Description
Perennial Grower
Sargent’s Nursery, Inc. in Red Wing is seeking a Perennial Grower to join our greenhouse and nursery production team. This role is responsible for producing healthy, high-quality perennial plants for our retail environment and plays a key role in the daily care, organization, and leadership of perennial production.
Why Work at Sargent’s Nursery, Inc.?
Sargent’s is a wonderful place to work, with a culture built on respect, professionalism, fun, and genuine friendship.
Our team is supportive, collaborative, and passionate about plants. April and May require extra focus and commitment, which is appreciated and supported by a shared effort by all teams.
We are committed to training, education, and professional growth, and we welcome individuals who bring experience, fresh ideas, and pride in their work.
Position Overview
As a Perennial Grower, you will be involved in all aspects of perennial crop production—from planning and planting to daily care and preparation for sale. You’ll report to the Perennial Manager and work closely with the Assistant Perennial Manager to ensure our plants meet Sargent’s high standards for quality and consistency.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, values plant health and quality, and is ready to lead by example during our busiest seasons.
Compensation & Benefits
Starting pay: $20–$22 per hour, based on experience and qualifications
Overtime: Available during peak production months
Employee Discount: 25% off purchases
Training & Development: On-the-job training and opportunities to expand skills and leadership capacity
Work Environment: Supportive, team-oriented culture with strong connections to leadership
We are open to discussing pay needs for candidates who bring valuable experience, leadership skills, or specialized knowledge to the position.
Employment Type & Schedule
Full-time, seasonal schedule includes weekends in April and May, with rotating weekends for the remainder of the growing season, with approximately 2–3 months off during the winter
Daily working environment varies; sun, heat, cold, rain, etc.
Willingness to work overtime during peak months is required, as spring production requires focused effort and teamwork
Potential for the role to evolve into year-round employment in the future, depending on business needs, team structure, and candidate fit
Opportunities for year-round roles typically arise through planned transitions and retirements, which may occur within the next 1–3 years
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Production Management: Plan, plant, pot, and maintain perennial crops, including pruning, weeding, and overall plant health management
Cultural Care: Manage irrigation systems, apply fertilizers, and monitor for pests and diseases using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices
Inventory & Logistics: Track perennial inventory and prepare plants for retail sale
Equipment Operation: Safely operate greenhouse and nursery equipment, machinery, and tools
Team Leadership (experience-dependent): Help direct daily tasks, train team members, and support production staff
Customer Service: Provide knowledgeable and friendly assistance to customers when needed
Safety & Efficiency: Promote a safe, organized, and efficient work environment
Qualifications & Skills
Degree in horticulture, agriculture, a related field, or prior greenhouse/nursery production experience
Strong understanding of plant care, soils, irrigation, and environmental conditions
Attention to detail and ability to monitor plant health and production quality
Ability to lift up to 30 lbs. and work on your feet for extended periods
Experience with greenhouse pest management
Leadership Opportunity
Leadership responsibilities within this role will scale based on the candidate’s skills and experience. For the right individual, this position offers opportunities to take on increased responsibility in production oversight, staff coordination, and decision-making.
As our team evolves, strong performers may be considered for advanced or upper-level roles as openings become available.
