After a dip in 2024, the total area of fruit grown under glass in the Netherlands has seen a slight increase, according to preliminary figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS). The current area stands at 120 hectares, reversing a trend of steady decline in recent years. The number of growers involved in greenhouse fruit production is 94, although strawberries are not included in these figures.
The area planted with raspberries remains stable at 30 hectares, and blackberries hold steady at 20 hectares. On average, growers cultivate around 1 hectare of brambles or raspberries under glass.
The remaining 70 hectares are dedicated to other types of soft fruit, including various berry species, an increase of 20 hectares compared to 2024.
CBS has only been distinguishing between different types of greenhouse-grown fruit since 2017. One standout newcomer in this category is the kiwifruit. A grower in the Westland region has recently started cultivating kiwis under glass, alongside an existing crop of greenhouse-grown cherries.
© CBS
No strawberries
Earlier this year, preliminary figures were also released for greenhouse vegetables, which do include strawberries. Notably, the data showed an increase (link in Dutch) in the area devoted to tomatoes and bell peppers. In total, the area used for greenhouse vegetable cultivation in 2024 amounted to 5,760 hectares.
However, it's important not to draw quick conclusions based on these early numbers. As part of its agricultural census, CBS collects data on greenhouse area by asking growers to report the total surface area needed for cultivation, including walkways and service paths inside the greenhouse.
CBS also includes a wide range of other crops under the greenhouse vegetable category, such as endive, zucchini, lettuce, radishes, culinary herbs, and melons.
In spring 2024, CBS published additional data and provided clarification (link in Dutch) on discrepancies between different types of agricultural surveys, helping to explain why figures might vary.
