In December, the demand for exceptional products like herbs usually grows. More and more local gardeners and direct suppliers jump on this bandwagon and set themselves the challenge to be able to offer their own aromatic herbs all year round. Nursery Kiemle, which is headquartered in Bietigheim-Bissingen, is increasingly focusing on the cultivation of herbs, which are sold via wholesaler markets or directly on site.
Nicole Kiemle shows rosemary from the Kiemle fields
Domestic herbs all year round
On the Stuttgart wholesale market, people are already preparing for the approaching Christmas business. ''Standard products in the herbs' area such as parsley, chives and basil, sell very well all year round. Due to the continuous demand we try to offer these products throughout the year. At Christmas, we have noticed that mint and coriander are in greater demand, as well as more common herbs,'' says co-owner Nicole Kiemle.
In addition to their herbs, the firm also produces vegetables in its greenhouse. Olivia Kiemle shows some crispy tomatoes
The nursery's standard assortment is usually on the market from March to December. ''At the moment it looks like we can cover the Christmas business with our own goods. In January and February, however, we will have to resort to imported goods, primarily from Spain and Israel," explains Ms Kiemle. Even during the regular season, however, we notice a constant competition of products from countries like Israel and Africa.'' The herbal market is now pretty full. There are several large suppliers of regional herbs on the wholesale market as well. The main thing is that we can offer domestic goods of good quality at a reasonable price.''
Fresh chives are among the best in the regional herbal offerings
Edible flowers
Furthermore, some varieties are difficult to cultivate in this country. ''Basil for instance is very sensitive because it needs a lot of heat and light. That's why we have to use Spanish and Italian goods more frequently in this area." At the same time, according to Kiemle, there are also cultures that are gradually establishing themselves in regional trade: for example, there has been a growing demand for watercress in recent years. Significant increases were also recorded with regard to edible flowers: ''We have violets and capuchin flowers on offer. These products are very popular because of how they change the look of things, especially in the catering trade and for private customers. In this area, too, we are certainly present on the market from March to December.''
Chives are planted
Special farm for vegetable crops
Grower family Kiemle has worked in horticulture since 1925. Today, a future-oriented specialist company for vegetable crops has developed from the former mixed vegetable and flower farm. Today, a total area of over 33 hectares - both outdoor and greenhouse cultivation - is there in one location. The products are marketed by the Kiemle-Gemüse GmbH on the Stuttgart wholesale market and directly from the farm.
View into the Kiemle nursery greenhouse
For more information:
Kiemle - Gemüse GmbH
Im Erlengrund 2
74321 Bietigheim-Bissingen
Telefon: 07142 - 30318
Telefax: 07142 - 33554
E-Mail: info@gaertnerei-kiemle.de
www.gaertnerei-kiemle.de