In Episode 75 of The Flower Files, we sit down with Tuan Overgaag, president of Westerlay Orchids, for an inspiring conversation about growing orchids under glass. From Dutch family roots to producing over 4 million orchids a year in Carpinteria, California, Tuan blends tradition, innovation, and sustainability to lead one of the largest orchid operations in the U.S.
Whether you’re a backyard grower with a single Phalaenopsis or dreaming of a commercial greenhouse, this episode is packed with insights on scaling a flower business without losing your values.
From Family Greenhouses to Millions of Orchids
Tuan’s story begins in the Netherlands, where his grandfather grew tomatoes under glass before switching to chrysanthemums. His father eventually emigrated to California and became the area’s only rose grower. When imported roses began dominating the U.S. market, the family pivoted to orchids — first potted Cymbidiums, then the now wildly popular Phalaenopsis orchids.
Their decision was strategic: orchids are harder to ship from abroad, and advances in greenhouse technology made growing orchids under glass more efficient and sustainable than ever.
Scaling with Purpose and Core Values
Managing 18 acres under glass requires more than just horticultural skill — it takes strong leadership and a clear mission. At Westerlay Orchids, that mission is built on four core values: pride, responsibility, support, and constant improvement.
Sustainability runs through it all. From testing domestically sourced substrates to installing advanced greenhouse dehumidifiers that can cut natural gas use by 10–20%, Tuan is committed to balancing profitability with environmental care.
“We’re not a small business anymore,” he says, “but there’s no conflict between being profitable and being responsible.”
Lessons in Leadership
As Westerlay grew, Tuan learned that success depends as much on people as on plants. Hiring with core values in mind became non-negotiable.
“Someone can be great at their job, but if they don’t believe in what the company is about, it can be destructive. You need the right people in the right seats.”
He credits his father as his greatest inspiration and a peer advisory group (Vistage) for providing honest feedback and fresh perspectives — especially when tackling those inevitable “people problems” that keep leaders up at night.
Advice for Aspiring Orchid and Flower Growers
Tuan’s advice for anyone dreaming of their own greenhouse or considering growing orchids:
- Love what you do — passion fuels resilience.
- Define your values early — so your whole team can move in the same direction.
He also stresses the importance of finding a community or peer group to share ideas, challenges, and honest feedback.
Staying Grounded While Growing Big
Even at the helm of a major orchid operation, Tuan finds balance through family life and surfing on the Southern California coast. “It’s my selfish thing,” he says with a smile. “I get in the water, and it just totally cleanses my brain.”
From the Netherlands to California, from roses to millions of orchids, this conversation is a reminder that growing orchids under glass is as much about vision and values as it is about blooms.
