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
Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu
Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you!
Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!
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
Keeping It Green has an email: keepingitgreen@psu.edu
Do you have a suggestion for a future episode? Want more information on something we talked about? Send us your questions and comments, or just say hello! We would love to hear from you!
Check out Penn State Extension's Green Industry Team website!