The company was founded in 1999 after Diederik and Peggy purchased a farmhouse with 3.5 hectares of land. 'We actually made two purchases then. First this farm, and the next day our son Balder,' Peggy smiles. The decision for self-employment was driven by the desire for freedom to develop their own ideas and to continue their passion for plants.
Boomkwekerij Van Colen specializes in multi-stemmed trees, solitary trees, and hedge plants, primarily for the B2B market. In addition to the nursery itself, there is also Greenlovers at Nieuwenhovestraat 45, a 'show park' where garden contractors and their clients can view the offerings on-site.
Peggy, who also works part-time as a nurse, handles the administration, while Balder, along with a colleague, is responsible for the physical work such as digging, planting, and preparing orders. Diederik now focuses more on managing the business, sales, and production.
Since 2003, the nursery has phased out chemical use. Today, 75% of the products are grown sustainably without chemical fertilizers or pesticides, with the goal of achieving 100% in the future. This sustainable approach attracts garden contractors, even from further afield.
Future plans include robotization for weed control via electrocution and spraying stimulants via drones, which are intended to promote robust and resistant plant growth. The creation of a water buffer is also a priority given the current climate.
They find satisfaction in good sales, correct deliveries, and positive customer feedback. 'And perhaps also the fact that we achieve this together as a family,' adds Peggy. Their golden tip for other entrepreneurs: 'Find out what you love and do it. As entrepreneurs, we work for our customers, but also listen to yourself. If you enjoy something, you can do it even better for your customers.'
