History & present

Growing tulips and propagating tulip bulbs is in our blood

Our company was founded by Jaap Borst around 1910

History & present

2025

In 2025, a heat pump using a 200-metre-deep well was put into operation. This makes both heating in winter and cooling in spring, possible, while also making optimal use of unused solar energy.

In addition, two ULO cells were put into use for the biological control of mites. Double screens with dehumidification systems were installed to retain heat more efficiently. Soil moisture sensors and digital rain gauges were also installed across all fields to improve water efficiency.

2024

In 2024, the use of the selection robots continued and was expanded, enabling us to carry out selection work more efficiently and further optimise yields.

2023

In 2023, weather conditions were exceptional. Spring was unusually cold, summer was very dry and autumn extremely wet.

It was also the first year in which we actively worked with selection robots. These robots contribute to improved virus management in our cultivation.

2022

In 2022, Borst Bloembollen was featured on Discovery’s How Do They Do It? The programme showcased our tulip cultivation and forcing process.

2021

In 2021, the apartment complex for our seasonal workers was completed. We also started the first tests with selection robots, allowing us to further improve virus management in our greenhouses.

2020

In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, which also had a major impact on the flower trade. During the first few weeks, we actively supported various local initiatives. Fortunately, the flower trade picked up again afterwards.

2019

Our tulip Rambo was featured at the Golden Globes in 2019. More than 10.000 tulips decorated the tables and stage during the ceremony.

2012

In February 2012, the expansion of our tulip forcing facility was completed. The new building, including a new staff canteen and office space, was officially opened.

2008

In 2008, the company stopped growing lilies and fully specialised in tulips. That same year Jos Borst became the sole owner of the company after his brother William left the business.

2000

In 2000, a new activity was added: growing tulip flowers in greenhouses for sale through the flower auction.

1993

In 1993, Jos Borst left the company. Jos was the youngest son of Jan Borst, who had previously handed the company over to his sons.

That same year, the company became a private limited company (BV), with 15 hectares of tulips and 7 hectares of lilies.

1988

In 1988, lilies were introduced to the company. That same year, we completely stopped growing vegetables.

1985

A special moment: Jan Borst had the opportunity to show Queen Beatrix around during the Kerstflora exhibition at the RAI.

1984

In 1984, (grand)son Willem joined the company.

1974

In 1974, the company had 4 hectares of tulips, which was a sizeable area at the time. All bulbs were still planted and harvested by hand.

1946

Shortly after the war, Jan Borst took over the company from his father. He introduced tulips to the business alongside the existing vegetable cultivation.

1910

Borst Bloembollen is a true family business. The company was founded around 1910 by Jaap Borst, who initially grew vegetables exclusively.