Season 2 Episode 4: Conversation with Art and Abe Van Wingerden, co-CEOs of Metrolina Greenhouses

02/23/24 • 50 min

Join us as Art and Abe Van Wingerden delve into their upbringing within the greenhouse business their parents pioneered. What began as a modest venture has blossomed into a sprawling enterprise spanning 450 acres across two locations, complemented by over 50 grower partners. Their conversation ranges from labor dynamics, where they prioritize fostering a world-class employee experience, to their commitment to sustainability practices like water retention and innovative energy solutions (ever wondered how they heat the largest single-story building in the US?). They also discuss their decision-making process regarding crop selection, facilitated by public and private trial gardens, and a relationship with plant breeders and consumers. But it's not all business; basketball emerges as both a stress reliever and a way to strengthen family bonds.
Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)
Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (host)
Art Van Wingerden, owners of Metrolina Greenhouses
Abe Van Wingerden, owners of Metrolina Greenhouses
Image: Spring plants and hanging baskets are nearing readiness for shipment from Metrolina Greenhouses. The hanging baskets are currently undergoing automated watering on a conveyor system. Photo by Krystal Snyder

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Season 2 Episode 3: Conversation with Sam Hoadley, Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center

Join the Keeping It Green podcast team as we talk with Sam Hoadley, the Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center. Discover how a small organization makes a significant impact! During our conversation, we delve into their research trials, where the team assesses native plants and associated cultivars for their horticultural and ecological significance. And how many young children realize their passion for the plant world early on? Listen to Sam's unique journey and insights.
Episode Hosts/Speakers:
Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)
Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (host)
Sam Hoadley, Manager of Horticultural Research at Mt. Cuba Center
Image: The Mt. Cuba Center conducted a four-year trial assessing the horticultural characteristics, robustness, and suitability of 70 various species and cultivars of Carex plants. Carex muskingumensis ‘Oehme’ was rated among the top performers of this evaluation. Photo of Carex muskingumensis ‘Oehme’ by Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension

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Season 2 Episode 5: Michelle Catania, Morton Arboretum’s Green Industry Outreach Coordinator

The Green Industry podcast team jumps into mid-west horticulture with Michelle Catania, the Green Industry Outreach Coordinator at Morton Arboretum. This interview offers a journey through time, exploring the legacy of the Morton family, pivotal in the inception of Arbor Day and the establishment of the sprawling 1800-acre Morton Arboretum. The interview extends beyond the Morton family, exploring the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and its impact on urban soil. The discussion addresses challenges beyond Chicago's boundaries, focusing on the hurdles prairie soils pose in nurturing tree growth. And what does a boat anchor have to do with planting trees?
Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)
Tim Abbey, Penn State Extension (host)
Michelle Catania, Morton Arboretum’s Green Industry Outreach Coordinator
Image: Urban soils can be tough on trees in cities throughout the US. Vinnie Cotrone, Penn State Extension