Gerbera growers know these challenges
Finding a truly uniform seed Gerbera jamesonii serie was always a challenge. Many growers selected colours from several series, trying to create consistency. For Bruce Strevens, head grower at Hope Valley Nursery in Australia, this challenge was part of a daily reality for years.
"After nearly five decades in plant production, I know quality genetics when I see them," says Bruce, When JD Propagation introduced Gerbera jamesonii Joybera, it addressed issues that had been affecting their production for years.
Growing at Hope Valley Nursery
The crop list of Hope Valley Nursery includes Cyclamen, Gerbera, Dahlia and Kalanchoe among many others. “We work with approximately 25 acres. Around 11 acres sit under cover with the remainder grown outdoor and a small area under shade." explains Bruce.
"What sets us apart? We produce some of the young plants ourselves. That means that a part of our production runs seed to sale, which is unusual in the industry," says Bruce. "Most operations buy all young plants from specialized propagators, but we experience every stage firsthand.”
"After nearly five decades in plant production, I know quality genetics when I see them,"
The challenge with previous Gerbera genetics
Before Gerbera Joybera, they faced persistent issues that started at germination. "We often experienced large variations in performance between colours within the same series."
The impact was significant. Variability in crop yield meant they couldn't predict output. Extended sales windows left considerable room for improvement. "When you can't predict how a crop will perform or will be ready for sale, planning becomes difficult. Also efficiency suffers." That was the reality before Joybera.
Discovering Gerbera jamesonii Joybera
JD Propagation first brought Joybera genetics to Hope Valley Nursery’s attention. "We're always open to trialing new varieties. Early trials were very encouraging, so it was a simple decision."
The significant improvement in vigor and performance was very convincing. "Germination stood out immediately. Young plant vigor appeared superior to existing genetics, which aren't minor tweaks. These fundamental differences impact every stage in production.
Experiences with Gerbera Joybera
Since switching to Gerbera jamesonii Joybera, Hope Valley Nursery has seen improvements across all areas. "Yield? Up. Quality? Better. Ease of use? Significantly improved," Bruce says. "The consistency stands out most as a grower."
Joybera has helped us grow our market share with reliable results. We can now plan production with confidence. That reliability translates directly into better business outcomes."
Over the past year they gradually scaled up their Gerbera Joybera production. The ease and reliability of Joybera made the choice clear. "When you've been a grower as long as I have, you don't make changes lightly. But the results with Joybera spoke for themselves."
Recommending Joybera?
Would Bruce recommend Gerbera Joybera to other growers? "Yes, without hesitation. I see Joybera helping our business grow through consistent and replicable results. At Hope Valley Nursery we believe Joybera is the leading seed Gerbera currently on the market."