Tilburg Orchids

Discover the thriving universe of Tilburg Orchids, where beautiful Cymbidium orchids flourish in a 30,000m² greenhouse. Han van Tilburg shares his insights on the art and challenges of growing these extraordinary blooms.

Enter the lively world of Tilburg Orchids, where a stunning variety of Cymbidium orchids thrives in a sprawling 30,000m² greenhouse destined for every corner of the globe. Three years ago, Han van Tilburg took the helm of this flourishing nursery. In this article, we sit down with him to explore the art—and challenges—of cultivating these magnificent orchids. Are you ready to join the journey?

The origins of the nursery

It all started with Peter van Tilburg, who ventured into growing Cymbidiums. He bought a nursery in the heart of Rijnsburg and started this challenge. One of his sons, Han van Tilburg, had no intention of taking over the business. After graduating with a degree in 'small business & retail management', he had the desire to have his own business and so it came to pass that he wanted to take over his father's business. Three years ago, the moment was there. Although his father still lends a helping hand every morning, Han now manages the entire operation.

A patient crop

Growing Cymbidium proves to be a painstaking and time-consuming process. Han explains: 'It takes several years for the plant to reach its full production potential in the greenhouse. Only in the fifth year does the Cymbidium produce good stems. Once the plant flowers, you can harvest it for 10 years. Harvesting takes place over a period of six to eight weeks. The plant is then 'ripped' into several plants, which are then set up. Some plants produce up to 30 stems, while others give only three or four.'.

Dedicated working days

Every day, a team of five cuts Cymbidiums for sale. Every morning, the branches are tied up, sending them to grow upwards. After all, only the straight stems can be sold. So it's fair to say that the Cymbidium is a plant that involves a lot of handling and care. Han is convinced that this hands-on approach will remain, as he expects the process to be too complicated for mechanisation.

Assortment

There are six different colours of Cymbium. The main colours are white, yellow, pink and green. There is also orange/brown and red. You will find all these colours at Van Tilburg Orchids. Based on last year's sales, the new assortment is determined. It is difficult to determine in advance which colour will sell well next year, because according to Han it is impossible to tell. 'One year customers like to buy a lot of white at Christmas, the next year a bit more red.'

Global export

From their home base in Rijnsburg, Tilburg Orchids exports many of their flowers to far-flung destinations such as Asia, the Middle East and southern Europe. Around Thanksgiving, the demand for orange branches rises in America. Those are indeed days that are taken into account in terms of colour supply.

We are impressed by the laborious process of the Cymbidum and now look at it with a whole new perspective. We thank Han for taking the time to take us through the growing process!

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