-Leur | ab-werkt.nl

Interesse? Mail naar ettenleur@ab-werk of bel 076 – 763 00 01

Inter s e?Mailna ret nleur@ab-werkt.nl ofbel076–7630 1

PASSION AND KNOWLEDGE AT SCHOENMAKERS Wat pakken we vandaag aan?

AB Werkt Etten-Leur | ab-werkt.nl Architecture, spatial development, and construction consultancy

n-Leur | ab-werkt.nl

ZUNDERT - Over 20 years ago, Ad Schoenmakers founded his company. Nowadays, the company in Zundert is known for its quality, integrity, and reliability.

BY TESS MUTSTERS “We started out as an architectural firm,” says Schoenmakers, “but we’re now also concerned with spatial development

for them, since it means that they don’t have to approach multiple people. It’s one-stop shopping for them.”

and construction consultancy.” This

Experts

possibilities to work on projects in

logistics, which is very important in a

combination opened up a lot of

Zundert. The company was responsible

for the design of the apartments Tantes van Van Gogh and multiple new homes in De Tuinderij. Nurserymen, of which

there are a lot in Zundert, know where to find the company.

Nursery

When Ad Schoenmakers started his

company, it was because he wanted to

create things, preferably with others. This company gave him the opportunity to

The designs are also checked for

nursery. That is why Schoenmakers has experts on all parts of the process -

from design up until guidance during

the built - to help find the best possible

solution. They help growers find practical and sustainable solutions. “We look

for example to possibilities to reuse

water,” explains Schoenmakers. Energy consumption is also something to be

Proud

panels or green roofs.

represents everything the company

aware of. They use for example solar

combine his passion to create and his

Sustainability

have worked with almost all nurseries in

us. That is because we believe that we

passion for people and cooperation. “We Zundert,” says Schoenmakers proudly. “Growers contact us for advice on

designing and building a new shed or

tunnel. We can help them with anything, from advice to design and requesting

the right permits. This is very convenient

Ad Schoenmakers. Photo: Tess Mutsters

Sustainability is extremely important to cannot continue living the way we live now - things have to change. And we

feel that people follow a good example. That is why we paid a lot of attention

to the creation of our new office,” says Schoenmakers.

The office is really something. It

ourselves. We are very proud of our

believes in: integrity, reliability, expertise,

each customer that comes through our

professionalism, and most of all:

sustainability. The entire building is

made out of wood, except for the outer

walls, which are made of brick. With the solar panels on the roof and the heat

pump in the ground, we generate quite

a lot of energy. More than we use. That is how we can drive our company cars to clients on energy we generated

office and we try to achieve the same for doors. We don’t settle for less. 

Schoenmakers Architectuur, Ruimtelijke ontwikkeling en Bouwadvies Molenzicht 2, 4881 BW Zundert Phone+31 (0)76 599 0340 info@schoenmakers-ontwerp.nl www.schoenmakersadvies.nl

EVERYTHING UNDER ONE ROOF AT BINK GROEP BINK ELEKTRO, BINK BEVEILIGING, AND BINK SOLAR SPRUNDEL - BINK Groep from Sprundel has three specialised departments to

provide all electronic services; from energy-saving installations to the entire

spectrum of security and electronics. Thanks to their appropriate advice, the use

of quality products, and a great service, this family business is widely known as a reliable partner, both for businesses and private persons. BY CORINE ROKS BINK Groep employs 130 permanent employees, divided over the three

Advice, quality and service at the core of family business

departments; BINK Elektro, BINK

Beveiliging, and BINK Solar. “Our

employees are our calling card, people with an enthusiasm for the business.

Our customers notice that. I always say: “Our technicians are the ambassadors of the workplace,” said Adrie van Geel, Service and Maintenance Manager of BINK Elektro.

Niek Bink, director BINK Solar. Photo Corine Roks

Tests and inspections

At BINK Elektro, the focus is on electro

technologies for private people and

security department has its own

existing buildings. “Such as lighting

Adrie van Geel, manager Service and

protection are known examples. “In the

services of Elektro and Solar. This service

Photo Corine Roks

such as warehouses, greenhouses, and

technical activities in and around and home automation, but also

the installation and maintenance

of charging stations, sensors, and

businesses, of which burglary and fire Maintenance BINK Elektro.

intercoms.” BINK Groep is also a SCIOS

agricultural industry, large complexes

they are allowed and able to conduct

Promotion solar panels

for this. Monitoring from home is also a

Bink: “Our market shows an upward

possibility. That way, the farmer always

the mandatory inspections. We employ

has an eye on his company. Activities

certified inspectors for the entire network

such as deliveries are recorded and

of electronic installations (SCIOS Scope

stored. In case of any disputes, these

8) and for the fire risk of electrical

images can be used. We can also be

apparatus (SCIOS Scope 10). Insurers

of service here by providing a software

increasingly more often mandate these

platform. Of course, we do need written

tests and inspections. Especially Scope

permission to do this,” explains Edwin.

10 is being imposed on the agricultural Geel.

Tailor-made advice and service

Sustainability

Beveiliging is offering the customers

industry by insurers,” adds Adrie van

One of the most important tasks of BINK

A trend he notices is the demand for

advice: “We offer tailor-made advice,

sustainability in LED lighting. “In the

coming years, companies need have an energy label C. This also applies

both for new existing constructions. We Edwin van Mook, director BINK Beveiliging.

is available day and night.”

homes are very common. Longer-dis-

tance camera systems are very suitable

certified business, which means that

breakdown service on call, beside the

discuss the requests of the customer on

Director department BINK Solar, Niek trend. In 2009 we started advising,

selling, and maintaining solar panel

installations. In 2020, we installed our

hundred-thousandth solar panel.” Bink continues: “When buying solar panels, the return on investment, budget, and aesthetics play an important part.

Businesses and private persons have a

number of incentive measures to choose from. We can calculate how much the customer would save in any situation. We take into calculation the gradual

reduction of the netting arrangement.

We also help our customers with grant applications. The solar panels are

installed according to all the rules and

Photo Corine Roks

site and determine which setup would

are replacing fluorescent lighting and

Quality

during a conversation or recording. We

Company culture

led lighting.”

products. It supplies products with a long

products, with a guaranteed warranty of

technical installations, was founded

to the agricultural industry. Examples

high-pressure lamps by energy efficient Adrie continues: “In the agricultural

industry, we see an increased demand

for environmentally friendly adjustments, the result of upgraded environmental requirements.”

Customers can consult us via e-mail,

be the best option. This can be done

BINK Groep only works with quality

service life, long period of liability, and

long-lasting delivery guarantee on parts. The family business has agricultural

businesses, enterprises, collectives and private people as its customers.

by phone or through the website. For a

Camera systems

visit on site. “If desired, we can create a

Beveiliging department, about his

tailor-made advice, we can schedule a quotation, free of charge.”

Edwin van Mook, director of the BINK department that focuses on security

BINK Groep

Rucphensebaan 52, 4714 RE Sprundel info@binkgroep.eu

| +31 (0)76 599 1700

| www.binkgroep.eu

BINK Elektro

then offer a suitable solution with quality up to seven years. Of course, this advice

is also completely free of charge.” Edwin on the quality of the BINK Beveiliging

installations: “We have all the required

certifications for burglary and fire alarms and we have a lot of experience with camera systems.” He continues: “We

only supply systems with a long lifespan. They require minimum maintenance and in case of a malfunction, our

info@binkelektro.eu

BINK Beveiliging

info@binkbeveiliging.eu

regulations.”

The company, that specialises in in 1979 by father Erik Bink, in the

municipality of Zundert. Since 2018

it is located at the Rucphensebaan

in Sprundel. Son Ralph is the general manager and has been running the

company since 1995. Brother Niek and

sister Ingeborg are also involved with the

company. The company is characterised by a friendly company culture, which

makes BINK Groep a valued partner.

BINK Solar

info@binksolar.eu

SPECIAL 22

AT THE KITCHEN TABLE WITH…

PHoto: Luuk Roozeboom

“IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE INDUSTRY GETS THE TIME TO SWITCH” Entrepreneurs are

usually working on their business day and night. But what drives them?

And what are the things that keep them up at

night? In this segment of ‘Kitchen table

interviews’, we talk to

them and find out what special stories they have to share. This week:

Erik Bastiaensen

Erik Bastiaensen started out as employee at CLTV in 1993. When his boss,

another choice. CLTV offered me the

a director of CLTV for years now, and loves his job.

of weird when that day came, and I sat

Jos Goossens, retired, he was able to take over the company. Erik has been

Could you explain to us what it is that CLTV does?

knows what is important to members,

cooperative. It supplies products and

which shapes my vision for the future. The

“Originally, CLTV is an agricultural

services to its members, who are mainly

growers of strawberries, trees, and cattle breeders. Examples of products and

services are fertiliser, crop protection

products, products required for growing

and that’s how they look upon CLTV. I am more involved with operational matters, input of employees is important as well. In the end, the board is responsible for

the course of CLTV, but I do play a part in that.”

and the transportation of tree nursery

Your father had a farm; is that how you got into the profession?

seen some shifts. And I still see things

Mencia in Breda. After that, I started at

crop, but also the cooling of starting

material (strawberry plants and nursery) products. Throughout the years, we’ve changing within the company. However,

the target group and core of the activities doesn’t really change.”

Do I understand correctly that the members also own the cooperative? “Yes, you can see it like that. In theory. If

a member would leave, the cooperative would still exist. Every member is one

vote. The board is a delegation of the

members, and the board decides what happens. As director, I am responsible

for all operational matters and I am held accountable by the board.”

Who sets the course for the company; do you bring it to the board, or does it work the other way around? “It’s usually a combination. The board

“Well, I did go to school, haha. To the

the agricultural university in Wageningen. I did focus on cattle breeding. When I graduated, I started working in my

dad’s company. However, there was not enough work for me there, so I started looking for something else. Through friends of my parents I ended up at

CLTV. I started out as representative for livestock farming.”

You started out as a representative and now you’re the director. What happened in-between? “I started out at CLTV in 1993. At that time, it was a different company. It

employed 12-13 people. Jos Goossens,

my predecessor, would retire a few years later. That meant that I had to decide

whether or not I wanted to continue the business at home, or if I would make

opportunity to succeed Jos. It was kind

behind ‘his’ desk for the first time. I wasn’t even thirty at that time.”

You’ve grown from a relatively small organisation to a medium-sized organisation. Managing 50 people seems to be a tough task. How do you do that?

“Well, I don’t like the sound of ‘managing’. As if I tell everyone what to do every

morning. That is certainly not the case. The organisation is very flat, but within CLTV, we do have a few managers.

That’s one of the best features of a larger company. If you start to grow, more

people are sharing responsibilities with you, and you can complement each other.”

You’ve been the host of trade fair GrootroenPlus, and last year - its studio. What is your relationship with GrootGroenPlus? “That’s a funny thing. I’m actually

member of the board of the trade fair -

mainly because it’s very practical. We’ve been participating in GrootGroenPlus for years. When the trade fair had to move from Klein Zundert to another location, they asked if our terrain might be a

suitable solution. To be honest; I didn’t really like that idea at the time. That is why they moved to Boot en Dart for a

few years. Later on, they asked again,

and at that time, it was a good match. We were just about to start building a

PASSPORT

new strawberry warehouse. With a little inching and pinching, we managed to

make space for GrootGroenPlus. I think it is very important that something like

this is organised for the industry. It allows you to do something for the industry,

while getting some additional exposure yourself as well. It shows to the region that you are willing to take on some

social responsibility. That’s something we want to project as CLTV.”

Looking at the future, what will be the main priorities?

Goorbaan 1A, 4881MH Zundert

“We have multiple. We do have to make

some changes - we see that transport is

increasing. We need more space for that,

Name:

activities. We are currently thinking about

Erik Bastiaensen

so that it doesn’t pose limitations to other how to do that in the future. We’ll think

about that in the course of 2021. We do

face some challenges moving forward.”

The environment is becoming increasingly more important. The demand for green is increasing. However, the agricultural industry also has to follow more rules and regulations. How do you feel about these developments? “Well, I have to say that I find it very interesting. I’ve noticed that a lot is

happening in for example the nursery and strawberry industries. I’ve seen

that companies have intensified and

improved their cooperation. If a grower is innovating, he will share those

innovations with others. No one is keeping it to himself. Most growers do recognise that we have to be mindful about

using water, fertiliser, etc. The future

requires another working method. Many

additional steps are required, but I do see developments that will be implemented

on a large scale. However, it is important that the industry gets the opportunity to make the shift.”

And finally, with whom would you like to sit down? “I’ve been thinking about that, since I

knew that questions was coming. Mark

Rutte would be the most obvious choice,

but he’s so very busy already, so I think I’ll just let him enjoy his spare time. That is

why I chose Sjaak van der Tak. He is the

new chairman of LTO Nederland. He is an

advocate for the agricultural industry. I’m very curious about his plan for the next few years, especially since there are a

few advocates for the agricultural indus-

Age: 52 Company:

Tel. 076-5972370 www.debruijn-zundert.nl info@debruijn-zundert.nl

CLTV Children: Dietske (24), Teun (22), Tonke (20) and Ties (16) Married: Natasja (52) Hobby: My main hobby is working in the garden and my (hobby) farm. I have a couple of cows at home. Not that many, I’m downsizing, but I really like working with animals - it brings me a lot of joy. Four or five years ago, I had about 40 cows. Currently, I have approximately 10 left. I’m slowly downsizing.

CLTV Zundert, veelzijdige CLTV Zundert,uw your versa�leverancier! le supplier! CLTV Handel is your supplier in the agricultural industry. CLTV Winkel welcomes both agricultural professionals and private persons for products for ornamental and vegetable gardens, clothing and shoes, tools, and personal protec�on means. CLTV Koeling cools your star�ng material, such as strawberry plants and nursery products. Transportbedrijf Erik Tax collects, tranships, and transports your nursery products. CLTV Veiling can be of service in selling vegetables and fruit.

try. They do have the same objective, but not the same road to get there. I’m very curious to see how he combines these

parties, to present one vision to the politicians. I really find that fascinating.” 

Molenstraat 155, Zundert info@cltvzundert.nl +31 (0) 76 59 722 41

www.cltvzundert.nl

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