Natural Resources: Adapting to Changes in Water Availability and Quality
As the nursery industry continues to grow in response to increased demand for ornamental plants, growers must carefully manage their finite natural resources, particularly water. The availability and quality of water for crop production will likely face significant challenges in the coming decades.
Climate change projections indicate that average global temperatures will continue to rise, with an estimated 1.4°C increase from 2021 to 2050 (US Global Change Research Program, 2017). Along with these temperature increases, precipitation patterns are expected to become more erratic, with some regions experiencing more frequent and intense droughts, while others see an uptick in heavy rainfall events. These shifting weather patterns will affect the timing and intensity of irrigation needs for nursery crops.
Growers must adapt their irrigation methods and plant selection to address these changing water availability trends. Innovative strategies, such as the design or reevaluation of on-site retention reservoirs, can help capture surface water during storm events for later use (Yazdi et al., 2021). Additionally, prioritizing drought-tolerant plant species and cultivars will be crucial for maintaining productivity in the face of prolonged dry periods.
Another critical issue is the potential for chemical, biological, and physical contaminants in the water used for irrigation. Sediment, pesticides, and even harmful algal blooms can compromise plant health and raise environmental concerns (Gallagher et al., 2001; Watson et al., 2015). Growers must proactively address contaminant management through improved sediment control, careful pesticide application, and potentially investing in water treatment technologies. Maintaining clean water and demonstrating environmental stewardship will be essential for nurturing positive community perceptions.
Addressing the long-term sustainability of natural resources, such as water, will be a primary challenge for the nursery industry in the coming years. By adapting their practices, investing in infrastructure, and prioritizing ecological considerations, growers can position their operations for continued success amid these evolving environmental conditions.
Consumer Perceptions and Preferences
The nursery industry is uniquely influenced by consumer trends and preferences, often more so than other agricultural sectors. Understanding and adapting to changing consumer behaviors are crucial for maintaining the industry’s growth and profitability.
Consumers in the nursery industry can be broadly categorized into three groups: plant-oriented, price-oriented, and production-oriented (Behe et al., 2014). The plant-oriented consumers, who make up the majority, tend to prioritize the aesthetic and functional qualities of plants, often seeking out specialty and novel varieties. As new homeowners enter the market, this consumer segment represents a significant opportunity for the industry, as they often invest in landscaping and plant purchases to personalize their homes (National Association of Realtors, 2022).
Effective communication of the benefits that plants provide, beyond their visual appeal, is key to engaging these consumers. Plants offer a range of emotional, physical, social, environmental, and economic benefits, such as improved mental well-being, air purification, and energy savings (Chalmin-Pui et al., 2021; Park and Mattson, 2009). By highlighting these “benefits, not just features,” the nursery industry can better connect with consumers and drive demand (Hall and Knuth, 2019).
Furthermore, consumer preferences are shifting towards more sustainable and environmentally conscious purchases. Factors such as local sourcing, compostable or recycled packaging, and eco-friendly production methods are gaining prominence in purchasing decisions (Yue et al., 2011; Isaak and Lentz, 2020). The industry must adapt by implementing and promoting these practices, as well as educating consumers on the environmental impact of their choices.
Another notable trend is the rising popularity of native plant species. Legislation at the state and national levels, such as the Native Plant Species Pilot Program Act passed by Congress in 2022, further underscores the importance of native plants in landscaping and land management. Nurseries should capitalize on this trend by expanding their offerings of native plant varieties and communicating their benefits to consumers.
As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the nursery industry must remain agile and responsive. Effective marketing, branding, and educational initiatives will be crucial in connecting with increasingly discerning and sustainability-minded customers.
Labor Challenges and Automation
One of the critical challenges facing the nursery industry is the ongoing labor shortage. The sector has experienced a decreasing supply of family labor and an increased demand for hired labor, leading to significant workforce challenges (Escalante et al., 2020; USDA NASS, 2023).
Several factors contribute to the labor shortage, including the seasonal and temporary nature of many nursery jobs, the physically demanding work, and the long hours required. Additionally, changes in immigration and guest worker policies have made it more difficult for the industry to access the labor it needs (Adegbola et al., 2019; Escalante et al., 2020).
To address these labor challenges, the nursery industry is exploring automation and mechanization as potential solutions. Autonomous greenhouses, robotic systems, and advanced technologies such as sensors, high-definition cameras, and artificial intelligence (AI) applications are being investigated to streamline production and mitigate labor-intensive tasks (Posadas et al., 2008; Rihn et al., 2022).
However, the adoption of automation and mechanization varies widely across the industry, often depending on the scale and production methods of individual operations. The cost of implementing these technologies can be prohibitive, and the industry must also address perceptions regarding worker welfare and the impact on job opportunities.
In the meantime, the nursery industry has increasingly relied on guest worker programs, such as the H-2A visa program, to supplement its labor needs (US Department of Labor, 2022). While this can provide a temporary solution, the industry must also work to improve the availability and retention of domestic labor through initiatives like enhanced training and improved working conditions.
As the nursery industry navigates these labor challenges, a multifaceted approach, including automation, mechanization, and collaboration with policymakers and workforce development programs, will be essential for ensuring a sustainable and reliable labor force in the years to come.
Embracing Change and Seizing Opportunities
The US nursery industry is poised for continued growth, driven by shifting markets, increased efficiency, and advancements in plant materials. However, the industry must also confront a range of uncertainties and challenges to maintain its momentum.
Adapting to changes in natural resource availability, consumer preferences, and labor dynamics will be critical for the nursery industry’s success in the coming decade. By proactively addressing these issues, growers and industry stakeholders can position their operations for long-term sustainability and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Investing in water management infrastructure, promoting environmentally responsible practices, and developing resilient plant varieties will help the industry navigate the impacts of climate change and water scarcity. Similarly, understanding evolving consumer trends and effectively communicating the benefits of ornamental plants will enable the industry to better meet the demands of an increasingly discerning and sustainability-conscious market.
Furthermore, embracing automation, mechanization, and innovative labor strategies will be crucial in addressing the ongoing workforce challenges. By leveraging technology and collaborating with policymakers, the nursery industry can ensure a reliable and efficient labor force to support its growth.
As the industry continues to adapt to these dynamic conditions, it must also remain nimble and responsive to unforeseen events, such as the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Maintaining a diversified product portfolio, building strong supply chain relationships, and fostering a culture of innovation will enable the nursery industry to navigate future uncertainties and seize new possibilities.
By proactively addressing the key drivers of change – natural resources, consumer perceptions, and labor – the nursery industry can ensure its long-term viability and continue to contribute significantly to the nation’s economy, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of communities across the United States.
