CNB is a Dutch flowerbulb broker which also deals in perennials like peonies. They have been hosting a peony show for some years now; showing the varieties grown by Dutch growers. Here’s a translation of their ‘press release’.
CNB Peony Days: “An edition to be proud of”.
Source: https://cnb.nl/een-editie-om-trots-op-te-zijn
After a year of absence, it felt like coming home: the CNB Dutch Peony Days were back, and how! Representative Gijs looks back with a big smile on three days full of color, fragrance, and encounters. “It remains special to celebrate the beauty of the peony together with growers, exporters, and enthusiasts.”
A record edition full of surprises.
What made this edition so special? “Besides the return after a year’s break, we really went all out this year with the decorations,” says Gijs. “The large CNB letters, a new table layout, and attention to detail gave the show a fresh look. And that while we had to switch at the last moment due to the unexpectedly high number of entries. But that of course is a luxury problem.”
With no less than 137 vases, a new record was set. “We aimed for 100, but thanks to the perfect peony weather and the flexibility of the entrants, the numbers quickly increased. Fortunately, I had brought some extra vases from Lisse,” Gijs laughs.
Favorites and winners
When asked which varieties stood out, Gijs has to think for a moment. “There were real gems among them. Of course, the winner of the Dutch Peony Awards: Colonel Owen Cousins from Peter Stap. But also Flevorite from NOP-Fleur and Hillary from Itoh Peony Plus made an impression. And then Etched Salmon, which was entered several times, and Viking Full Moon, which surprisingly won the prize for best newcomer.”
Collaboration as the key to success
The show would not have been possible without the efforts of colleagues and growers. “From picking up flowers to delivering pallets and cubic boxes – everyone contributed. Most entrants brought their flowers themselves, which made the build-up day run a little smoother. I am very grateful for that.”
An atmosphere of connection
Gijs describes the atmosphere during the days as “relaxed and enthusiastic”. “Visitors could enjoy a cup of coffee and a filled cookie from caterer Deinums, while they were surprised by the sea of flowers. The turnout was high, perhaps because the cutting season for some growers was already over. And yes, there was also room for a joke – like when Jan de Boer came by with his teddy bear Pjetro to make a video. That’s on my LinkedIn, by the way,” Gijs winks.
Preparation and innovation
The preparations start months in advance, but the real hustle and bustle is in the last week. “Then the rows are set up, vases are filled, and the decorations arranged. The biggest challenge remains the weather. Last year we had to cancel the show due to damage to the crop. This year everything went well.”
Together with the professional jury consisting of Aad Vernooy, Nico Blom, Jack de Vroomen, and Ton Meiland – this year thought was given to a possible expansion of prizes. “We are considering adding a new category next year: Best Entrant,” says Gijs. “The jury will not only look at one vase, but at all entries of a grower. This way we can reward growers who deliver top quality across the board. A great way to put our sector even more on the map.”
Future plans and personal passion
What does the future hold? “We hope for even more vases, but this year will be difficult to surpass. First, let’s cross our fingers for good weather.” Trends in cultivation are discussed during the peony meeting in November, but the show is mainly about experience.
For Gijs, the show is more than work. “It is a place where growers, exporters, and enthusiasts meet. That’s what makes it so valuable to me. And how did I end up in the peony world? After my training, I saw a vacancy in the trade magazine “Agrarisch West-Friesland”. I started during the corona period close to home, in the Enkhuizen region. And I was immediately sold.”
Finally, the inevitable question: what is your favorite peony? “A difficult one! But if I have to choose: Pillow Talk. That flower is so big and impressive in the vase. But to be honest: every peony has its charm. It just depends on the taste of the consumer.”
View the aftermovie of this year’s CNB Dutch Peony Days here:
