A keen horticulturalist has explained why flower pickers are already out in the fields picking daffodils.
Sharon Taylor, partner at Gee Tee Bulb Company in Moulton Seas End, took a picture opposite their warehouse of workers in a nearby field – on a sunny-but-cold morning.
There are hundreds of varieties of daffodils – the yellow-headed flower being a popular choice – signifying spring is on its way, however odd that might feel after the extreme weather of the past week.
Workers in the field opposite Gee Tee Bulb Company. PHOTO: SUBMITTED
Mrs Taylor, from Gosberton, said: “It is cold out here in the sticks and they will be out there in the morning when it is light.
“It is early to be picking but they will be picking the early flowering variety, cutting the stems to sell for bunches customers see in the supermarkets.
“Later in the year we lift the bulbs and we also get lots of bulbs from Holland as well. I am constantly looking for new varieties as the old fashioned ones are dwindling out.”
Gee Tee Bulb Company, Moulton Seas End. PHOTO: SUBMITTED
The cycle of planting, trimming, picking and lifting bulbs is weather driven – and it is unusual to see pickers out in winter weather.
Mrs Taylor has worked at the company – established more than 60 years ago – for 26 years and has brought her daughter, Kelly Walker, 30, on board.
“There is always something to learn and gardening tends to be for the mid-age to older generation.
“We need to influence the youngers to get them interested.
“My father worked in horticulture so it is in the blood.”
Mrs Taylor will take on the company, which currently is run by three partners, with her daughter in a couple of years
She added: “I am passionate about sharing my keen interest in horticulture.
“I now have a polytunnel!
“I have wanted one for years. Most women may want shoes and a handbag but I really wanted a polytunnel.”
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