Five questions for… PolderPride, a collective of Dutch Tulip growers
What is PolderPride, and how do Dutch Tulip growers work together in this collective? We spoke with Sandra de Wit, sales representative at PolderPride, and Patrick Smal from Smal Bloembollen BV, one of the affiliated growers. We asked them five questions about their approach, product range, and vision for the future.
What exactly is PolderPride?
PolderPride is a collaboration of seven Dutch Tulip growers, established in 2010. By joining forces, we offer a wide and high-quality assortment of Tulips, all grown in the Netherlands. All members share the same values: being customer-focused, delivering consistent quality, and continuing to innovate.
The name ‘PolderPride’ reflects the pride in our roots: the Dutch polder landscape where many of our Tulips are grown. By working under one brand and using our signature blue packaging, our Tulips are easily recognized. Only Tulips that meet our quality standards are packed under the PolderPride label. Customers recognize our Tulips by their strong stems, good vase life, and uniform bunches.
Can you explain the process from bulb to Tulip?
The process from bulb to Tulip takes about two to three years. First, the small bulb grows outside in the open ground for one year. The following year, it grows again to become a marketable (large) bulb. In the third year, the forcing bulb is used to produce a cut Tulip. After harvesting, we store the bulbs under controlled conditions. During the forcing process, we control light, temperature, and humidity to ensure the Tulips bloom precisely on time. Because we both cultivate flower bulbs and force Tulips, we have control over the beginning of the supply chain. This allows us to manage quality and blooming time, making us flexible and reliable.
Every market is different – how do you handle that?
Our Tulips are exported worldwide. Each market has its own preferences and seasonal demands. As a collective, we can adapt quickly to those needs. Some customers want large volumes of one variety, while others seek a wide mix. Some markets prefer bright colors; others favor soft pastels. We respond to all these preferences while maintaining our high quality standards.
What are important developments in the flower industry?
The sector is constantly evolving. One significant development is automation. Think of planting robots, bunching machines, and robotics for selecting diseased bulbs, as well as climate computers that precisely monitor the growth process. This allows us to work more efficiently and reduce errors.
Additionally, sustainability is a major driver for innovation. There is extensive research being conducted in the areas of biological agents, energy, and water usage. Digitalization is also playing an increasingly important role, from cultivation registration to sales and logistics.
What do you love most about working with Tulips?
For many of us, the best moment is when the first Tulips of the season start blooming. When the greenhouse is filled with fresh, colorful flowers, and you see that all the care and effort have paid off – that feeling never gets old. Tulips are a living product, and every season brings new challenges. That keeps our work interesting and rewarding.
Tulips in the Holex Flower Webshop
At Holex Flower, we value the dedication and expertise of growers like Smal Bloembollen BV and the PolderPride collective, who fit perfectly into our Tulip assortment. In our webshop, you’ll find a wide range of premium Tulips – from classic varieties to unique specialties. Explore the full Tulip selection and place your order easily via the Holex Flower webshop!
