Three generations of flower bulb growers in the Koot family

Since 1900

Flower bulb cultivation has been in our veins for a very long time.

It was around 1900 that the Koot family first started growing bulbs, at that time on a small scale combined with keeping cows. My grandfather, Jaap Koot, cultivated tulips, daffodils, crocuses, gladioli and irises, among others. In the course of time, flower bulb cultivation became the main source of income and its farming expanded. My father, Cees Koot, after growing flowers and plants for some time, took over from my grandfather and continued the flower bulb business.

Specialization in unusual Flower Bulb Species and the Crocus Sativus

In the 1980s, as the demand for unique flower bulbs increased, the market for more than just traditional plants like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths expanded. Recognizing this trend, my father decided to focus on cultivating distinctive varieties such as Colchicum (Autumnal Colchicum), Fritillaria (Emperor's Crown), Ixia (African Corn Lily), and Allium (Ornamental Garlic).

Due to his reputation in the Netherlands for cultivating special flower bulbs, my father acquired a batch of Crocus sativus bulbs from an aging grower who was closing his business. Initially, we knew little about this peculiar bulb with its hairy appearance and charming plume.

Without the aid of the internet, we conducted extensive research through domestic and international books. This revealed the unique identity of Crocus sativus as the saffron crocus, essential for producing the spice saffron. Recognizing its rarity and value, we began focusing our efforts on cultivating and propagating this extraordinary plant.

In the early years of cultivation, surging demand for quality Crocus sativus bulbs in countries like France and Italy fueled our growth. Our acreage expanded from a few square meters to several dozen hectares, transforming us from a small-scale nursery into one of the world's leading producers and exporters of Crocus sativus.

we are one of the leading growers and exporters

More than 30 years of experience in growing Crocus sativus and saffron

we have gathered a lot of information on how to best grow Crocus sativus and under what conditions in order to be able to harvest the perfect saffron. This wealth of saffron knowledge allows us to give our customers answers to most questions about cultivation and help them establish a profitable saffron crop. Therefore, if you have a question, please do not hesitate to contact us, preferably by e-mail.

Bloembollenbedrijf J.C.Koot and sativus.com

In 2005, my father passed on the cultivation and sale of Crocus sativus to my wife, Anna, and me, Jaap Koot. With this transition, the company was renamed Bloembollenbedrijf J.C. Koot, marking the start of a new chapter in our saffron journey.

Embracing the Digital Era

Recognizing the growing influence of the internet, we immediately launched our website, sativus.com, to reach a global audience. The site became a platform for sharing our enthusiasm for saffron and connecting with customers worldwide.

Opening Doors to Private Customers

To make Crocus sativus accessible to everyone, we introduced a web shop on our site. This allowed private customers to purchase bulbs in small quantities, empowering them to grow their own saffron and share in our passion for this remarkable plant.