News » 20.06.2025 - Heading into summer – in the spirit of Pentecost
Peonies, Pentecost, and prices – that's what the past weeks have been all about. As summer approaches, Royal FloraHolland auctioneer Edwin Chrispijn reflects on a period in which the peony took center stage. He also shares insights into market developments and the ever-changing dynamics of supply and demand. Plus, he looks ahead to Midsummer celebrations in Scandinavia.
Pentecost and an early auction day
Last weekend was Pentecost. While Pentecost may not be widely known as a "flower holiday," churches are often adorned with flowers, white cloths, and candles during this time. It is seen as a period of connection. Typical flowers used include white lilies and roses, red carnations, peonies, and symbolic greenery such as olive branches or palm fronds.
At Royal FloraHolland, the day after Pentecost was an early auction day, where we started one hour earlier than usual. We anticipated a large volume of products and made every effort to ensure that all flowers and plants would reach our customers on time. Over 18,000 trolleys of flowers and 6,000 trolleys of plants arrived. It's always impressive to see how quickly all these products find their way to customers around the world. Flowers bring joy, comfort, and support – and we all contribute to that.
What happened in the market?
Peonies were the stars of the season. Supply was up 44% compared to last year, offering buyers plenty of choice. Despite pressure on prices, they remained stable. Matthiola and Helianthus (sunflower) also performed well in terms of volume and quality. Hydrangeas, which are also in high demand, were less available – immediately driving prices up. I work at rose auction clock C08, and I noticed that longer stems fetched good prices. Shorter roses were more abundant, which naturally affected their price.
These developments highlight the constant movement of supply and demand. The auction clock remains the fairest system for determining value.
For plants, the Tuesday after Pentecost was a challenging auction day. Still, azaleas, RFH Quality Phalaenopsis, and hibiscus sold well – also in the week leading up to Pentecost. Outdoor products struggled, as did green indoor plants. Expectations for the coming weeks remain cautious. My fellow plant auctioneers spent a lot of time last week visiting the FlowerTrials, where all the latest plant innovations are presented.
Looking ahead to (Mid)summer
Spring is drawing to a close. The peak flower days are behind us, and our focus now shifts to summer – a season full of new challenges and developments. In Scandinavia, Midsummer is celebrated around June 21–24. It's a traditional festival where flowers play an important role. People weave flower crowns, decorate a maypole, and place seven different flowers under their pillow at night. Perhaps it's a lovely idea to embrace such floral rituals in other countries too?
Flowers bring connection
The period around Pentecost shows that our sector is about more than trade and logistics. It's also about connection, inspiration, and meaning. Whether you're religious or not, the idea of togetherness and supporting one another is something we all benefit from. And how wonderful that flowers can play such a powerful role in this. So let's keep doing what we do best this summer: spreading smiles around the world with our flowers and plants.
Please note: Wednesday, June 25 will be an extra early auction day due to the NATO summit.
Source: www.floraldaily.com
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