From field to vase: the journey of dried wheat bunches
Greenflor buyer Teun visits Van der Spek nursery
Willem van der Spek from Nieuw-Vennep has been growing, harvesting and drying beautiful dried flowers for over 35 years. Demand for dried flowers continues to rise, leaving his drying sheds fuller than ever. Greenflor buyer Teun watches as fields full of fresh wheat are transformed into beautiful dried decorations.
The vast wheat fields
Wheat fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Grains dance happily in the wind. Willem van der Spek arrives smiling on his tractor. He runs family business Van Der Spek, known worldwide for quality dried flowers. On behalf of Greenflor, I have enjoyed working with Willem for many years.
"The demand for dried flowers has changed tremendously," says Willem, who has been growing dried flowers for 35 years. "Growing dried flowers has always been my passion. Since a few years, dried flowers have been popular again. Both natural and coloured dried flowers are in demand."
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Activity at Van der Spek
The wheat harvest is in full swing. "Wheat is an important grain for food and also popular as a dried flower," he says. He points to the fresh bunches of wheat machine-cut from the land. "This particular variety is ideal for drying. All the ears are at about the same height".
Sowing starts in spring, Willem explains. "In March or April, we sow the seeds. We follow the grains closely." Once approved by Willem, harvesting takes place in June, July or August, depending on the weather.
From green grains to natural beauty
Just after harvesting, the cereal grains have a green colour because the grains have not yet fully developed. The bunches are taken from the land to a warm drying shed. Piece by piece, the bunches are hung upside down here. They hang upside down for 48 hours to dry properly and get their characteristic natural colour.
The dried wheat bunches are then packed into boxes and shipped worldwide. Willem: "We supply wholesalers, flower exporters and decoration wholesalers at home and abroad. Our top quality and ideal location ensure worldwide distribution of our dried flowers."
At Greenflor, we know this top quality well. As a buyer, I have enjoyed Van der Spek's dried wheat for many years. One part remains natural, while we dye another part in trendy colours. The dried wheat bunches are beautiful decorations, whether on the wall, in a vase or in a bouquet. A product from Dutch soil to be proud of!
about Greenflor
Greenflor is the trendsetter and importer of unique flowers and natural decoration. Our passionate team selects the most extraordinary products for florists, wholesalers and garden centers. Every season, from winter to summer, we offer exclusive and perfect flowers. With our wide range of fresh and dried flowers, Greenflor ensures that you can enjoy beautiful seasonal flowers all year round.