A garden plant is always organic, right? No! In fact, most garden plants are not. Only plants with the European quality mark, recognizable by the green flag with white stars, can be called organic. It seems that we are becoming increasingly aware of the usefulness of poison-free plants.
Garden plants treated with poison and fertilizer are still widely sold. The chemical process often starts with the seed. You don't have to eat them, so is it that important? As far as we are concerned, yes, because chemistry can be deadly for insects, which are crucial for life on earth.
Total ban
In 2016, there was a total ban on chemical pesticides for professional users, including landscaping companies and gardeners. Strangely enough, these remedies are still widely available to private individuals. Various studies by the RIVM even show that private use of chemical pesticides, including those containing the substance glyphosate, has increased.
PlanetProof
Many companies are now working on sustainable eco-friendly alternatives, and the range is increasing. Various nurseries are also treating their plants in an increasingly nature-friendly way. For example, the environmental quality mark has been in place since 2019: On The Way to PlanetProof. This label can be found on products that have a lower impact on the environment than comparable products without a quality mark. For example, at PlanetProof plants the use of crop protection products is reduced to a minimum and replaced with organic alternatives.
Organic garden plants
People are living increasingly consciously, which also increases the demand for organic plants. You cannot simply call a plant organic. The word 'organic' is protected by European law. In the Netherlands, SKAL is the organization that ensures that the quality mark is only used by parties that adhere to the rules. Companies with this certification are working purely on nature. There are several nurseries, usually smaller ones that focus on the consumer, that grow according to the rules but do not register with SKAL. Often because of the relatively high costs and administrative burden involved. Until now, organic garden plants are still scarce. On the regular market, such as in garden centers and supermarkets, the range is still very limited, mostly to herbs.
Pure nature
SKAL organic garden plants have to make do with everything nature provides. The nursery is designed in such a way that the food provides a shelter for natural enemies of harmful insects. Only natural fertilizers are used, and seeds are GMO-free. The plants are in the open ground and have a strong root system because they have sufficient time and space to develop. Compare it with seasonal vegetables at the organic supermarket. They are only offered when they are 'ripe'.
Green Up The City only works with organically grown garden and house plants, available in our concept store De Stadskas. View the range of garden plants here.