From the life of a Swiss flower producer
How and what do Swiss flower producers grow in summer? We talked to Helen Mötteli of the Flower partner store «Bluemehuus Mötteli + Co.» in Turbenthal.
Ms. Mötteli, what do you think of our idea of bouquets and arrangements with Swiss seasonal flowers from February to October?
I think it's a good time because the range is huge. For example, we have tulips, ranunculus, dianthus barbatus, bellflowers, peonies, dahlias, chrysanthemums, hypericum, scabiosas, matricarias, nigellas, burnets, grasses, lisianthus, sunflowers, zinnias, sea-lavender, hydrangeas, yarrows, safflowers, celosias, stachys, sedum, veronica, bishop's weed, various types of mint and - all year round
- gerbera and alstroemeria, to name just a few.
How do you produce, in the open field or greenhouse? And who are your customers?
60% of our production grows outdoors, 40% in greenhouses. With our products we supply mainly Swiss flower exchanges.
In addition, we sell them in our own flower store.
How important is sustainability to you?
It is very important to us. Because only if we protect nature, our survival is secured. That is why we have equipped our house roof with a photovoltaic system. This supplies energy for our business. Not only for the flower store, but also for ventilation, heating, and circulation pumps in the greenhouses. At peak times, we do need additional energy from the grid. But when we produce more energy than we consume, we feed the excess energy into the grid. In addition, in spring 22 also
started the first trials in organic cultivation.
What about pesticides and irrigation?
We do not like to use pesticides at all. That is why we work with
Effective microorganisms, which we apply regularly to strengthen
the plants. Since we started using them, our cut flower crops are
much more resistant to pests. As far as irrigation is concerned,
however, we have also been working for a long time and primarily
with rainwater, which we collect in a basin.
How do you see the status of Swiss flowers among the public?
In the food scene, regional and seasonal is already very well-known and popular. That's why I believe that a rethink will also take place when it comes to flowers. It's good that Fleurop is working hard to achieve this. Because it needs good marketing.
And that's where Fleurop is strong, as it has proven many times.
More about Swiss flowers by Fleurop
From February: bouquets and arrangements exclusively with Swiss flowers
Find out why bouquets and arrangements with Swiss flowers are sometimes shown with a sketch, sometimes with a photo and what the term Slow Flowers is all about.
From February to October, Swiss flowers have a special charm
You like «Swiss made»? Then you will surely become a fan of our bouquets and arrangements with Swiss flowers, which we offer from February to October.
Swiss flowers have only advantages - economically and ecologically
For Pascal Speck, managing director of the Bern Flower Exchange, Swiss flowers have only advantages. Read his reasoning here.
Swiss flowers have long been a hit at Toujours Plüss
Store owner Jeannette Plüss of the Fleurop partner store «Toujours Plüss» has been selling Swiss flowers for decades. She is convinced of their qualitative superiority.
From the life of a Swiss flower producer
How and what do Swiss flower producers grow in summer? We talked to Helen Mötteli of the Flower partner store «Bluemehuus Mötteli + Co.» in Turbenthal.
… and in winter when it snows?
From November to January there are hardly any Swiss flowers because it is too cold. Nevertheless, you don't have to go too far afield for stylish decorations.
Swiss Flower Day
Fancy some more Swissness? September 1 is «Swiss Flower Day» - a good reason to celebrate our native flowers.