Labor and staff shortages in horticulture are not a new problem; the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council (CAHRC) found that labor shortages cost the greenhouse industry more than $100 million. Yet, we are seeing a growing interest in sustainability, food security, and, especially in the wake of the pandemic, plants and gardening. In fact, the Canadian Garden Council has declared 2022 to be the Year of the Garden.
Horticulture seems to be having a moment. So, what can we do as a sector to attract and retain the next generation of talent and generate interest in careers in horticulture?
The new Growing Horticulture roundtable series hears from growers, educators, and sector partners about the challenges and opportunities faced by Canadian horticulture when it comes to hiring and retaining new employees.
“One spur of Covid has been an insurgence of people to these small towns,” said Dusty Zamecnik of EZ Grow Farms. “Tillsonburg is getting a Starbucks now. I think that just helped my hiring by 25%! That small towns are getting this boost of energy as of late creates a lot of opportunities.”
"A.M.A. was proud to sponsor this series as part of our commitment to the next generation of growers and our vision to cultivate the future of horticulture. Connie Bradt and Elise Johnson had the chance to sit down (virtually) with Greenhouse Canada editor, Greta Chiu, and share some of our thoughts on engaging the next generation, the kinds of skills and talent we look for, and ways to generate interest in horticulture careers," the A.M.A. team stated.
“Agriculture is an incredibly exciting sector with so much change happening,” said Stephanie Slaman of John Slaman Greenhouses.
For more information:
A.M.A. Horticulture
2011 Spinks Drive
Kingsville, ON N9Y 2E5
Canada
T: 519-322-1397 or 800-338-1136
F: 519-322-1358
ama@amahort.com
www.amahort.com