Propagator Grower in Newport, Minnesota at Bailey Nurseries

Position: Plant Health Grower/Propagator

Department: Plant Health – Nord Farm, Minnesota

Reports To: Lead Grower

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Full Time Grower/Propagator

Salary Range: $22.00 to $24.00 an hour

Position Summary:

The Grower/Propagator is responsible for the successful propagation, rooting, and early-stage production of woody and perennial ornamental crops across his/her greenhouse section consisting of hoop houses, gutter-connected ranges, and outdoor beds. This role oversees environmental control, irrigation management, fertility programs, and plant health, while ensuring high-quality liners for finishing production for his/her greenhouse section. The Grower/Propagator is accountable for achieving high rooting success, uniform liner quality, and efficient labor utilization.

The Grower/Propagator works within a technology-driven environment utilizing Argus Titan and Qcom environmental control systems, GTI and Cherry Creek Systems booms, as well as other irrigation systems. This role is production-critical and directly impacts crop timing, shrink, and downstream finishing performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Follow instructions from Lead Grower.

Monitor, adjust misting and irrigation cycles based on weather, light, crop stage, and season.

Ensure uniform rooting, callus formation, and liner quality.

Maintain detailed crop records including rooting percentages, timing, crop stage, and performance.

Utilize Argus and Qcom to manage temperature, humidity, venting, and irrigation scheduling.

Implement liquid fertilizer programs during propagation and early liner stages.

Manage controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) where applicable.

Monitor and correct substrate EC and pH to maintain optimal rooting conditions.

Work with management to refine fertility strategies based on crop response and season.

Scout crops regularly for disease, insect pressure, weeds, nutrient deficiencies, and Abiotic stress.

Collaborate with Plant Health team on preventative and corrective strategies.

Work with production crews on crop placement, cutting harvest, cutback schedule

Maintain sanitation standards in his/her propagation zones.

Ensure uniform, retail-ready liner quality standards.

Communicate proactively with Lead Grower and Department Head regarding crop progress and challenges.

Participate in crop planning.

Qualifications Required:

Horticulture degree or experience in horticulture.

Understanding of plant care, germination, vegetative and container production.

Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Monday.com) and greenhouse environmental control systems like Argus or Qcom.

Strong understanding of mist propagation and environmental control strategies.

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.

Evening and weekend work required during peak propagation season.

Qualifications Preferred:

Experience with Argus Titan or Qcom or similar greenhouse climate systems.

Experience operating boom irrigation systems.

Some mechanical aptitude

High attention to detail.

Strong observational and diagnostic ability.

Data-driven decision making.

Ability to adapt quickly to seasonal changes.

Organized and process oriented.

Bilingual in Spanish/English is a plus.

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. Other duties may include participating in planting, grading, shipping and greenhouse maintenance.

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.

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