The Nursery Industry

We are proud to be located in the state recognized as the second largest producer of nursery products in the United States. Likewise, we are pleased to work with many of the growers that are responsible for Florida’s leadership. Production typically supplies plants for residential, commercial and municipal landscaping needs throughout the United States. Many flowers, shrubs and trees make up the sector, including (1) Woody Ornamentals; (2) Shade & Flowering Trees; (3) Palms & Tropicals; (4) Shrubs & Perennials; (5) Groundcovers & grasses; and (6) Containerized Fruit Trees.

Three main irrigation systems dominate the nursery industry, including Overhead Sprinkler Irrigation Systems, Micro-Sprinkler/Micro-Jet Irrigation Systems and Drip irrigation Systems. A fourth type, Capillary Mats & Subirrigation, sees limited use.

Overhead Sprinkler Irrigation Systems are the most common form of irrigation within the nursery industry. These are common in container and field nurseries, shadehouses and propagation beds. These systems are relatively simple, have lower installation costs and provide uniform coverage.

Micro-Sprinker/Micro-Jet Irrigation, the second most popular, are typically used for container-grown ornamentals, shrubs, propagation zones and young woody plants. These systems are water efficient and compatible with fertigation.

Drip Irrigation Systems are third most common irrigation system and used for large containers, trees, hedge rows and pop-in-pot systems. They provide highly precise water delivery and are a favorite for BMP.

While limited in use, Capillary Mats & Subirrigation are used in greenhouses, line production and mall pots. Additional users include nurseries growing young starts, plugs or liners. These systems conserve water, offer labor savings and keep foliage dry.