In the middle of the vast bulb fields of Hillegom, I spoke with Tineke van Berkel from the family business named J.M. van Berkel and Flores Andalucia. They operate as a nursery and trader in flowers and flower bulbs, with their flowers grown and produced in the Netherlands being marketed under the name J.M. van Berkel BV, while those produced in Spain are marketed under the brand name Flores Andalucia — both available via the All I Am label.
The family flower business specializes in delivering customized and just-in-time flowers to exporters and supermarket chains, with their varieties including Allium, Camassia, Eremurus, Ranunculus, Tulipa, Gladiolus, Ornithogalum, and Chasmanthe. They grow these fantastic flowers, partly in the Netherlands and partly in collaboration with a cooperative in Spain.
A Smart Collaboration Between the Netherlands and Spain
During the field visit, their Allium Statos had just been harvested, and what these flowers presented then was a colorful scene that put into focus and symbolized the strength of this internationally operating company.
According to Van Berkel, the company currently harvests five Allium varieties in the Netherlands, with a clear increase as the season progresses. However, its strength lies in its distribution: the company also produces a growing range in Spain, where the cultivation starts in December. This creates an almost year-round supply of Alliums, with only a short interruption in the autumn.
Tineke van Berkel:
“We make sure that the Spanish season ends when the Dutch season starts, and vice versa. Some varieties, such as the well-known Allium Gladiator, are grown at both locations, but quality is deliberately focused on to make a distinction. We want to know exactly which variety is the best, and in which location—that is, in terms of color, shape, and shelf life.”
Coordination and Precision Work in Two Climate Zones
The coordination between the two countries is in the hands of Sjon van Berkel, one of the directors. He alternates his presence between the Netherlands and Spain, where he follows the progress on the plots and also carefully checks and controls the growth and development of the bulbs.
Tineke van Berkel:
"Sjon knows exactly what a bulb needs, and when. Yet, this knowledge, obviously, requires years of experience and a feeling—and idea—for the right timing, ideal soil, and the perfect temperature, alongside other conditions."
It Is All About Craftsmanship, Vision, and Family Tradition
The conversation with Tineke van Berkel makes clear how J.M. van Berkel and Flores Andalucia give innovative meaning to their profession. Working within two climatic zones, extending the seasons, and offering diversity in varieties means that they know how to distinguish themselves in the international flower market. Craftsmanship, family tradition, and vision are the common thread.
J.M. van Berkel and Floris de Andalucia have a close working cooperation with All I Am by Coloríginz—the renowned importer of varieties of special flowers, beautiful roses, and fresh foliage from all over the world—for daily sales and term agreements. All their thirty varieties of Allium are available at All I Am!
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