When talking with Dave Mackenzie you can feel his passion for innovation in his work and drive for continuous improvement. Dave is the owner of wholesale nursery and product developer Hortech, a leader in the horticultural industry largely due to a unique approach to growing plants. They were the first nursery in Michigan to use bio-controls, which involve natural insects and organisms to manage pests instead of harmful chemicals. Dave, who has a background in biology, realized that pesticides were weakening plants and making pests stronger. By using natural methods, Hortech’s plants grew healthier and stronger.
Switching to bio-controls was adopted easily within the team. Staff could reduce time in plastic suits applying chemicals, making their work safer and more enjoyable. Some customers appreciated the benefits, like saving resources and avoiding pesticides, though others needed proof that it worked. Over time, comparing plants treated with bio-controls alongside those treated with chemicals helped earn the trust of those who were initially doubtful. And as bio-controls became more common and accepted in the industry, it became easier for both customers and the market to adapt.
Innovation and efficiency have been key focuses for Hortech outside of just their bio-controls practice. Inspired by Toyota's lean manufacturing systems, Hortech worked with a consultant to simplify processes, reduce plant growth time, cut losses and encourage continuous improvement across all sectors.
By creating a culture of continuous improvement Hortech is able to rely on detailed data to make decisions, something they didn’t have 30 years ago when they opened the business. This includes careful documentation of every part of their growing process, from the types of plants and soil used for plant care. This information is stored and used to continually improve the precise "recipes" for growing each plant. They also use a management calendar to plan tasks based on years of experience, which helps them stay organized and efficient.
The most recent improvement to Hortech’s workflow and productivity has been replacing outdated structures with more efficient, user-friendly spaces.
“Previously, our office and storage areas were spread across two buildings in one location and a leased warehouse in a second location. There were many inefficiencies with constant back-and-forth movement between two locations. Now, we've consolidated everything under one roof, gaining extra space and creating a more professional environment. Additionally, we built a new warehouse on-site, eliminating the need to rent a distant location and improving our operational efficiency.”
This new office and warehouse development includes three outdoor and eight indoor living walls, and two SolaRoof green roofs—one showcasing various plant styles and the other incorporating an innovative solar-green roof combination. These products were designed by Dave and his team and marketed through Hortech’s subsidiary, LiveWall, Inc. SolaRoof helps absorb stormwater and keeps the building cool, which makes the solar panels work more efficiently. This new system not only makes their building more energy-efficient but also supports sustainable practices.
Hortech also values connecting with the next generation of workers through career exploration activities.
“Many students from fields like ecology and sociology see connections to horticulture, and even the marijuana industry has introduced more young people to this field,” Dave told us. “Hortech has benefited from this influx of young talent through internships and summer programs, particularly from local high schools and universities like Grand Valley State and Michigan State. These young people bring enthusiasm and new ideas, gain valuable experience, and contribute to Hortech’s growth.”
Echoing Dave’s testament to youth interest in horticulture is HR Generalist Alicia DeCheney. “Connecting jobs in horticulture to the next generation can have a big impact. During a recent MiCareerQuest event, a high school student was inspired by the plants I brought and later called to express a strong interest in working at Hortech,” Alicia told us. “She has a passion for horticulture and desire to address environmental issues. By providing young people with meaningful work, Hortech helps bridge the gap between education and employment, nurturing future horticulturists who are driven to make a positive impact.”
Looking ahead, the future of Hortech will involve continuous refinement rather than drastic changes. Over the next five years they will be working on making native plants more appealing and practical for home gardens. They are also developing new plant varieties that perform well in urban settings, reflecting their commitment to innovation and adapting to real-world challenges.
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