At the end of the 16th century the first bulbs arrived in The Netherlands from Turkey. Soon the Dutch started the first professional Flowerbulb-nurseries . The first started around Haarlem and Leiden with Lisse as the Bulb-capital in the center . The famous Dutch National Bulb Garden ‘Keukenhof‘ is also a part of this first bulb-area in Holland. Later also other areas became suitable for bulb-growing . Another big area is between Alkmaar and Den Helder during the last few decades a lot of grass for cows changed into bulb-fields.
In their search for a black tulip ( Queen of the night and Black Parrot came close ) many different varieties of the Tulip were born. Also the Dutch Trading-companies with their famous Dutch Trading-spirit discovered the tulip-bulb . The Tulip was subject of investments and speculations and the Dutch Goverment was forced to interfere. This resulted in a lowering of the value within 24 hrs. This period was called ‘Tulipmania’
Not only the Tulip came from outside The Netherlands but also other famous Dutch bulbs have their roots in far-away countries. Dahlia’s have their origen in Mexico and for example Freesia and Calla ( Zantedeschia ) are from South Africa . The Dutch approximation of bulb-breeding and the perfect climate and soil made Holland the biggest grower and trader in bulbs in the world.
In the year 1960 the tulip-areas where around 10.000 ha with 13.000 growers and in 2010 the areas are 24.500 ha with( only ) 1200 growers.
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Wow1 Thanks for sharing!
Reblogged this on The Salem Garden and commented:
The experience of visiting Holland when the tulips are blooming sits at the top of my bucket list, along with visiting the Anne Frank museum… some day I just have to get there! In the meantime I’m enjoying this beautiful post by Michael at Florafocus. Michael’s blogs from a global gardening and design perspective and features amazing places all
over the world. Very fun reading on a cold New England Day! Enjoy! Michele
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