How about a tale of roses and resilience right here at Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff? This place carries a legacy woven through a century of horticultural dedication. It is a story of family, flowers, and fighting back against formidable odds.
Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff began its journey in 1904. Victor Teschendorff, the founder, took over the firm of Bernhard Hähnel in Dresden-Reick. He then moved the business to Cossebaude. He started building it into one of Germany’s biggest tree nurseries.
Victor Teschendorff wasn’t just a businessman. He was a visionary. He had trained at prestigious institutions. These included the Higher Horticultural Teaching Institute in Geisenheim. He gained experience across Europe. He worked in Austria and France. This international exposure shaped his approach to horticulture.
By 1914, Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff owned 20 hectares of land. By 1945, including leased land, it had grown to 60 hectares. Its reach extended far beyond Germany. They exported plants to Austria, Switzerland, and Czechoslovakia. They even reached Scandinavia. The company issued catalogs in multiple languages. These included French, Czech and Polish. Correspondence happened in many languages. This showed its international significance.
The 20th century was not always kind. Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff faced numerous setbacks. Floods in 1920, 1940 and 2002 devastated the area. Frost damage harmed the roses. Pests caused problems. Despite these challenges, the Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff persevered.
After World War II, survival meant adapting. To meet government quotas, employees grew vegetables between the rows of trees. Even between individual plants they grew vegetables.
Victor Teschendorff played a vital role in horticultural organizations. He served on committees. He was chairman of the Saxon Association. He was a board member of the German Rose Society.
After the war, East Germany’s communist government took control. In 1959, the state took a stake in the company. By 1972, it was nationalized. It became part of VEG Saatzucht Baumschulen Dresden. VEG was an East German collective farm.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 1990, after German reunification, the family regained control. They reopened as Victor Teschendorff KG Garten-Center.
The spirit of Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff lived on. They offered quality plants and expert advice. In 2004, they celebrated their 100th anniversary. Despite ceasing operations in 2007, the legacy remains. The story of Baum- und Rosenschule Teschendorff is a reminder of the enduring power of passion. It shows the ability to grow beauty even in the face of adversity.