I think a lot of you have already met flowers from South America (Colombia) and of course we hope you like them! But behind every flower and where we are sourcing them from is a story, one I’d like you to tell…
South America Direct
All the products from these growers are now possible for you to source directly, no travel stops in Holland and that brings them even fresher and faster to you! A collaboration between Hoek flowers and the best of the best local farms. It never was possible to directly import flowers from Colombia as a florist, but now you can. We selected the farms with great care. We do know the people, their stories, the products, and quality. Our team over there makes sure your order is handled the Hoek flowers way.
By purchasing flowers from Colombia, we not only contribute to the economy of the country, but also all together can make such a difference. It may not be visible right away, but every stem sourced from the farms we're doing business with, is the start of a little snowball. A snowball that can change the lives of so many. Thank you all for believing in our farms, for the appreciation of the long-lasting products and for your trust in Hoek flowers.
The beautiful country of Colombia
Let's begin with a bit of information about the beautiful country of Colombia! When you think about this country you might think of coffee and the amazing rainforest but in fact, Colombia has a spot-on climate that flowers love. There are two cities very important for the flower industry: Bogota (capital) and Medellin, why these 2? Well, the capital is located approx. 2600m above sea level and has cold nights and 19 degrees days. Perfect to grow for example Carnations, Roses and Alstroemerias. Medellin, also called the city of eternal spring, has the ultimate climate for Hydrangea and all types of summer flowers, flowers from Colombia are more than just blooms, they're the symbol of the country's spirit, resilience, colorful and undying love for nature.
Our amazing growers
Now, it is time to discuss some of our amazing growers. We source flowers from different growers in Colombia which we all appreciate very much and have long lasting connections and relationship with. For example, Flores del Este in Medellin, like us, care a lot about their employees. Around the farm, that won a prize for being the best employer in the flower business in Colombia, you'll find a flourishing community, Education and training programs are offered, there are roads, people get to work by bike. This may look ‘normal’ but to a big part of this country it's not.
“To grow their products with passion and to improve every day to supply us all with the best quality possible.“
Let me tell you a bit about our growers! As you maybe know we are doing business with growers in Colombia for a while. Some relationships go back over 25 years! It was about time to optimize our logistics from South America and to open the possibility to all our florists to buy directly from the farm. But who are you buying from? Let's do a quick introduction.
Grupo Andes (Roses)
In need of top-quality roses and spray roses grown in South America? Then definitely check out the Grupo Andes Roses assortment. A wide selection of rose varieties, colors and sizes grown in the mountains of Colombia close to the country’s capital city.
Flores el Pandero (Gypsophila)
Not all Gyps is grown in Israel or Ecuador. This amazing Gypsophila farm, run by a Colombian family, is in Zipaquira which is famous for its very impressive underground salt church.
Flores Del Este (Hydrangea)
If we’re talking about Colombian Hydrangeas, we for sure are talking about Flores del Este. This breathtaking Hydrangea farm, located just out of the city of eternal spring - Medellin, is producing the best of the best products year-round. The wellbeing of their employees and mother earth is a top priority of brother and sister Andres and Catalina Arango, who run this incredible farm.
Flores El Picacho (Carnations)
Run by the Rueda family, flores El Picacho grows one of the most beautiful assortments of carnations in Bogotá. Thanks to its small size, this family-owned farm, can maintain high quality standards in production resulting in strong and trustworthy carnations, year-round.
Geofora (Ranunculus)
How it’s possible you do have ranunculus off season? Is a question regularly asked to the lucky florists who can get their hands on ranunculus of Geoflora. Due to his good relationships with growers in Italy and years of experience as a breeder, owner Celiar Norena, managed to grow these Italian beauties in his homeland Colombia, 365 days a year.
Multiflora (Summer Flowers)
Stock, Bells of Ireland, daisies, sunflowers and many more. Is there anything they don’t grow at Multiflora? Already serving different clients from all over the world (since 1964), this MULTI-talented grower is from now on also accessible to our florists located all over the world.
Plazoleta (Alstro, Limonium, Statice, Solidago & Snapdragon)
If you’re looking for a great assortment of Colombian flowers, then Plazoleta is the grower which you need! This well-known grower has an excellent selection of Alstromeria, Limonium, Statice, Solidago and Anthirnium.. all grown 365 days a year.
Prodesab (Exotics)
Owner Gabriel started 13 years ago with growing Leucadendron and protea, which once was the dream of this father. Gabriel has such an incredible passion for the products he is growing, as well for the people working at the farm.
Suasuque (Alstroemeria)
In need of big and long lasting Alstroemeria? Then check out the perfect(ion) assortment of the Colombian grower Suasuque! Located about 35 kilometers from the capital city, this farm grows a beautiful color palette of Alstroemeria.
All the farms unique in their own way, but all with a similar philosophy:
Love, Hoek flowers