Cheers!

    The New Limburg microbrewery around the corner launched two new beers last weekend. Perfect timing, as it was Family Day weekend. Our previous government introduced this extra day off to give families the opportunity to go out and do something fun together.

    We decided to get on our bicycles. The weather was pleasant enough for it, with 13°C, it’s unusually warm for this time of year. I have to say, the cycling tour was literally breathtaking, we’re not too fit after the winter.

    When we went to the greenhouse yesterday afternoon, the sun was shining and there was a 50% clear sky. The anti-condensation film was flapping in the wind and it nearly blew away through the ventilation windows.

    According to the weather forecast, temperatures will remain above 10°C this week and above zero until the end of the month. Quite remarkable, considering the fact that meteorologists had predicted a cold winter. The cold only lasted from the 14th until the 20th of December, plus the five cold days in all of January and February.

    Temperatures are above 10°C now – we’ve reached the double digits. Time to remove the anti-condensation film in the greenhouse.

    Confidence in the Canadian economy is fairly strong at the moment. All the fuss around Donald Trump doesn’t seem to have had too much of a negative impact yet.

    As for our day-to-day work, we’re currently dividing our bromeliads. Most of the hibiscus plants have been ordered by customers for the spring season. They’re spread out over the greenhouse and are growing well.

    This is the quiet period before the beginning of the delivery season at Easter. I’ll visit a few customers next week and show them some samples. I’m not expecting any major shifts, but it’s always good to try and make our production meet the customers’ demand.

    The first migratory birds have already been spotted. The grass is turning green, it’s going to be a long spring season. A positive sign for plant and flower sales. But first, we get to try the new ginger beer and the Belgian IPA. The brewery’s terrace is the perfect place to sit and enjoy them. Cheers!

    Angelle van Kleef,

    Potted plant grower Ontario, Canada