A Partnership Rooted in Family — Gordale & the De Jong Legacy
Earlier this week, we experienced a truly special moment here at Gordale. Peter and Jill Nicholson reunited with Fred De Jong, the Dutchman who first introduced the Nicholson family to plants in pots back in 1956—a moment that would shape Gordale’s future for generations to come.
At that time, Fred was a travelling salesman with a keen eye for horticulture and a bold proposition. He approached Peter’s father, Harold Nicholson, with an idea that seemed quite unusual in the 1950s: selling plants in pots. Harold was initially sceptical, viewing this “new-fangled fad” with doubt. Up until then, most plants were sold bare-root, and the idea of potted plants seemed risky and unproven.
But Fred had unwavering confidence. So much so, he offered Harold a deal based on trust: take delivery of a shipment of potted plants and if they didn’t sell, they could simply be returned. It was a handshake agreement—no contracts, just mutual belief. As it turned out, none of those plants came back. Every single one sold, and that first successful shipment marked the beginning of Gordale’s journey into retail plant sales.
What started as a small venture soon blossomed. The initial 5 acres of plant space quickly became 10 acres, as customer demand grew and Gordale’s reputation for quality plants spread. That chance meeting with Fred De Jong was not just a successful business deal—it was the beginning of a friendship and a partnership that has endured for nearly 70 years. Explore our extensive range of potted plants and seasonal favourites.
Today, the connection with the De Jong family remains just as strong. Fred’s grandsons, Rick and Martin De Jong, now represent the third generation of their family business, working alongside Gordale in a partnership rooted in mutual trust, respect, and shared passion for horticulture.
Moments like these remind us of the importance of family businesses—how long-standing relationships can shape not just a business’s growth, but its very identity.
Learn more about Gordale’s history and how our family business has grown since 1948.
