Emerald Coast Growers Expands Perennial Production

Jennifer Zurko

Emerald Coast Growers has added 21,504 sq. ft. at their Pensacola, Florida, facility to refocus and expand their perennial offering, as well as increase efficiency and crop quality, said Josiah Raymer, head grower for Emerald Coast.

This latest expansion adds greenhouse space at Pensacola, allowing them to shift Phlox subulata production and add new crops at their Pace, Florida, location. Plans at Pensacola include ramp-up of the popular 128 size, which always sells out early, as well as expanding their already robust Phlox program featuring the full color spectrum: crisp white, deep rosy red, bicolors, purple-blue and pinks. The new house holds 9,600 trays of phlox and heuchera.

The gutter-connected Atlas greenhouse features automated roll-ups and natural venting. It’s equipped with double inflated poly tops with shade cloth, plus HPS lighting, Schaefer HAF fans, Netafim irrigation, a Micro Grow Ventmate Plus control system and Hired Hand heaters, all purchased through BWI.

The move brings Emerald Coast Growers’ total production at locations in Florida and Pennsylvania to well over 450,000 sq. ft. under cover, plus 100 acres of farmland.

For more information or to order any of Emerald Coast Growers’ products, call (877) 804-7277 or visit www.ecgrowers.com. GT