In the spotlights
The ranunculus Butterfly is currently grown in only three countries. In Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands. The advantage of breeding in different countries is that the production season is longer. Production begins in Italy, then Portugal and afterwards in the Netherlands.
Monarch Flowers is the Dutch breeder of the Ranunculus Butterfly series. Monarch Flowers is located in ‘s-Gravenzande with three greenhouses and with one greenhouse in Hoek van Holland.
In October, the cuttings, derived from tissue culture, are planted. Ranunculus is a frost free, cold cultivation. The goal is to let the plant grow slowly which ensures an optimal quality. In March, the first flowers are mature enough to cut.
The production continues through mid-May. After that, the temperature is too high and the plant gets too much light. The plants are grubbed and put to rest.
In October, the tubers can be planted again, so that the process can start all over.
Origin
The Ranunculus Butterfly is a whole new variety originating from Japan. We all know the stuffed Ranunculus, but in origin this flower is single flowered. But with the Ranunculus Butterfly we go back to the genes of the first botanic ranunculus.
This Ranunculus is unique because of its shape. The Butterfly has seven to twelve flowers per stem and much more leaves than the normal Ranunculus. The petals have a small wax coating that gives the flowers a shine and additionally ensures a longer vase life. Because of this, the consumers will be able to enjoy this lovely spring flower for a long time.
The Ranunculus is a great addition to a field bouquet, which are very popular at the moment.
Ranunculus Butterfly is reproduced by tissue culture. There are many different way of tissue culture. But in short, it means that plant cells or plant cuttings will grow on a germinated breeding medium where new sprouts will grow. Because this happens in a laboratory, reproduction can be accelerated and higher numbers can be produced than would have been possible otherwise. It’s very important however to work in a sterile environment. If the plants are infected with bacteria, it will cause the plants to rot.
Care
Ranunculus Butterfly is a very strong flower. With proper care you can enjoy this lovely spring flower for at least two weeks.
Use a clean vase and fill it with a small layer of water and the right concentration of flower food.
The Ranunculus is very sensitive to bacteria, so it’s better not to fill the vase with too much water. Better to use only a small layer of water and to refill the vase with clear water every day.
Cut the stem, with a clean sharp knife, before you put them in the water.
Put the Ranunculus in a cool place, avoid direct sunlight.
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