Forever Bulbs – Gladioli in Every Colour of the Rainbow

Forever Bulbs – Gladioli in Every Colour of the Rainbow

Do you know what a gladiolus looks like and how it grows? At Forever Bulbs, they know everything there is to know! A gladiolus grows from a corm, producing a tall flower spike covered in colourful blooms—a real eye-catcher.

Everything revolves around developing new gladiolus varieties with even better colours, shapes and characteristics. From AI-powered sorting techniques to sustainable plant breeding, innovation is at the heart of everything they do.

We spoke with owner Frank Wagenaar about his passion for plant breeding, the opportunities within the sector and why Forever Bulbs is the perfect place to let your career bloom.

From family business to global player

What once started as a family business has grown into an international success story.

"I literally grew up surrounded by flowers and bulbs," Frank says. "At first, I thought I'd do something completely different. But after working in the business for a year, I discovered just how exciting and versatile this sector really is."

"I completed internships in Indonesia and Greece, which showed me just how international this industry is."

Today, Forever Bulbs develops gladioli in every colour of the rainbow, offering a portfolio of 120 to 150 different cultivars. But it's not just about creating beautiful flowers. Through plant breeding and research, the company develops gladioli that are more resistant to diseases and better prepared for a changing climate.

What makes a gladiolus unique?

"A gladiolus is not just a colourful flower; it's the result of years of plant breeding," says Frank Wagenaar.

New varieties are carefully selected for colour, shape, strength and vase life. This involves extensive crossing, testing under different growing conditions, and ensuring the flowers appeal to both growers and consumers.

At Forever Bulbs, it's not only about creating new colours but also about improving characteristics such as longer vase life and stronger stems that can withstand transport.

"A gladiolus shouldn't just be beautiful—it should also be practical and sustainably grown."

What qualities are you looking for in new talent?

The sector is constantly looking for young people with fresh ideas.

"You don't need to be an expert in flower bulbs to work here," Frank explains. "What really matters is curiosity and ambition. Whether you're interested in plant technology, logistics, sales or sustainability, there's always a place where you can apply your talents."

Innovation and collaboration are at the heart of Forever Bulbs. Everyone contributes to the breeding and sales process, with plenty of opportunities to learn, ask questions and test new ideas.

As the company continues to grow and expand internationally, there are many opportunities for personal and professional development.

"Attitude is everything," says Frank. "You don't necessarily need green fingers, but curiosity, ambition and a hands-on mentality are essential. We're looking for people who enjoy discovering, improving and trying new ideas."

Career opportunities and growth

The gladiolus sector may be specialised, but the career opportunities are endless.

Forever Bulbs offers internships, graduate projects and excellent career development opportunities. From working in the greenhouses to managing international business relationships, there are many different career paths.

Many employees start with an internship or graduation project before moving into permanent positions. Because the company operates internationally, there are also opportunities to gain experience abroad.

One recent intern even moved to Australia after graduating to experience the flower industry there.

"You don't have to know exactly what you want to do for the rest of your life," Frank explains. "By doing internships, exploring different roles and keeping an open mind, you'll naturally discover what suits you best. That only makes your career more interesting."

What advice would you give students interested in the sector?

"Do an internship and experience the sector from the inside!" Frank says enthusiastically.

"Plant breeding is much broader than most people think. By gaining experience at different companies, you'll discover what really suits you. The combination of innovation and natural processes makes this industry unique—and at Forever Bulbs you'll be right at the heart of it. Who knows? It might just be the start of an exciting international career!"

An exciting international career

Can you picture yourself working in this thriving sector?

At Forever Bulbs, you'll have the opportunity to grow, innovate and make a real impact in the world of flowers—not only in the Netherlands, but across the globe.

Whether you want to become a plant breeding pioneer, work with cutting-edge technologies or simply explore the possibilities, your adventure in Seed Valley starts here.