In the latest episode of Grower for a Day from Decorum Plants & Flowers, floral enthusiast and expert Michael Perry, better known as Mr. Plant Geek, visited three different growers in one day.
From packing Zantedeschias to managing climate-controlled Gerbera production and learning delicate plant-care techniques by hand, Michael experiences firsthand the expertise, technology, and dedication behind every product florists work with. And the result is a fascinating reminder of the craftsmanship that makes our industry so special.
Stop One: Packing Zantedeschias at Vreugdenhil Bulbs & Plants
The day begins at Vreugdenhil Bulbs & Plants, where Michael joins the pick-and-pack team to help fulfill a real customer order for Zantedeschias.
What may seem like a straightforward process quickly reveals itself to be a carefully orchestrated operation. Labels, sleeves, trays, quality checks – every step matters.
As Michael enthusiastically jumps into the workflow, he discovers how much attention goes into ensuring each plant arrives in perfect condition. It’s a side of production many florists rarely get to witness, despite relying on it every day.
Watching the process unfold offers a valuable perspective: behind every beautifully presented plant is a team working tirelessly to deliver consistency and quality.
Stop Two: A High-Tech Gerbera Paradise at Fa. Martin van der Velden
Next, Michael heads to Fa. Martin van der Velden, where an astonishing 150,000 potted Gerberas leave the nursery every single week.
Here, where horticulture meets innovation, Michael gets the chance to take control of the greenhouse climate and activate the watering system, but the real eye-opener is the advanced sorting technology. Every Gerbera is automatically assessed based on flower count, width, and length before moving through the selection process.
The system ensures only the very best plants make it into the Decorum assortment.
Yet despite all the technology, the heart of the crop remains unchanged. As the team explains: "We always say it's the type of flower a child should draw. It's always a happy flower to have."
Stop Three: Learning the Art of Plant Care at Van den Berg de Lier
The final stop takes Michael to Van den Berg de Lier, a family business built over the course of four decades.
Interestingly, the company didn’t start with ornamental plants at all. Its roots were in salad production. Today, however, the nursery is entirely dedicated to growing high-quality plants. This stop offers perhaps the most hands-on lesson of the day.
Michael learns about spacing plants correctly to encourage healthy growth and discovers the precision required in disbudding – a technique in which flowers longer than 3 centimeters are removed by hand so the plant can redirect its energy into stronger development.
It’s detailed work that requires patience, skill, and, as Michael learns, surprisingly practical tools.
One piece of advice stands out: You need long nails!
A simple comment, but one that perfectly illustrates the level of manual craftsmanship still involved in modern horticulture.
Why Behind-the-Scenes Stories Matter for Florists
For florists, understanding how products are grown deepens their appreciation for the materials they use every day.
Every stem, bloom, and plant represents countless decisions made by growers: when to water, how to manage climate conditions, when to harvest, and how to maintain consistent quality throughout the year.
Seeing these processes firsthand helps bridge the gap between grower and florist, creating stronger connections throughout the supply chain.
It also provides valuable stories that florists can share with customers – stories about craftsmanship, family businesses, innovation, and passion.
Because today’s consumers increasingly want to know where their flowers come from and who grew them.
Check the complete video below.
Getting Your Hands Dirty
One of the most refreshing aspects of Decorum’s Grower for a Day series is its authenticity.
Rather than simply touring the nurseries, Michael actively participates. He packs orders, operates systems, asks questions, and experiences the challenges growers face every day.
His takeaway says it all: "I've had such a range of tasks today."
And that variety perfectly reflects the reality of modern horticulture. Growing exceptional plants and flowers requires a unique combination of science, technology, craftsmanship, and dedication.
Featured image: Michael Perry with Fa. Martin van der Velden by Decorum.
