Phloxes are not only very popular in the garden, this flower is also becoming increasingly popular as a cut flower. Where Phlox was previously mainly used as a filler in bouquets, it is increasingly seen as a full-fledged flower. Rightly so! In recent years, the range has expanded enormously and the existing varieties have improved in flower size and vase life!

Hogenboom Phloxen
Hogenboom Phloxen has been specialized in breeding and growing Phloxes for many years. Together with his father, Jeroen grows high-quality Phloxes in both Kenya and the Netherlands. Hogenboom Phloxen aims to supply high-quality Phloxes in lengths 50 and 65 cm. Other lengths are possible on demand. Depending on the weather and growth, it is possible (in consultation) to supply some varieties with a length of 80/100cm. Jeroen thinks along with his customers and wants to keep up with market demand. Where most growers have bunches of Phloxes with 25 or 50 stems, Hogenboom Phloxen distinguishes itself by making bunches of 10 stems (5 bunches in a barrel). This is much more workable for wholesalers and florists who want to sell smaller numbers.

Kenya
Hogenboom Phloxen has been active in Kenya for three years, in addition to the Netherlands! Jeroen started the first production two years ago in collaboration with Geert Rooijakkers of the Kenyan company Africalla. The production peak in Kenya is in the months of November to May, which ties in very nicely with the cultivation in the Netherlands, which will start in May. In Kenya, the four varieties Crissy, Snowy, Tracy and Sweet Lexy are grown year round.

Breeding
Jeroen breeds himself and provides himself with his plant material. In recent years Jeroen has mainly focused on improving the varieties; even better vase life, better production, less susceptible to disease, etc. The 'Sweet Lexy', which is named after his daughter, is a replacement for another pink variety. The Sweet Lexy is much more colorfast in the vase than its predecessor.
“Phloxes are grateful flowers,” says Jeroen. “It is a strong flower with a good vase life. They can be cut and processed quite raw, after which the flowers open completely one by one in the vase. It is a flower that still evolves in the vase, you can see that there is life in it.”
In addition to improving the current varieties, Jeroen has also looked behind the scenes for new varieties. A wider range, different color palette; innovation for the market.

New species
This year Jeroen introduces three new varieties from Kenya. This greatly expands the range from Kenya, in particular. Jeroen expects the new varieties to go into full production from September/October. Phlox is an outdoor product and therefore really dependent on the weather. It is never quite possible to say exactly when the product will be available, but as soon as these varieties are in production, we will get back to you. To be continued….

FloraPodium, 07 juli 2022