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

04/08/24 • 46 min

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

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Previous Episode

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

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

Next Episode

Season 2 Episode 6: Christine Williams, Owner of Little Swatara Creek Flowers

Little Swatara Creek Flowers was born when Christine Williams decided to grow the flowers for her daughter's wedding on their family farm. This choice led to a shift, with cut flowers gradually taking over parts of the land traditionally dedicated to livestock and crops. Join us as we dive into how this business came to life, highlighting the importance of soil health and the knowledge Christine acquired to kickstart her journey into cut flower farming.
Margaret Pickoff, Penn State Extension (host)
Tom Butzler, Penn State Extension (host)
Christine Williams, owner of Little Swatara Creek Flowers
Image: Sunflowers are just one of the crops grown by Little Swatara Creek Flowers. Photo courtesy of Tom Butzler