Annual Greenhouse Grower / Coach

Natorp’s Annuals Department – Mason, Ohio

About Natorp’s

For nearly 110 years, Natorp’s has been a proud, family‑owned leader in the green industry. Now operated by the fourth generation, the company continues its long tradition of quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service.

Natorp’s specializes in:

• Landscape design and installation

• Retail garden operations

• Wholesale growing and distribution

With extensive growing facilities, Natorp’s produces a full range of plant material—from container-grown trees and shrubs to annuals, perennials, and field-grown crops supplied to independent garden centers and wholesale clients across the region.

Our retail garden outlet, open for a focused 20‑week season, consistently ranks among the Top 100 garden centers in the United States.

Rooted in family values and horticultural excellence, Natorp’s continues to grow, evolve, and cultivate the landscapes and communities it serves.

About the Annuals Department

Natorp’s Annuals Department operates a highly efficient 4‑acre greenhouse facility dedicated to producing premium annuals for both retail and wholesale customers. This fast‑paced, high‑volume production environment grows over 500,000 units annually, ensuring consistent quality and reliable supply throughout the season.

The department produces a diverse range of formats, including:

• 306 flats

• 3”, 4.5”, 6.5”, and 8” containers

• 12” hanging baskets

• 14” planters

With a commitment to innovation, precision, and plant health, the Annuals Department plays a vital role in supporting Natorp’s retail success and wholesale partnerships.

Position: Annual Greenhouse Grower / Coach

The Annual Greenhouse Grower is a key leadership role responsible for managing all aspects of annual plant production. This position oversees section growers and team members, collaborates closely with the Plant Health Specialist, and partners with the Grower/Production Coach to ensure exceptional crop quality, efficiency, and safety.

This is an opportunity for a passionate horticulture professional to lead a high‑performing team and influence the success of one of the region’s most respected greenhouse operations.

Key Responsibilities

Greenhouse & Crop Management

• Oversee all stages of annual plant production to ensure high-quality, on‑time crops.

• Manage environmental controls, including air/soil temperature, ventilation, irrigation, humidity, and fertility.

• Receive and care for young plant liners.

• Monitor plant health daily and make timely adjustments to maintain optimal growth.

• Conduct daily insect and disease scouting; collaborate with the Plant Health Specialist and Grower/Production Coach to minimize crop loss.

• Strategically plan and execute crop placement to maximize space and growing conditions.

• Ensure all greenhouse facilities and equipment operate safely and efficiently.

Team Leadership

• Supervise, mentor, and train Section Growers and team members.

• Foster a collaborative, productive, and growth‑oriented work environment.

• Lead by example with strong communication, organization, and problem‑solving skills.

Quality & Recordkeeping

• Maintain detailed records of crop progress, environmental conditions, pest management, and team activities.

• Conduct daily crop checks and weekly walkthroughs with the Grower/Production Coach.

• Evaluate processes for efficiency, effectiveness, and safety, contributing to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 3+ years as a Head Grower or 5+ years as an Assistant Grower in a large commercial greenhouse (preferred).

• 3+ years of direct leadership experience.

• Strong passion for plants, quality, and innovation.

• Proven leadership and team‑building skills.

• Ability to set priorities, work independently, and meet goals with minimal supervision.

• Excellent time management, communication, and organizational skills.

• Ability to multitask in a fast‑paced environment.

• Willingness to work weekends as needed.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $65,000–$80,000 (based on experience)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• 401(k)

• Relocation assistance available