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The
Greenhouse Effect |
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The
Greenhouse Effect |
Background. More than a decade ago, Earl Huebner wanted to expand his
grain farm operation, yet he wasn’t able to secure additional cropland to farm
full-time. So he took a job at a
local factory, which only cemented his decision to remain self-employed in
agriculture. Earl discussed
entrepreneurial ideas with a family member, and soon founded “The Greenhouse
Effect”, a wholesale and retail nursery.
Today, Earl has achieved his goal. He
and his wife, Tina, operate their family-owned nursery in the rural community of
Paulding County, Ohio. In
addition, Earl continues to farm 160 acres, growing wheat and soybeans.
Current
Markets.
The Greenhouse Effect sells directly to consumers and credit
“word-of-mouth” from satisfied customers as their best source of
advertising. They attract repeat customers from miles away. It’s not unusual
for the Huebners to also sell wholesale to other businesses.
Their stock includes annuals and perennials; mums and asters; garden
vegetable plants, and poinsettias. In addition, they have a complete line of
garden accessories.
Year-round
Job.
The Huebner’s grow nearly all of their plants in the controlled
environment of their soon-to-be 12 greenhouses.
In January, they plant plug seedlings for hanging baskets. February is
the start of potted and bedding plants, and March brings the start of vegetable
seed planting. The work
continues all the way through the Christmas sales of poinsettias.
Earl and Tina, along with a few seasonal employees, devote a lot of time
to planting, watering, feeding, cleaning, and trimming the plants. The Huebners
attribute their success to care of their plants prior to the sale.
Quote/Unquote. “You’ve got to be willing to work; and you’ve got to
enjoy people.” - Earl Huebner,
The Greenhouse Effect, on owning and operating a nursery.
Special thanks to Maria Miller Gordon, Ohio Farmers Union, for submitting this Ag Advancements profile.