The Dutch flower bulb sector stands on the brink of major transformation. 
Sustainability is no longer a choice, it is a necessity. Societal pressure to produce in an environmentally friendly way is increasing, and the industry is also facing ever-stricter regulations regarding crop protection and soil use.
Pilot project for sustainable bulb cultivation successfully completed
The completion of the research project Duurzame Teelt van Tulp en Bijgoed (Sustainable Cultivation of Tulips and Companion Bulbs – Pilot 5) marks a significant step forward in the pursuit of more sustainable flower bulb cultivation. This pilot is part of the broader practical program “Weerbaarheid in Praktijk” (Resilience in Practice), supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN). In collaboration with six innovative bulb growers, various sustainable cultivation methods were tested under real-world conditions.
Practice-based research by the growers themselves
What makes this pilot unique? The direct involvement of the growers. The project began with four participants and gradually expanded to include six growers, each contributing their own expertise to solve different parts of the sustainability puzzle.
Focus on resilience
A key principle of the project is enhancing crop resilience. Instead of merely treating symptoms, the focus is on root causes: How can plants be made stronger and more resistant to diseases and pests? This requires a different mindset and approach to cultivation. Experiments included various organic treatments as well as innovative mechanical techniques.
Growers noted that the success of these methods often depended on timing and specific conditions. Not every trial delivered the desired results right away, but this iterative process is precisely the project’s strength. Insights are shared, results are discussed, and improvements are implemented in the following seasons. 
Tulip gall mite, the biggest challenge
One urgent issue facing the sector is the fight against tulip gall mite. Due to tighter regulations, many conventional products are being phased out, while new biological alternatives are still under development or not yet adequately tested. This puts considerable pressure on growers.
This challenge also affects exports, where quality issues caused by pests and diseases can lead to reputational damage and loss of customers.
Mechanical weed control and knowledge sharing
Progress has also been made in the area of mechanical weed control, with various machines tested in practical settings.
Knowledge sharing is a cornerstone of the program, taking place through industry exhibitions, webinars, and other live events. The collaborative effort is supported by partners such as KAVB, Vertify, Artemis, Agrifirm-GMN, Agrodis, CNB, and Tulpenadvies.
Participating Growers in Pilot 5:
- Apeldoorn Bloembollen
- Boon & Breg
- Huiberts Biologische Bloembollen
- Schouten Tulips / Eko-Flora
- J & T Bloembollen BV
- W.W. van Haaster & Zn.
With the completion of Pilot 5, it is clear that practice-oriented research carried out in close cooperation with growers is a powerful way to accelerate and effectively implement innovation within the sector. In the accompanying film, several participants share their experiences with the pilot.
Also interesting:
The future of flower bulb cultivation
From biogas to superfood: Sustenso’s circular breakthrough
