Grow Like a Rock Star: Jason Sbiral’s Journey from Groundbreaking to Greenhouse Innovation
Jason Sbiral's journey in the greenhouse industry has been a solid performance, with each day bringing something new and exciting. For over 27 years, Jason has been rocking it at Plantpeddler, where he now serves as the head grower and facility manager. His role has evolved over the years, but his commitment to producing high-quality plants remains the same. With a passion for horticulture and innovation, Jason has grown from managing a single crop to overseeing a full-scale production facility that consistently delivers top-tier young plants.
From Seed to Success: Jason’s Growing Journey
After graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in Forest Resource Management and Horticulture, Jason joined Plantpeddler, starting out managing crops like Yoder Azaleas and delivering plants to local garden centers. But his role soon expanded, and he soon took center stage as the manager of the newly built young plant facility. Jason’s responsibilities have grown along with the facility, where he oversees plant nutrition, pest management, and environmental controls in the greenhouse.
“No day for Jason is ever the same,” he says. “But if I was to say my number one goal is basically to do whatever I can to make everybody else’s job around me easier.”
His commitment to producing plants that are ready to hit the stage without extra care or maintenance is what drives him every day. “If I have great-looking plants that are ready to ship, with no extra maintenance, that’s a good day for me,” Jason adds.
The Breakthrough Gig
Like any rock star, Jason had a moment that set the course for his entire career. “When they decided to build the young plant facility, I was transferred from managing one crop and being a delivery driver to managing the whole new facility,” Jason says. “It was a defining moment for me.”
This moment marked the beginning of Jason’s full-time commitment to the young plant facility, where he’s been shaping its growth and success. And from that moment on, he’s been involved in every expansion and innovation at Plantpeddler. "I’ve been involved in every addition and implemented upgrade since that point," Jason adds.
His leadership and dedication to the company’s growth have played a major role in establishing Plantpeddler as a leader in the greenhouse industry.
What Gets Jason Amped Up
The dynamic nature of his job keeps Jason energized, like a live show where no two sets are ever alike. "I love the variation," Jason says. "People see what I have to do and they're like, ‘Oh my god, I can't believe you have to do all that.’ But actually, that’s probably the part that excites me the most. It's crazy, but it’s what keeps me passionate about the job. It never gets boring.”
Growing up in Iowa on a cattle and grain farm, Jason’s roots in agriculture run deep. His connection to the land shapes his approach to work, ensuring that every plant is nurtured with care and precision. "What excites me most is being able to work in the area I love, where I grew up." he says.
Jason’s energy isn’t just about the work itself but also about the opportunity to connect with a global network. “I get to work with people from all over the world, that’s exciting.”
Young Plant Production: Fast-Paced and High Stakes
Jason’s team at Plantpeddler is known for its young plant production, which requires precision and quick turnover. They’re constantly starting new plants while sending others out the door. “Most of our crops are on either a 3-week or 4-week cycle,” Jason explains. “So 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.”
For Jason, it’s a balancing act, almost like keeping the tempo of a fast-paced song. "It has to meet the demands of the customer. The customers are different because they're not end users. It's a user that has to have exactly what they want," he says. “The customers know what they should get, and they have to get what they want, otherwise they’re disappointed.”
The pressure of getting everything perfect means Jason is always working to ensure the timing is just right. Whether it’s holding the plants back or pushing them forward, the key is meeting expectations with no room for error.
Innovating for Efficiency: The Backstage Tech
To keep everything running smoothly, Jason embraces technology, much like a rock star depends on a reliable crew. "We have automation and computerized tools that are definitely way above what it would take in a normal greenhouse," Jason says. "If it was just a normal or a less sophisticated greenhouse, I would not be able to do what I do here at Plantpeddler."
For Jason, it’s not just about growing plants; it’s about doing it efficiently and effectively. The use of advanced technology in the greenhouse is akin to a well-coordinated backstage crew that ensures the show goes on without a hitch. From automated systems for filling trays to cutting-edge climate control, these technologies help Jason and his team stay on track and maintain the highest standards.
"We are always adapting and improving," Jason says. "The tech we use makes us more efficient, allowing us to grow plants better and faster."
Why PRO-MIX® FPX AGTIV DEFEND®* Rocks for Young Plants
When it comes to choosing the best growing medium, Jason knows that consistency is key. He relies on PRO-MIX® FPX AGTIV DEFEND® to provide the plants with the stability they need to thrive. With its perfect 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.
“We do trials every year,” Jason explains. “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.”
With these essentials in place, Jason’s plants are ready for their next tour, shipping out with minimal maintenance and maximum success. "The end result is the plant rooting well in that soil," Jason says. “That’s important—especially when you’re dealing with fast-paced production.”
Jason’s Biggest Influences
Every rockstar has a mentor or two who helped shape their career, and Jason is no different. “Mike Gooder (the CEO, President, Owner, Plantpeddler) saw the potential I had and put me in a position where I could grow,” Jason says. “And then there was Brenda Kubik, who was a local horticultural talent and probably one of the best growers I’ve ever worked with.”
He also credits Ron Derrig, a horticulture consultant, for being a constant source of knowledge and guidance. “Ron is like a walking encyclopedia,” Jason says. “Whenever I have a problem, I’m on the phone with him. He’s like the guru of our industry.”
Advice for New Growers: Keep Learning and Jamming with Others
Jason’s advice for up-and-coming growers is simple: be open to learning and collaborating. "There’s a lot of talent that’s been in the industry for a long time,” Jason says. “It’s one thing that’s unique about this industry: 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.”
He emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and learning from others: “People are always willing to tell stories or give examples of what helped them succeed, or what kept them from succeeding.”
A Rock-Solid Approach to Growing
Jason’s career in the greenhouse industry shows that success isn’t built on flash; it’s built on hard work, dedication, and constant improvement. By embracing both traditional horticulture and modern technologies, Jason continues to lead his team with a rock-solid approach, ensuring that every plant produced at Plantpeddler is ready to thrive.
To learn more about Plantpeddler, visit www.plantpeddler.com.
