Students from the College of Food, Agriculture and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) at Greenmount Campus have completed a study tour to the Netherlands, visiting sites in Amsterdam, Lisse and Aalsmeer. The programme focused on innovation, sustainability and diversity within the Dutch floriculture and horticulture sectors.

At Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, the group explored grounds where a team of 40 gardeners plants approximately 7 million bulbs each autumn. The flower beds are designed to synchronise blooming periods, ensuring continuous displays during the spring opening. The visit included a tour of the walled garden, Japanese country garden and a cruise through surrounding bulb fields.

The tour continued to Royal Flora Holland in Aalsmeer, described as the world’s largest international floriculture marketplace. Students observed logistics systems processing around 43 million flowers daily, with each consignment undergoing about 30 quality checks. They watched trucks moving trolleys and an overhead transport system distributing orders across the complex.

At Waterdrinker, a wholesaler and exporter serving European retailers and florists, the group examined plant displays organised in a grid layout by variety and price point. The company promotes sustainability and accessibility, with merchandising demonstrations showing plants styled with containers and accessories.

The itinerary also included visits to Amsterdam’s floating flower market and a canal cruise through the city centre. Students sampled local foods such as bitterballen and stroopwafels during their stay.

The trip provided exposure to international best practice in purchasing, sustainability and production management, and students returned with insights to apply in their coursework.

CAFRE offers horticulture and floristry courses from Level 2 to BSc (Hons) degree, with full-time, part-time and apprenticeship routes. The public can learn more at Greenmount Campus during Open Farm Weekend on 13 and 14 June.