Grower – Greenhouse Propagation at Bailey Nurseries Growers, Inc – Newport, Minnesota

Position Title: Grower – Greenhouse Propagation

Department: Plant Health – Nord Farm, MN

Reports To: Lead Grower

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Full-Time

Position Summary:

The Grower – Greenhouse Propagation is responsible for the successful propagation, rooting, and early-stage production of woody and perennial ornamental crops within an assigned greenhouse section, including hoop houses, gutter-connected ranges, and outdoor beds. This role manages environmental conditions, irrigation, fertility programs, and plant health to produce high-quality liners for finishing production. The Grower is accountable for achieving strong rooting success, consistent liner quality, and efficient labor utilization.

This position operates in a technology-driven greenhouse environment using systems such as Argus Titan, Qcom, GTI, Cherry Creek Systems booms, and other irrigation equipment. This is a production-critical role that directly impacts crop timing, shrink, and downstream finishing performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Monitor and adjust misting and irrigation cycles based on weather, light levels, crop stage, and season.
• Promote uniform rooting, callus formation, and liner quality.
• Maintain accurate crop records, including rooting percentages, crop timing, crop stage, and performance.
• Use Argus Titan and Qcom systems to manage temperature, humidity, venting, and irrigation scheduling.
• Implement liquid fertilizer programs during propagation and early liner production stages.
• Apply and manage controlled-release fertilizer (CRF), when applicable.
• Monitor and adjust substrate EC and pH to maintain optimal rooting and growing conditions.
• Partner with management to refine fertility strategies based on crop response and seasonal needs.
• Scout crops regularly for insects, disease, weeds, nutrient deficiencies, and abiotic stress.
• Collaborate with the Plant Health team on preventive and corrective crop health strategies.
• Coordinate with production crews on crop placement, cutting harvest, and cutback schedules.
• Maintain sanitation standards within assigned propagation areas.
• Ensure liner quality meets company standards for uniformity and readiness for finishing production.
• Communicate proactively with the Lead Grower and Department Head regarding crop progress, concerns, and production challenges.
• Participate in crop planning and production discussions.

Required Qualifications:

• Degree in horticulture or equivalent horticultural experience.
• Knowledge of plant care, germination, vegetative propagation, and container production.
• Knowledge of Microsoft 365 applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and Monday.com.
• Knowledge of or ability to learn greenhouse environmental control systems such as Argus Titan or Qcom.
• Strong understanding of mist propagation and environmental control practices.
• Working knowledge of irrigation systems and water quality management.
• Experience managing EC, pH, and fertility in soilless substrates.
• Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets company insurability standards.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends during peak propagation seasons.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Argus Titan, Qcom, or similar greenhouse climate control systems.
• Experience operating boom irrigation systems.
• Basic mechanical aptitude.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong observational and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to use data to support production decisions.
• Ability to adapt quickly to seasonal and environmental changes.
• Strong organizational skills and process orientation.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching. The employee must regularly lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds with assistance. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to weather conditions such as humidity, heat, cold, rain, and wind. PPE may be required, and the role may involve exposure to dust, fertilizers, pesticides, and noise.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check

Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law. If you need assistance or reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact our HR team.