The last crop of cucumbers is growing at Kwekerij de Kreek in 's-Gravendeel, Netherlands. It is the third of three rounds of cucumbers this year, but also the very last round. Grower Kees de Kreek is retiring, and his son Wim has decided not to take over the 1.6-hectare farm. The decision was made a few years ago, allowing the growers to close down the operation smoothly. "On 1 November, the demolition crew will come," Kees announced from the back of the greenhouse on Tuesday morning, while his son Wim was busy sorting.
Production and prices
The current crop is satisfying for the growers. "In the second round of cucumbers, we did not interplant, so we had slightly less production, but we are still on track for a higher yield than last year. I expect to end up around 165."
At the end of August, cucumber prices are at high levels. "Financially, things are going well," says Kees. "They cost almost 1 euro each at the moment." Nursery de Kreek will continue harvesting this last season until mid-October. After that, the greenhouse will be demolished, making way for housing under the space-for-space scheme.
Experience
Wim decided not to take over the business due to the company size, rising costs, and the age of the operation. Continuing to grow at the current location was not feasible. Besides, he did not see the benefit of "taking the risk alone with such a business," as he mentioned on LinkedIn, along with a photo of a healthy crop at the end of August.
The growers' experience with greenhouses will not be lost. Wim will join a potted plant grower, and Kees will retire, although he mentioned that if asked about his experience, he might consider doing something with it in some form. "But I don't have any plans right now." First, they will finish the current crop, which also includes a small amount of tomatoes and peppers for home sales. Regular customers were already informed of the nursery's impending closure this summer.