Growing a pre-potted Amaryllis involves a high degree of precision, from the arrival of the bulbs to their placement in the greenhouse. Teun Pronk, Operations Manager at Kébol, shares in this interview how he and his team ensure a smooth process and consistent quality.
Teun has been responsible for planning the potting of Amaryllis bulbs for nearly five years. This process begins with the arrival of the bulbs in the Netherlands. “It’s essential to be precise from the very first moment,” he explains. “As soon as the bulbs arrive, they are carefully inspected for bulb size, diseases, and molds.”
After inspection, the team determines whether the flower bud is positioned high enough within the bulb. “If the bud is not at the correct height, we place the bulbs in a cold room at 13 degrees to encourage further development,” Teun explains. “At this temperature, the flower bud continues to grow. Once the bud reaches the desired height, we lower the temperature to 5 degrees to slow down development.”
During this process, progress is closely monitored. Weekly, inspectors check samples of the bulbs by slicing them open and measuring the flower’s length.
When the bulbs are ready for potting, the work follows a strict schedule. “Based on sales targets, we know when the bulbs need to go through the potting machines,” Teun explains. The potted bulbs are then watered and placed in the greenhouse, where they remain for about four weeks. Watch the video about the Amaryllis potting process.
Teun highlights some of the challenges associated with potting. The biggest challenge is to follow the schedule precisely to ensure the bulbs are available for sale on time and in the correct mix. Another important point is achieving uniform quality. The potted Amaryllis in each tray must have the same height and a uniform appearance. This season’s assortment includes 14 cm and 17 cm pots, with the potted Amaryllis delivered with either an Amorita pot cover or a stake label.
In addition, the team must continuously respond to demand at the auction. “Auctioning too early or too late can mean a lower price. It’s crucial to have a large supply ready at precisely the right moment.” As Operations Manager, Teun is co-responsible for ensuring a successful Amaryllis sales season.
Potting Amaryllis is an intensive process involving a team of about fifteen people. The entire trajectory, from the arrival of the first containers in May to sales in October, November, and December, can take between three and six months. With the right balance of careful planning and precise inspections, Teun and the Kébol team ensure that each season they deliver high-quality potted Amaryllis products. For any questions, please feel free to contact us!
Our Bare Root Perennial program has been expanded for the upcoming season! With the removal of the original 15,000 plant minimum, all customers now have
Growing a pre-potted Amaryllis involves a high degree of precision, from the arrival of the bulbs to their placement in the greenhouse. Teun Pronk, Operations
Our potting machines are running and the CC carts are filled with the Amaryllis bulbs for the seeding stage. 14cm and 17cm pots are available
