For more than 27 years, Jason Sbiral has been part of Plantpeddler's growing operations, where he now serves as head grower and facility manager. Over time, his role has expanded from managing single crops and deliveries to overseeing a full-scale young plant production facility.
After graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Forest Resource Management and Horticulture, Jason joined Plantpeddler to work with crops such as Yoder Azaleas and assist with distribution. A key turning point came when the company established its young plant facility, where Sbiral transitioned into managing production on a larger scale. Since then, he has been directly involved in every upgrade and expansion. "My number one goal is basically to do whatever I can to make everybody else's job around me easier," he says. "If I have great-looking plants that are ready to ship, with no extra maintenance, that's a good day for me."
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Fast-paced cycles
Plantpeddler's young plant production requires short turnaround times. "Most of our crops are on either a 3-week or 4-week cycle," Jason explains. "That means every 3 or 4 weeks we start a new crop, and then the crop that's been in the ground for three or four weeks is out the door."
This fast pace demands precise timing, whether that involves holding plants back or accelerating their development to align with customer requirements. "The customers are different because they're not end users. It's a user that has to have exactly what they want," he adds.
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Efficiency through technology
To manage these demands, automation and digital tools play a central role. "We have automation and computerized tools that are definitely way above what it would take in a normal greenhouse," says he. From tray filling to climate management, technology supports efficiency and consistency across production. "The tech we use makes us more efficient, allowing us to grow plants better and faster."
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Substrate trials and performance
When it comes to rooting, Jason is very much aware of the importance of consistency in growing media. He relies on PRO-MIX® FPX AGTIV DEFEND® to provide the plants with the stability they need to thrive. With its balance of nutrients and water retention, it gives Jason the peace of mind that the plants are rooted well and ready to take on the next phase of their growth. "The plant has to root well in it. It has to fill well. The soil has to be uniform, the water holding capacity, and the settling of the soil after it's watered in," he says. For young plants, the right balance of stability and water retention ensures crops are ready to move into the next stage without delay.
© Plantpeddler
Knowledge sharing in horticulture
Jason credits both mentors and peers in the industry for shaping his approach, highlighting the role of collaboration and shared expertise. "There's a lot of talent that's been in the industry for a long time," he says. "If you ask someone a question that might make your life easier or produce a better crop, they're not afraid to share their trade secrets."
Looking back on nearly three decades in greenhouse production, Sbiral points to the combination of precision, adaptability, and knowledge exchange as central to keeping Plantpeddler's young plant facility on pace with market needs.
For more information:
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