US (AZ): Mesquite Valley Growers Nursery

Growing plants under extreme conditions in the Sonoran Desert can be a challenge, but Thomas Birt decided to take the risk and started his nursery in the early 90’s with a revolutionary concept. As a clever entrepreneur, he learned and understood the art of growing plants while he was working at another nursery and also by experimenting with growing techniques in his backyard.

Mesquite Valley Growers Nursery started with one acre in the middle of a residential area in Tucson, AZ. It consisted of a small office and a production area for native trees, shrubs and plants. At that time, Thomas managed the crop production area, sales and made deliveries. The hard work paid off and after a couple of years he expanded his production area by purchasing residential properties next to the nursery and constructed new greenhouses.

With the expansion, it was necessary for Thomas to hire a grower to split the work load, then came Guadalupe Velarde. He would be responsible for growing bedding plants, herbs, vegetable transplants, tropical foliage, citrus, roses and orchids. Thomas would still be responsible in the production of shrubs, native trees and plants, succulents and cactus.

Currently, Mesquite Valley Growers Nursery has grown to a 22-acre farm divided into three production areas:

3 acres of high tech greenhouses for bedding plants;
2 acres of retractable roof greenhouses for trees;
2 acres of shade houses for citrus, roses, tropical foliage and vegetable production.

In addition, there is another greenhouse designated to grow plants that require high humidity and low light. Thomas calls it his “Orchid Greenhouse”.

Click here to read the complete article at pthorticulture.com