The market for Gerbera flowers has seen a downturn in recent years, but according to Schoneveld Breeding, Joybera has turned the tide. "Joybera is setting a new benchmark in the Gerbera world, offering a unique plant that is shaking up the industry. We wanted to deliver something better than what was available at the time, and we've done just that," says growing support specialist Hassan Hadid with enthusiasm.
Joybera offers a burst of blooms on a uniform plant. Hassan explains: "From the start, Joybera blooms with three flowers at once, and in some cases, the number of flowers can exceed 10 during the blooming period. Consumers can also enjoy these flowers for an extended time—lasting 5 to 6 weeks on average, with some even blooming longer."
Key Features
"Joybera is extremely uniform," adds fellow crop support specialist Ton, highlighting the value this offers growers. "Up to 80% of the crop can be harvested at once." Achieving such uniformity requires high-quality starting material, but growers also need to play their part. "Watering correctly is essential," Hassan clarifies. "You need to keep the plants slightly drier at the right moment." After the initial watering, the roots should be encouraged to grow deeper in search of water and nutrients by reducing the water supply. "This creates a stronger root system, which leads to a more resilient plant."
The Added Value of Growing Support
With years of experience as a crop and plant protection specialist, Hassan knows Schoneveld Breeding's products inside and out. Together with Ton and the growing support team, he assists growers in cultivating Joybera. "It's a new product, so there's a sense of anticipation for growers," Hassan notes. "We stay in regular contact, visit often, and work closely with growers to help them get the most out of our genetics."
Good resistance is crucial. "Gerbera plants require extra attention when it comes to crop protection, and this is equally true for our Joybera," Hassan explains. A well-structured crop protection plan is essential. Additionally, proper nutrient balance is critical, and Hassan provides growers with the right fertilization ratios. For example, iron and magnesium should be supplied in higher quantities to ensure strong plants with vibrant leaves and bright flowers. "We stay involved throughout the growing process to guide growers through this complex stage," says Hassan. "This gives them peace of mind—they're not doing it alone."
Eyes and Ears for Breeding
As the "eyes and ears" of the market, Hassan quickly spots any challenges growers face and listens to their needs. This valuable feedback helps the breeding department enhance existing products. "New colors, different sizes—we hear what growers need, and this information is extremely valuable for our breeding colleagues."
By maintaining close relationships with growers, Schoneveld Breeding stays ahead of innovation and development trends. Growers can trust they are receiving top-quality genetics. "We don't just hand over seeds," Ton emphasizes. "Before launching a product, we test it extensively, and then trial it internally and externally with growers to study how specific conditions impact the crop."
Knowledge Base
Schoneveld Breeding has compiled extensive information on a wide range of topics, including different climates, fertilization techniques, and potting soils. This knowledge base, filled with detailed cultivation instructions and answers to a wide variety of questions, is designed to help growers optimize their production. Why all this effort? Hassan explains, "At Schoneveld Breeding, our work doesn't stop with delivering a packet of seeds. We provide added value—from seed to plant."
For more information:
Schoneveld Breeding
www.schoneveld-breeding.com