It could take growers in Holland one or two years to sell their land, move here and set up operations. Because the Dutch growers are getting such good prices for their land in Holland, they have capital for buying land in Ontario. Some growers, nevertheless, will be borrowing for expansion after they are established and they should be attractive to financial institutions, Thompson says. With 250 greenhouse operations occupying 1.25 million square metres, the Niagara area is already a success story in greenhouse growing, Thompson says. Niagara is the largest floral greenhouse area in Canada, but we currently have relatively little in the way of greenhouse vegetable production.
Suitable vegetables are primarily tomatoes, seedless cucumbers and, potentially, peppers.
This type of produce will complement the floral business rather than competing with it. Niagara's goal in the next three years is 55 acres, says Thompson. Satisfying that market will take ingenuity and a long-term commitment to quality greenhouse vegetable operations. The Dutch have an outstanding international reputation in both areas and may step in where some Ontario growers are hesitant - or capital short. However, this leap is necessary in order to remain competitive.