US (NC): Hoffman Nursery hires R&D horticulturist

Hoffman Nursery has advanced their growing and trial programs with the addition of Leanne Kenealy as Research and Development Horticulturist. Kenealy will concentrate on establishing optimal growing methods and new product lines. Her research will address a wide range of options for best practices, plant health, and efficient growing systems.

Kenealy has a Masters in Horticulture from Clemson University in South Carolina. While there, she worked with Dr. Gregory Reighard on peach tree breeding and conducted annuals trials. Her most recent position was with Moore Farms Botanical Garden in Lake City, South Carolina, where she advanced from grower to production coordinator. She scheduled, produced, and maintained all nursery and greenhouse crops for the garden.

At Hoffman Nursery, Kenealy will initially concentrate on optimizing the new greenhouse facility to grow high quality liners more quickly and efficiently. In early 2016, the nursery added 17,000 sq. feet of greenhouse space, and another 17,000 sq. ft. will come online March 2017. “I am thrilled to work with the new technology in the greenhouse and to be in an environment with the best tools at hand,” says Kenealy. “I enjoy the research process and believe it can help us streamline our methods and better understand our plants. The new facility and research program show Hoffman Nursery’s dedication to innovation and efficiency.”

Kenealy’s research efforts should reap benefits for Hoffman Nursery’s customers. The goal is to produce ideal trays that ship well, pot up easily, and finish quickly. Customers will also get a boost from Kenealy’s expertise in plant trials. She will standardize and expand the existing trial program. New plants will move through the pipeline more quickly and get comprehensive assessments, resulting in sound selections for customers.

“With her experience in research and propagation, Leanne is a fantastic addition,” says Nursery Manager, Scott Epps. “Having someone who can focus on techniques will elevate our growing program.” Nursery owners Jill and John Hoffman are also excited about bringing Kenealy to the nursery. John Hoffman noted, “Leanne’s enthusiasm and dedication to the field inspired us. It’s great to see her diving into the work and starting new projects.”

Kenealy joined Hoffman Nursery in February of 2017.

For more information:
Hoffman Nursery
5520 Bahama Road
Rougemont, NC 27572
Phone (919) 479-6620
Toll-Free 1 (800) 203-8590
Fax (919) 471–3100
sales@hoffmannnursery.com
hoffmannursery.com