Just over 100 years later, in 1949, the Mayor of Lisse at the time began to establish the gardens as a flower exhibit for European growers to come and show their wares. They are now amongst the largest flower gardens in the world, and are now named Keukenhof, or ‘Kitchen Garden’, as they stood in place of the herb gardens that supplied the original castle back in the 15th century.

This year, Keukenhof opens its doors between March 20th and May 18th, and every week invites a different Dutch grower to showcase their bulbs. Yes, we are talking tulips. All sizes, colours and variations of (hopefully) tulip shapes, along with many other varieties of Dutch spring flowers.

 Displays from the previous years have been world renowned, especially the hyacinth and the rose themed years, and have inspired gardeners keen and casual alike. With Holland and tulips taking centre stage in 2014, there’s no reason this year shouldn’t get you brimming with ideas also.

Image Source: bric72 (some rights reserved)