From gardening “just to save money” to developing a full-blown plant addiction, Allyson found her way to Sargent’s at just the right time. Her passion for plants, love of coneflowers, and appreciation for both the beauty and challenges of greenhouse work make her an essential part of the team, and her story is as inspiring as it is fun!
Allyson Greden
Title: Greenhouse Supervisor
Year Started at Sargent’s: 2024
What sparked your interest in horticulture, and how did you end up at Sargent’s?
“After I graduated college, I figured I’d try gardening to grow my own vegetables and save some money. I ended up with a gardening addiction and did not save any money. While fueling my plant shopping addiction, I went to Sargent’s once and instantly loved it. At the time, I happened to be looking for a career change and Sargent’s happened to be hiring!”
What do you enjoy most about working in greenhouse production?
“It’s so hard to choose just one thing! I love seeing hundreds of flowers in bloom every day, the smell of the greenhouse in spring, and being outside all summer. The people I get to work with are also amazing. They make me laugh every day and make coming to work fun!”
Is there a favorite plant you most enjoy working with?
“I’m a sucker for a coneflower. Purpurea, pallida, paradoxa, or any cultivar. They’re so colorful, they bloom for a very long time, they smell great, and pollinators love them. If I had to pick one favorite, I’d pick the Sombrero Sangrita.
Do you have a favorite tip or piece of advice for someone trying to care for plants at home?
“Cutting back plants can be super helpful. It can improve airflow and prevent powdery mildew. I do this with squash leaves that touch other leaves or plants or any plants that might prevent airflow to Phlox or Monarda. Some plants, like Salvia and Nepeta, will re-flush and bloom again.”
What's one behind-the-scenes detail about greenhouse work that might be surprising to hear?
“It goes without saying that greenhouses get HOT in the summer, but I can’t emphasize enough just how hot. We have two greenhouses that we shut down by June because of how hot they get. On really hot days, we actually work outside to stay cool. Just the other day when it was only 70 degrees outside, one greenhouse thermometer I looked at read 110!”
Why Sargent's?
“Sargent’s cares about their employees and the product they deliver to their customers. Not every company puts in as much attention and detail. It gives me, as an employee, a sense of pride in what I do.”
Outside of your role at Sargent's, what hobbies or pastimes keep you busy?
“I do a lot of gardening (obviously). I am also an avid baker, I show my horses, I go camping with my husband, and play with my cats.”
What's something unique that people may not know about you?
“I have a wildland firefighter certification and have helped with 50 acres of prescribed burns. It’s fun to play with controlled fire!”
