In the U.S., 47 percent of the workforce is women, a number that has surged by 114% over the last two decades; however, within the green industry, this figure drops to just 9 percent.
While there has been notable progress, there is room for encouraging more women to enter the industry and supporting their advancement. Research shows that companies with gender-diverse executive teams are 25 percent more likely to achieve above-average profitability.
This underscores the importance of the Fifth Annual Women in Horticulture Week, which occurs from May 26 to June 1. The week is dedicated to commemorating the achievements of women in horticulture and creating a supportive environment for their professional growth.
"There are so many inspirational women who have been mentors, guides, and role models for me in this industry—including my mother," said Katie Dubow, president of the women-led Garden Media Group. Women in Horticulture Week is our opportunity to celebrate these women and their contributions and continually work towards a more inclusive future."
The week includes diverse activities, workshops, and events to acknowledge women's essential roles in horticulture. It is an inspirational platform for professionals, industry leaders, and enthusiasts to participate in meaningful conversations, share insights, and establish strong networks.
"And it's not just gender," said Maria Carrasquillo, VP of marketing and e-commerce at Costa Farms. "Your age, socioeconomic background, and ethnicity make you unique. And it's all about ideas. Diversity gives us the worldview—accessibility all the time to provide more forums and perspectives. Having many points of view builds a better company and a stronger team. Consumers are more diverse than ever, so we must be, too."
How to Participate in the Fifth Annual Women in Horticulture Week:
- Share your journey and inspiring facts about women in business to motivate others.
- Volunteer or mentor aspiring female entrepreneurs in horticulture.
- Learn the experiences, challenges, and triumphs of leaders during the Women in Horticulture series hosted by AmericanHort. The next event is a luncheon hosted at Cultivate '24, July 10.
- Find and join local peer groups such as the ones in Greater Philadelphia and Central Florida.
- Read Denise Schreiber's Women in Horticulture column in Nursery Management featuring women such as Dr. Bridget Behe, Stephanie Cohen, Carol Reese, Maria Zampini, and more!
- Embrace continuous learning through motivational resources and tools.
- Support the initiative by updating your social media profile picture and sharing stories with the hashtag #womeninhort.
"Women are instrumental at our company, nurturing a greener, more sustainable future," said Misti Mathis, co-owner of Harvest Gold Organics. "This focus helps ensure that women's efforts in horticulture—whether in research, community gardening, or sustainability—are acknowledged and supported, fostering an environment where their contributions can thrive and inspire."
For more information:
Garden Media
Tel.: 610-444-3040
Email: katie@gardenmediagroup.com
www.gardenmediagroup.com