How did you get involved in the seed industry?
After many years in South Africa, I returned to Holland with my family. I joined Sahin Zaden B.V. in a Customer Service role close to home. Although new to horticulture, my language skills and background were a good fit—and I had excellent tutors in Kees and Elisabeth Sahin.
What is your function at Sahin Zaden?
I grew into Account & Product Manager for Home Garden products—input in breeding, account management, forecasting, assortment maintenance, price lists, catalogues and more.
What changed after Takii took over Sahin in 2007?
Hybrids moved to Takii’s professional assortment; true home‑garden lines remained as SAHIN. We responsibly reduced an active assortment of ~3000 flower varieties to focus on what could be produced, tested, and maintained to our standards.
Is there a benefit to being based in The Netherlands?
Yes—the Netherlands has long been the heart of seed production, and proximity helps.
How many varieties are in the assortment?
Around 550 active varieties—about 10% vegetables.
What seed types are you specialised in?
Flower seeds for the Home Gardener—favorites like Sunflower, Cosmos, Calendulas—often with a twist.
What makes SAHIN seeds special?
Innovative varieties, dependable quality, and a deeply experienced team.
How do you create a new variety?
We isolate and stabilise spontaneous deviations, cross to combine traits, and hybridise where appropriate—developing both open‑pollinated lines and hybrids.
How long does breeding take?
Anywhere from 3 to 10+ years, depending on the crop.
How many new varieties per year?
We aim to introduce 30–40 new varieties annually.
Most fun part of the work?
Our outdoor trial field in Zeeland each summer—seeing everything in full flower and welcoming customers for inspiration. Most photos on FontanaSeeds.com were taken there!
Why is it fun to work at Takii?
Takii is a longstanding family company. The Home Garden division runs with the same care you’d expect from family.
How has the industry changed?
Consolidation over the last 10–15 years has reduced the number of especially flower‑seed breeding companies.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
That the SAHIN brand remains a byword for innovation and quality.
Biggest challenge for breeders?
Producing commercial quantities across many varieties is increasingly complex due to evolving country regulations.
Do home gardeners make many mistakes?
Most are experienced—and with clear instructions (like on packet backs), anyone can grow their own.
How do you know you’ve found a winner?
Experience—and that unmistakable tingly feeling.
Are your seeds genetically modified (GMO)?
No.
Are your seeds organic?
We offer both conventional and organically grown varieties. Takii Europe has been licensed for organic production since October 2019.
How long can seeds be stored?
From one season up to 10–20 years—crop‑dependent and storage‑condition dependent.
Did Covid‑19 impact the seed industry?
Yes—cut flowers suffered early on, but home‑garden seed demand rose globally as people began sowing.
Are SAHIN packets better than supermarket seeds?
SAHIN seeds are tested for high germination and trueness-to-type. The slightly higher price returns more joy through successful sowing.
What do you expect in the future?
Sustainability and self‑reliance will drive more people to home gardening: every bit helps.
Do you grow seeds in your own garden?
I have a small balcony now; I plan to return to an allotment when time allows.
Favourite seeds and flowers?
Veggies like squash, green beans, and herbs. For flowers: Zinnias—vivid colours and long‑lasting in a vase.
If you had to pick three SAHIN varieties?
The compact, edible Nasturtium Series; California Poppy ‘Thai Silk’ series (earliest bloomers); and Zinnia Dahlia‑flowered—stunning colours and very easy to grow.