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Martin Nielsen and Vallø Blomster: A Nursery in Tune with the Seasons

For Martin Nielsen, owner of the nursery Vallø Blomster, flowers are much more than a business—they are a vital part of life. At his nursery, located south of Køge just outside Copenhagen, blooming plants fill the greenhouses all year round, whether it’s spring, summer, autumn, or winter.

Unlike most modern nurseries, which often choose to specialize in just one or two types of plants, Martin Nielsen has taken a different approach. He lets the natural rhythm of the seasons guide his production plan, making sure that customers can always find flowers that truly suit the current time of year—from cheerful spring primroses to Aster novi-belgii in late summer, or festive poinsettias and Christmas roses when winter returns.

“It is certainly a challenge to simultaneously cultivate three or four different crops, all with their unique needs for space, temperature, and care,” Nielsen explains. “But that’s exactly what keeps my work exciting. It’s a puzzle that demands true creativity and craft—and as a reward, I’m always surrounded by flowers.”

Always a Reason to See Something New

Even as the days grow shorter, Vallø Blomster’s greenhouses remain lively. Late summer and autumn are celebrated with bold drifts of asters in vibrant blue and red hues, as well as aromatic lavender—perfect for reviving tired containers on balconies and patios. During this period, the nursery also boasts an extensive selection of flowering perennials, giving customers an array of options when garden containers need a refresh after the summer.

Planting for the Late-Summer Mood

“Late summer is a wonderful time of year, and thankfully more and more people are discovering just how many ways flowers can enhance that special late-summer mood,” says Nielsen. He notes that after returning from holidays, many people find their spring plantings past their prime. According to him, this is the perfect time to reinvigorate outdoor spaces with something new and seasonal. “There’s little point in simply growing geraniums in large numbers year-round—it’s better to introduce options like asters and lavender, which are natural successors to summer blooms.”

Extending the Summer with Seasonal Flowers

Demand for late-summer plants peaks in August as customers transition from vacations back to daily routines. Nielsen reflects, “Honestly, the season for these blooms could—and should—be much longer. Late-summer flowers have extended periods of beauty, but as autumn gets closer, people often hesitate. They might think it’s too late in the year, or they still feel the pinch in their wallets after summer. That’s a challenge for us as growers: we need to inspire, advise, and show what’s possible for anyone wanting to make summer last just a little longer.”

Enjoying Flowers in the Moment

Vallø Blomster has also noticed that customers in late summer prefer large, lush plants that are ready to make an impact right away—no one wants to start from scratch as autumn approaches. Martin Nielsen ensures his selection provides instant beauty, so customers can fully enjoy every remaining warm day in surroundings that feel abundant and flourishing.

He observes a clear shift in attitudes: “People aren’t as worried about overwintering plants as they used to be. Flowers are affordable, and they don’t need to survive for years. The key is to enjoy them now—at their very best.” As an example, he mentions the ever-increasing popularity of Aster novi-belgii: “Initially, people assumed these plants were perennial and were disappointed they wouldn’t survive winter. Now, more and more customers know they’re annuals and embrace them for the season, which has made their popularity skyrocket.”

Instant Color for Every Space

As summer fades, Vallø Blomster makes it easy to keep patios and balconies attractive. Whether it’s a single aster or a mix of late-flowering perennials, customers can enjoy immediate results—no waiting required.

Staying Close to the Customer

Thanks to the nursery’s location near Copenhagen and a prominent stall in the city’s Grønttorvet market, Martin Nielsen benefits from close contact with his customers. Few other growers enjoy such direct feedback. “Trends really guide the flower market—color, shape, and variety have to align exactly with the current mood, or the flowers simply won’t sell,” he says. Nielsen keeps a sharp eye on which items customers pick at Grønttorvet, and he pays special attention to trendsetting shops and individuals who seek out distinctive varieties. Their choices become important reference points for planning next season’s crop.

“Our experience from the market is a benchmark for what we do next year—ensuring that no matter when you visit Vallø Blomster, you’ll always find something that fits both the time and the latest gardening trends,” Martin Nielsen concludes.

In Tune with the Seasons and the Customer

With his deep understanding of plants and people, Martin Nielsen continues to prove that a nursery can flourish year-round—provided it blooms in harmony with both the seasons and the ever-changing desires of its customers.