Sustainable cooperation
Discover the fascinating story behind Greenflor’s Oak Leaves, a story of how chance and a sustainable collaboration led to the development of a key product in Greenflor’s fall assortment. These natural beauties add a touch of rustic splendor to fall and Christmas decorations. Learn more about their sustainable cultivation and the flashy sales process that takes them from field to auction in just a few hours.
Sustainable cooperation
It all started with a special fate involving René Godrie from Achtmaal. He discovered by chance how valuable were the oak leaves he had on his land, once used for cows. This coincidence led to the development of an important product for Greenflor. Gerard de Ruijter has had a valuable relationship with the nursery for more than 30 years, a testament to their extraordinary and long-standing collaboration. He taught René Godrie how the oak leaf should be offered at the flower auction, remembering the ideal lengths and bunches of 20 branches.
Oak leaves are an indispensable element in Greenflor’s assortment. Where they add a beautiful and rustic atmosphere to Christmas wreaths and various other Christmas decorations. For many years, René Godrie consistently delivers high-quality products. The oak leaves retain their freshness for up to two weeks, making them indispensable for florists looking for durability in autumn bouquets or arrangements that must remain beautiful for a long time.
Natural beauty
Rene begins work in mid-August on a carefully prepared 7-acre field. The peak season is from mid-August to early November. The ground is sown with carefully hand-collected seeds. For the oak leaf species Quercus Rubra, it takes two years before they can be harvested for the first time. The oak leaf species Quercus Palustris requires three years before the first pruning takes place. A field can generally last 15 years. One field at the nursery has been standing for 24 years. The secret to their success is to let nature take its course.
Working with Gerard for more than 30 years, I think that says it all. Gerard is now part of the furniture
– René Godrie, oak leaf grower
Flying from field to auction
During the peak season, sales take place at a rapid pace. Within 24 hours of harvest, oak leaves are exported to the auction, where they are sold within hours. The nursery offers four different lengths: 50 cm (although it is rarely sold), 70 cm, 80 cm and 85 cm.
Oak leaf has become a crucial part of Greenflor’s range because of its beauty, durability and natural properties, and it is the result of years of dedication to quality and careful growing practices.
