Permanent exposition
In the booklet which the visitors will receive an extensive explanation is given on
Also is paid attention to some important persons who has contributed to the high standard of the bulb-district.
The bulb-district
In this room a presentation is given on the development of the landscape, the living and labour in the area and the history of these.
The coastal area between Haarlem and Leiden is traditionally known as the Flowerbulb District, since
bulb culture originated here. It did not happen entirely by change.
All the conditions are present for successful cultivation:
- climate: relatively mild winters and moderately warm summers
- soil composition: sandy, quick draining and rich in lime.
- controllable water table and good water management>
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The Bulb Shed The bulb shed served both as a storage space and a work area. Storage racks occupied the greater part of the available space. Hyacinth bulbs were laid out on these racks to dry before they were graded by size using the "Lelievelder" manual sorter. Bulbs which were destined for Christmas forcing remained on the racks for 6 to 7 weeks at an appropriate temperature. Bulbs to be replanted also remained on the racks. Those to be used for propagation were base-hollowed in the shed. Marketable bulbs were sent straight to the buyers. |
| Winter protection To protect the bulbs from freezing and to protect the emerging leaves from damage by wind-blown sand, the newly planted beds were covered with a layer of reeds. These were generally brought in by barge and carried on a special stretcher across the land by two men. The reeds were laid evenly by hand and held in place by an edging of soil along the side of the bed. Usually, all the work was finished by mid-December. |
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The office The old times. The office of the boss where everything was administrated. A little bit different from computers used nowadays. |
| The machines The machines of the past. Almost totally constructed out of wood and steel bars. Driven by an electric motor via a belt. Supermodern. |
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Bulbs on juice Several bulbs for a closer look. |
