Foliage and Filler Producers
Where They Work
People working in this industry usually work for cut flower producers, flower wholesalers, florists and are sometimes self-employed. Florists require foliage plants and flowers which are used as fillers to bulk up bunches of flowers.
What Do They Do
Foliage and filler growers work in the field growing many different types of plants ranging from annual type flowers through to perennial shrubs and trees. Apart from picking the produce, you will be responsible for meeting the plants cultural requirements as a premium product is needed to supply the floral industry.
What is Needed
At an entry level, pickers are required to harvest the
different types of foliage and flowers, however this will require a good
understanding of some basic horticultural knowledge such as correct
pruning techniques and understanding when the correct time is to harvest
flowers. It is anticipated that people working in this industry are
able to identify many different species of plants.
On a technical level, foliage and flowers need to meet several
criteria so as they are presentable and marketable. At this level a very
good understanding of plant and soil nutrition, cultural requirements,
identifying pests and diseases, can identify plants using its botanical
name, and post-harvest techniques are required.
Whilst many plants are grown in the field some species of plant are grown in various structures such as shade or green houses. Growing plants inside these types of structures, especially one where the environment can be controlled, has many advantages such as excluding many pests. An understanding of growing plants in controlled environments requires a very sound understanding of meeting the optimal environmental conditions applied to different plants. However, in an environment which is ideal for growing plants many pathogens also flourish in these environments. Close monitoring and prompt steps need to be taken when something is affecting the plants, hence, having the technical ability to identify and remedy the problem is very important.
Opportunities
There are many opportunities for people in this industry supplying markets, wholesale florists, and retail florists.
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