Plant Nurseries in New England: Experiences on How to Start & Succeed

If you’ve ever considered starting a plant nursery, this one’s for you. Whether your goals are driven by a passion for plants, frustrations with supply, or a desire to meet local needs, our panel of three nursery growers and owners will share recommendations for success. Leveraging their different business models, we’ll cover everything from sustainability, the changing business climate, lessons learned, and motivations and goals for owning a nursery. 

In partnership with the Maine Landscape and Nursery Association, this online lecture, part of the Green Spotlight Series, is designed for landscape and horticulture professionals. This presentation accounts for MELNA 1 recertification credit.

Recently retired, Peter Van Berkum founded and operated Van Berkum Nursery for 37 years, specializing in growing and selling native and unique non-native plants intended for hardy and ecologically friendly New England gardens. On 22 acres in New Hampshire, Van Berkum Nursery continues to grow and sell hundreds of thousands of plants wholesale throughout the Northeast.

Sharon Turner, owner and grower of Crystal Lake Farm in rural Washington, Maine, began her nursery almost 20 years ago with her son Eli Berry, where they grow and sell to retail and wholesale patrons. They specialize in native woody & herbaceous plants grown from seed and seedling starts, and much of their production is grown inground. Throughout Midcoast-Downeast, Maine, Sharon teaches garden design classes, among other garden subjects.

Pamela Hargest, a gardener and garden educator, established Sweetfern Nursery in 2019 with Garrett Bent with the mission to provide a diverse and high-quality selection of native perennials propagated by seed. Located in Ogunquit, Maine, they sell their plants online to the general public with pick-up or delivery options.