Best Greenhouse Grower Podcasts (2024)

1
The Greenhouse Grower Team Looks Back at 2023 and Ahead to 2024 35:31

1h ago35:31

35:31

As we wind down 2023 and plan for the coming year, Greenhouse Grower editors Brian Sparks and Julie Hullett reflect on their favorite moments from floriculture in 2023, and why they’re excited about the coming year.By Greenhouse Grower

1
Marcus Janzen comments on climate policy risk 17:15

8h ago17:15

17:15

Cumulative catastrophic weather events over the last four years have left many Okanagan fruit growers with little to no fruit to sell in the summer of 2024. Government response, at the British Columbia and federal levels, has been tepid at best. The Fruit and Vegetable Growers of Canada continue to advocate for more rapid monetary support but presi…

1
Ep. 24 - The Bright Future of Horticulture Education (Part One) 32:37

6d ago32:37

32:37

Greenhouse Grower’s July cover story will feature a closer look at how university horticulture departments from across the country are attracting new blood to the industry while fostering career development. I had the chance to talk to six department heads about a wide range of topics, and over the next few weeks this podcast will include extended …

1
Ep. 23 - Insights on IPM and Biocontrols With Michelle Opela at Costa Farms 37:56

13d ago37:56

37:56

Michelle Opela, Senior IPM Manager at Costa Farms, will be giving two talks at Cultivate on the topic of IPM and biocontrols in the greenhouse. Michelle’s career path started with studying biology at Cornell University. After a brief stint in marine biology, she joined Costa’s R&D team eight years ago, eventually finding her way into managing the c…

1
Ep. 22 - Costa Farms’ Mari Carrasquillo on the Emerging Role of E-Commerce in Floriculture 33:44

1M ago33:44

33:44

Mari Carrasquillo, Vice President of Marketing and E-Commerce at Costa Farms, has more than 25 years of experience in creating brand strategies for companies such as Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Food Saver. She joined the Costa Farms team in 2021 and currently focuses on developing and managing digital and e-commerce programs. Mari will be joining a …

1
The Buyer's Perspective: Hanover Co-Op 41:41

29d ago41:41

41:41

Dr. Peter Konjoian and Michelle Klieger are joined by Rebecca White, Public & Government Affairs Associate at the Hanover Co-op Food Stores & Auto Service Centers of NH & VT. Hanover Co-Op has a local purchasing goal, and they purchase from small and large farms, alike. Learn how they make decisions and how they work with farmers to get their produ…

1
Amanda Doughty builds relationships with TFW workers 15:57

2M ago15:57

15:57

Responsible for human resources at Sandy Shore Farms, Amanda Doughty has embraced not only the work ethic but the community ethic at this asparagus, bell pepper and onion operation near Port Burwell, Ontario. She is focused on the physical and mental welfare of the 200-plus temporary foreign workers from Mexico and the Caribbean. The Grower is Digg…

1
U.S. Vegetable Sales Jump 82 Percent?! 34:35

2M ago34:35

34:35

Michelle Klieger and Dr. Peter Konjoian dive into the newly released USDA ERS Vegetable and Pulse Outlook report and examine trends. These trends are something small growers should consider when investigating new and upcoming and coming crops to grow. How can they do that? Learn during this podcast!

1
Ep. 21 - How Cheryl Wagner Greenhouse in Michigan Stays Connected to Plant Lovers 36:16

2M ago36:16

36:16

Greenhouse Grower Senior Editor Julie Hullett recently caught up with Cheryl Wagner, who runs a small greenhouse business near Ann Arbor, Michigan. In addition to being a staple at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Cheryl also hosts an annual Art and Garden Show at her greenhouse, the most recent one taking place on May 5. The event allows local artisa…

1
In the Year 2525... 33:50

2M ago33:50

33:50

Is it possible to change the nutrient profile of our vegetables to make them more nutrient dense? Michelle Klieger and Dr. Peter Konjoian delve into Peter's research this week and how children are the driver of parent's consumer decisions. Will kids eat more carrots in 2525? Tune in to find out!

1
John Cline explains thinning technology for tender fruit 12:37

2M ago12:37

12:37

University of Guelph pomology professor Dr. John Cline has spent his research career in not only apples, but tree fruit. The Grower is Digging Deeper behind the May 2024 cover story and speaking with Dr. Cline. He shares information on his most recent trials with a plant growth regulator for peaches and nectarines, that could shave 40 to 50 per cen…

1
Ep. 20 - The Latest Updates on the Future of Skagit Horticulture 44:43

2M ago44:43

44:43

In early February, Skagit Horticulture in Washington announced it would be shutting down within a couple of months. Then in early April, the news broke that Smith Gardens had stepped in to acquire a portion of Skagit’s operations. In this episode, we talk to Scott Crownover at Skagit and Eric Smith at Smith Gardens to learn more. https://www.greenh…

1
More Greenhouse Grower Podcasts! 37:36

3M ago37:36

37:36

Brian D. Sparks, Editor of Greenhouse Grower, a part of Meister Media Worldwide, discusses starting a podcast with Peter and Michelle, as his organization recently launched and how it offers growers another tool in their toolbox. But don't worry - this podcast wouldn't replace the print magazine. This is just another tool for growers to access info…

1
Ep. 19 - Why Having a Succession or Exit Plan for Your Business Is More Critical Than Ever 34:56

3M ago34:56

34:56

So far in 2024, we’ve seen too many large greenhouse operations shutting down, and while there are many reasons for this, one of the biggest is the lack of a succession plan or an exit strategy. In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Cimaglio, Managing Director of PivotPoint Business Solutions. Chris and his team specialize in helping growers build v…

1
Join Us at Farm Resort: 2 Days of Game-Changing Farming Secrets with JM Fortier 26:21

3M ago26:21

26:21

Join us at the Farm Resort in White Wright, Texas on April 27th and 28th for an event that will transform your farming skills. Learn from JM Fortier, an experienced market farmer and speaker. Get ready for workshops on boosting farm productivity, soil management, and innovative growing techniques. You'll also have the opportunity to see hands-on de…

1
Spring Has Sprung - Have You Started Your Plants? 45:26

3M ago45:26

45:26

Rene is back by popular demand, for his fourth episodes of The Grower & The Economist. We are reminded that growers range from hobby gardeners, homesteaders, small businesses, and commercial operations. This week we discuss starting spring plants. Our discussion applies to all growers looking to maximize their growing season. How do you tackle crop…

1
Richard Lee takes stock of greenhouse vegetable sector growth 24:57

3M ago24:57

24:57

The Ontario greenhouse vegetable sector, now valued at close to $2 billion in farmgate value, is facing regulatory burdens on several fronts. The federal carbon tax is one, but Chatham-Kent’s municipal development charges for water and wastewater will escalate from $179,000 per acre in 2024 to $366,000 per acre by 2029. The Grower is Digging Deeper…

1
Ep. 18 - New Varieties, Consumer Trends, and More With Must Have Perennials 31:34

3M ago31:34

31:34

Greenhouse Grower’s April issue features a heavy focus on perennials, from new varieties to production tips. We also addressed marketing trends, what consumers are looking for in new plants, and how growers and breeders are responding. In this episode, I sat down with Justin Wisniewski and Kris Smith at Aris Horticulture and Must Have Perennials to…

1
Is $6,000 for Data a Good Price? 36:12

3M ago36:12

36:12

Since last summer, Dr. Peter Konjoian and Michelle Klieger have been talking about metrics to evaluate business decisions. Peter likes ROI. Today, they work through a real-life ROI case study with a subscription tool that Michelle is considering for her research project. This situation can be applied on small and medium sized operations as well. Ha…

1
Farming After 50: Adapting for Mobility 31:48

4M ago31:48

31:48

This talk with returning guests from Bouldin Food Forest. Vanessa Bates and Ben McConnell are for individuals interested in or currently engaged in market farming and navigating the new challenges and opportunities that come with being over 50. As we age, our physical capabilities can change, and once straightforward tasks may become more demanding…

1
Ep. 17 - Doug Cole of D.S. Cole Growers on Varieties, H-2A, Certification, and More 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

Doug Cole is the owner of D.S. Cole Growers, a young plant and finished plant grower based in Loudon, NH. The team at D.S. Cole is constantly on the hunt for what’s new, and the company also places a huge emphasis on certification for clean production, sustainability, and more. I caught up with Doug in the middle of a busy spring season, right befo…

1
What's The Deal with Peat? 43:59

4M ago43:59

43:59

There's been a lot of talk about peat as regulations in Europe impacts its availability and the definition of sustainability. Peat grows, very slowly, in bogs in Canada, the United States, and Europe. Raising some questions about using this renewable resource and how to maintain healthy bogs. Peat is an important growth medium in greenhouses throug…

1
When Disaster Strikes: Real Stories of Farm Resilience & Recovery 44:04

4M ago44:04

44:04

In September 2023, Bouldin Food Forest faced a test of strength and spirit when ferocious winds tore through their farm, ravaging structures and leaving chaos in their wake. In this heartfelt video, Vanessa and Ben unveil the reality of severe weather impacts on agriculture and share a powerful testament to resilience and recovery. Watch as they re…

1
A Bigger in Texas Market Farm | Bouldin Food Forest 1:33:25

4M ago1:33:25

1:33:25

Meet Ben and Vanessa of Bouldin Food Forest serving the Austin, Texas market. Bouldin Food Forest grows rich, nutrient-dense food using regenerative agriculture methods. It’s a throwback to when agriculture was about craftsmanship, not industrial mechanization and chemicals favored by today’s large factory farms. The result: beautiful vegetables an…

1
8 Profit Crops for Greenhouse Growing 1:49:43

4M ago1:49:43

1:49:43

The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook What crops make the most money in a Hoop House? What options do farmers need when growing year-round? What are ways big growers leverage every square inch of protected culture? Andrew Mefferd, the author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Growers Handbook, discussed his motivation and observations in wr…

1
Ep. 16 - How Urban Buds Turned an Abandoned Greenhouse Into a Local Favorite 37:06

4M ago37:06

37:06

Urban Buds City Grown Flowers is a St. Louis-based company that emerged from the shell of an abandoned greenhouse to become a favorite supplier of cut flowers in their community. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, I spoke with Mimo Davis, co-founder of Urban Buds, about her path from social work to floriculture, how the company emerged…

1
Technology and AI: For the Small, Medium Sized Growers 17:58

4M ago17:58

17:58

Michelle and Peter sit down with Andrew Brooks from Priva to discuss global trends that are impacting the small and medium sized grower. Larger growers can manage temperatures to the 1/10 degree but you can only get to 1 degree. What does that mean as you compete in the global market space?

1
Brian Rideout takes big strides to adopting biologicals 21:07

4M ago21:07

21:07

The Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) is registering dozens of biopesticides but the uptake by growers hasn’t been as robust. These new products offer suppression, not total control of insects and disease. That means a management shift in how to integrate them with conventional chemistry. There’s also a mind shift – how much faith do growers…

1
It's Global 7:59

5M ago7:59

7:59

Food systems are complicated. On The Grower & The Economist, we talk to and about small producers and local food systems. However, as many of you know, Michelle has a background in international trade. Today, Michelle and Peter discuss Michelle's research and how global trade allows for cheap food, year-round. Learn how trade keeps people fed while…

1
Ep. 15 - The Plantpeddler Team on Variety Trials, Advocacy, Innovation, and More 54:53

5M ago54:53

54:53

Plantpeddler in Cresco, IA, is one of the floriculture industry’s most innovative growing operations. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we catch up with the Plantpeddler team to learn more about their variety trials, the importance of industry advocacy, and much more. Here’s our conversation.…

1
Seed Catalogs Are Presents in January 46:10

5M ago46:10

46:10

Have you started planning your seed order for the spring? Peter and Michelle are too! We love talking about crop scheduling. This episode starts with some new thoughts about ordering seeds and planning your crop schedule 2024 and also goes back to one of our first episodes on crop scheduling back in 2020.…

1
GMO Vs. Hybrid Seeds- A Very Deep Dive with Andrew Mefferd 1:44:04

5M ago1:44:04

1:44:04

We dive deep. And we mean deep into how hybrid seeds are developed and brought to market with Andrew Mefferd. Andrew is the owner/editor of Growing For Market Magazine, author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook, and served many years at the trial farm at Johnny's Selected Seeds. His intense knowledge of seeds and the seed industry m…

1
What Do Farm Nerds Talk About After Hours? 1:50:34

5M ago1:50:34

1:50:34

A family reunion of sorts, Bootstrap Farmer welcomes Andrew Mefferd, publisher of Growing for Market Magazine and author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook, to the studio, along with Bootstrap Farmers Director of Sales Randy Cummings & Customer Service Specialist Kari Danial. Host Nick, Randy, and Andrew have known each other for cl…

1
Ep. 14 - How Metrolina Greenhouses Takes a Smart Approach to Technology 23:00

5M ago23:00

23:00

Metrolina Greenhouses is widely considered to be an industry leader not just in adopting new greenhouse technology, but in doing so for the right reasons. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we catch up with Abe and Art Van Wingerden of Metrolina to learn why and how they take this approach, and much more. Here’s our conversation.…

1
SNOW DAY! 27:06

5M ago27:06

27:06

Here at The Grower & The Economist we are experiencing our first snowstorm in two years. Winter is usually considered the slow season for small to medium vegetable growers but there is still work to be done. Greenhouses allow us to extend our season but they require maintance and planning. Listen to Michelle and Peter discuss the "off season."…

1
Tyler McCann argues for more agriculture investment 14:28

5M ago14:28

14:28

As managing director of the Canadian Agrifood Policy Institute, Tyler McCann sees a need for more investment if agriculture is to meet its superpower goals in food production. That means more foresight amongst both public and private institutions and ambition to build the infrastructure that’s needed for a climate-resilient sector. In this Digging …

1
Reaction to JM Fortier Interview by Bootstrap Farmer Podcast Crew 48:20

5M ago48:20

48:20

In this reaction video, the Bootstrap Farmer Podcast crew dives deeper into the JM Fortier interview with Bootstrap Farmer ( https://youtu.be/Kd_jZnRaQbk ) and discus individual takeaways from @TheMarketGardeners TIMESTAMPS: 00:17 Intro 00:45 Farm Sustainability 09:59 School and Healthy Living 19:45 Increasing Greenhouse Production 27:38 Keeping Yo…

1
Ep. 13 - Joche Smith on Costa Farms’ Purchase of Battlefield Farms and More 23:51

6M ago23:51

23:51

Florida-based Costa Farms, the top grower on Greenhouse Grower’s Top 100 Growers list, kicked off the year in a big way with the acquisition of Battlefield Farms. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we caught up with Joche Smith, CEO of Costa Farms, to learn why now was the best time to make a move like this, what else Costa Farms has p…

1
Software, Date & Analytics 43:48

6M ago43:48

43:48

We all know there are so many apps and software out there that could help grow our business but are they right for the small and medium size grower? This week's episode interviews Aaron Allison, co-founder of SBI software, to see what his company's software can tell our growers and how they can incorporate into their business. Will you make the tra…

1
Market Gardener Sales Channels 1:14:49

6M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

Being a Market Gardener means serving our buyers where they are most likely to convert into repeatable sales at prices to keep you thriving in your agricultural business. In this episode, we look at many sales opportunities small farms have to serve their markets through traditional farmers markets, direct-to-consumer delivery, partnerships, and ad…

1
FARM AMBASSADOR, MICHAEL BELL, DALLAS 1/2 ACRE FARM 1:28:34

6M ago1:28:34

1:28:34

No stranger to the DFW growing community, Michael Bell runs a small farm just outside Dallas, TX. He sells direct to consumer seasonal salad veggies directly to his clients on his low-stress terms. If you think you need a lot of acreage or even a water supply, check out what Michael has accomplished, truly keeping a manageable scale as he bootstrap…

1
Who Can Be a Market Gardener| Market Gardener Podcast by Bootstrap Farmer, Ep2 36:27

6M ago36:27

36:27

Nick & Karl Binger of Market Garden Paris Natural Farms discuss the qualities of a great market gardener. Patience, planning, and hard work will go a long way as new farmers leave corporate jobs, start second incomes & plan retirement income goals. ************************************ Thanks for listening. Bootstrap Farmer! ► Subscribe and hit the …

1
Ep. 12 - Hoffman Nursery Looks Back at 2023 and Ahead to 2024 32:40

6M ago32:40

32:40

Hoffman Nursery in Rougemont, NC, has been growing ornamental and native grasses for more than 35 years. This week we had the chance to catch up with David Hoffman and Alex Stanley at Hoffman Nursery, right before the winter trade show season kicks off. We talked about what they’re most excited about for the coming year, and a lot more.…

1
Marketing Bonus! 1:16

6M ago1:16

1:16

Happy New Year! We think marketing your business is a really important topic for small growers. Last week we aired an episode with Myrna Greenfield of Good Egg Marketing. We think it was a great episode. Here's a clip. If you missed it, go back to last week and catch the whole episode. Here's the link to Myrna's book.…

1
What is a Market Gardener? | Market Gardener by Bootstrap Farmer, Ep 1 1:04:11

6M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

Are you a Gardener, Hobby Farm, Farmer, or Market Gardner? Bootstrap Farmer supports all growers no matter where they are scaled. But in this new Market Gardener series, we are diving deep into what drives local food and food economics through the lens of farmers working their land year-round. In this first episode, Nick & Karl Binger of Paris Natu…

1
Jean-Martin Fortier A Celebration of Small Farming 1:05:44

6M ago1:05:44

1:05:44

Bootstrap Farmer engages in an enlightening conversation with legendary Jean-Martin Fortier @TheMarketGardeners on various subjects concerning the state of small-scale farming as a profession. We share the belief that there's a vast potential to cater to all market sizes, and it's crucial now more than ever for those at the forefront of this sector…

1
Jessica Solanki looks to next-generation challenges 13:40

6M ago13:40

13:40

Many farmers -- and farm leaders -- are on the cusp of retirement. The Grape Growers of Ontario is planning for the future by sponsoring a Next-Generation Committee. About 15 to 30 growers, chaired by Jessica Solanki, is much more than a social group. The Grower is Digging Deeper behind the January 2024 cover story and speaking with Jessica. She sh…

1
Growing Trust: Strategies for Farm Marketing and Customer Loyalty 46:29

6M ago46:29

46:29

Are you struggling with your marketing? Are you focusing on tactics but don't have a strategy? Hear from Good Egg Marketing's Myrna Greenfield about ways to focus your marketing efforts and grow your business. Peter and Michelle delve into why this area is a challenge and how farmers can work with consultants to break down the roadblocks! Get your …

1
Ep. 11 - The Greenhouse Grower Team Looks Back at 2023 and Ahead to 2024 28:14

7M ago28:14

28:14

As we wind down 2023 and plan for the coming year, Greenhouse Grower editors Brian Sparks and Julie Hullett reflect on their favorite moments from floriculture in 2023, and why they’re excited about the coming year.By Greenhouse Grower

1
Three Major Horticulture Trends & A Call for Education Programs 51:09

7M ago51:09

51:09

As land grant extension agents have become further and further stretched, private consultants with company affiliations have been on the rise. Andy Peterson was recently interviewed to discuss his role as a consultant that also educates farmers. His career path has put him in contact with many small and medium sized growers that had questions that …

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