Brothers Jan-Jippe and Tjerk Holwerda grow broccoli on the Wadden coast in northern Friesland.

Brothers Jan-Jippe and Tjerk Holwerda grow broccoli on the Wadden coast in northern Friesland. The farm’s location plays an important role. The cool, humid climate allows the broccoli to grow slowly and steadily. These conditions are central to the story behind their produce.

Growing in harmony with the climate

Broccoli thrives in temperate conditions. On the Wadden coast, temperatures are rarely extremely high or low, and the fresh sea breeze keeps the climate naturally moderate. The broccoli’s slower growth contributes to its quality and shelf life.

The soil also plays a role. The broccoli is grown on land where vegetables had not previously been cultivated. The combination of location, soil and growing expertise provides an important foundation for the business.

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Lower pest pressure

The natural conditions at the site also help limit pests, reducing the need for crop protection. The brothers combine this with efficient weed control and careful cultivation. The company also works to various sustainability and quality standards, including PlanetProof, GLOBALG.A.P. and GRASP.

From grower to the next link in the chain

The Holwerda family maintains control of the product beyond cultivation. Alongside growing, broccoli is also processed on the farm, bringing harvesting, grading and packing closely together.

This reflects the way Jan-Jippe and Tjerk run their business: drawing on the strengths of their surroundings, caring for the crop and focusing on an efficient supply chain.