Nature-inclusive cultivation
With a strong focus on the future and sustainability, we decided to change course in 2016. Since then, our cultivation methods have changed completely. Where we once relied on traditional practices, we now grow our crops in a way that is much closer to nature.
Founder Wilco came to an important realization: traditional cultivation methods were making it increasingly difficult to control diseases and pests. Crop protection products did not always deliver the desired results, often leading to increased use rather than reduction. At the same time, there was a growing ambition to build a future-proof business; a nursery that produces “natural products” and works in harmony with nature.
Our goals
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Grow strong, resilient plants
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Minimize the use of chemicals
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Achieve future-proof cultivation
To achieve these goals, Wilco immersed himself in regenerative agriculture and sought guidance from advisors with expertise in this innovative cultivation approach. At the time, this was pioneering work: there was little experience with nature-inclusive cultivation in the Netherlands. Through self-study, collaboration, and strong determination, a new way of growing was developed step by step. Traditional chrysanthemum cultivation gradually gave way to nature-inclusive practices.
The power of soil life
At LS Santini, soil life is central to building resilient plants. Healthy soil forms the foundation of everything we do.
A rich and balanced soil ecosystem creates symbiosis between soil and plant: the plant feeds the soil with sugars, while fungi and bacteria release minerals that nourish the plant. This natural balance results in strong plants with a reduced risk of disease.
Composting plays a key role in this cycle. We produce our own compost from plant residues, thereby closing the loop within our company.
(Watch the video on the left)
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Elimination of soil fungicides
Onze resultaten
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Healthy, well-balanced soil with no observed nematode damage
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Significantly reduced incidence of fungal diseases and insect pests
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Highly reduced use of artificial fertilizers through precision fertilization
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Prevention of runoff into ditches and groundwater
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Exclusive use of green agents and biological control methods
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Soil used as a substrate
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Intensive mechanical tillage
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Artificial fertilizers
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Soil fungicides
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Steaming (soil disinfection)
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Preventive crop protection
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Soil viewed as a living organism
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Non-inversion tillage (rotary harrowing)
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Organic fertilization (mulching)
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Utilizing biodiversity (fungi and microbes)
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Working with soil life to ensure symbiosis
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Intensive crop scouting and trap counts
Harvesting with care and craftsmanship
While many growers rely on mechanical harvesting, LS Santini takes a different approach. Our experienced team carefully selects which stems are ready to be harvested.
Hand selection allows us to harvest flowers at the optimal stage of ripeness. As a result, we deliver a uniform, high-quality product with maximum usability. The remaining stems stay rooted, ensuring optimal freshness and a longer shelf life.
Careful harvesting is an integral part of our vision as a sustainable flower grower.
LS Santini is a sustainable flower nursery
Where nature, innovation and craftsmanship come together. Every Santini we grow is the result of nature-inclusive cultivation and circular greenhouse horticulture, with respect for people, plants and the planet.
Would you like to learn more about our vision for circular greenhouse horticulture and nature-inclusive cultivation? We’re happy to share our experiences and insights. Read more about how we work, or get in touch to arrange a guided tour.