Propagator Grower

Bailey Nurseries Inc.; Newport (MN); On-site; USD 30,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Bailey Nurseries Inc. in Newport, MN seeks a Full Time Laborer/Grower-Propagator to support propagation, rooting, and early-stage production of woody and perennial crops in greenhouse settings, hoop houses, and outdoor beds.

You will monitor irrigation, fertility, and environmental controls (Argus Titan, Qcom) to ensure high rooting success and liner quality while maintaining detailed crop records and collaborating with the Lead Grower and Plant Health team.

Qualifications

• Horticulture degree or experience in horticulture.
• Understanding of plant care, germination, vegetative and container production.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Monday.com) and greenhouse environmental control systems like Argus or Qcom.
• Strong understanding of mist propagation and environmental control strategies.
• Working knowledge of irrigation systems and water quality management.
• Experience managing EC, pH, and fertility in soilless substrates.
• Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets company insurability standards.
• Evening and weekend work required during peak propagation season.

Responsibilities

• Follow instructions from Lead Grower.
• Monitor and adjust misting and irrigation cycles.
• Ensure uniform rooting, callus formation, and liner quality.
• Maintain crop records including rooting percentages and timings.
• Manage environmental controls with Argus Titan and Qcom.
• Support crop planning and sanitation in propagation zones.

Skills

Horticulture

Germination

Irrigation systems

EC management

pH management

Greenhouse experience

Driver's license

Education

Horticulture degree

Tools

Argus Titan

Qcom

Boom irrigation

Microsoft 365

Job description

Full Time Laborer Newport, MN, US

$22.00 To $24.00 Hourly

Salary Range:$22.00 to $24.00 an hour

Reports To: Lead Grower

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Full Time Grower/Propagator

Position Summary:

The Grower/Propagator is responsible for the successful propagation, rooting, and early-stage production of woody and perennial ornamental crops across his/her greenhouse section consisting of hoop houses, gutter-connected ranges, and outdoor beds. This role oversees environmental control, irrigation management, fertility programs, and plant health, while ensuring high-quality liners for finishing production for his/her greenhouse section. The Grower/Propagator is accountable for achieving high rooting success, uniform liner quality, and efficient labor utilization.

The Grower/Propagator works within a technology-driven environment utilizing Argus Titan and Qcom environmental control systems, GTI and Cherry Creek Systems booms, as well as other irrigation systems. This role is production-critical and directly impacts crop timing, shrink, and downstream finishing performance.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Follow instructions from Lead Grower.
• Monitor, adjust misting and irrigation cycles based on weather, light, crop stage, and season.
• Ensure uniform rooting, callus formation, and liner quality.
• Maintain detailed crop records including rooting percentages, timing, crop stage, and performance.
• Utilize Argus and Qcom to manage temperature, humidity, venting, and irrigation scheduling.
• Implement liquid fertilizer programs during propagation and early liner stages.
• Manage controlled-release fertilizer (CRF) where applicable.
• Monitor and correct substrate EC and pH to maintain optimal rooting conditions.
• Work with management to refine fertility strategies based on crop response and season.
• Scout crops regularly for disease, insect pressure, weeds, nutrient deficiencies, and Abiotic stress.
• Collaborate with Plant Health team on preventative and corrective strategies.
• Work with production crews on crop placement, cutting harvest, cutback schedule
• Maintain sanitation standards in his/her propagation zones.
• Ensure uniform, retail-ready liner quality standards.
• Communicate proactively with Lead Grower and Department Head regarding crop progress and challenges.
• Participate in crop planning.

Qualifications Required:

• Horticulture degree or experience in horticulture.
• Understanding of plant care, germination, vegetative and container production.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Monday.com) and greenhouse environmental control systems like Argus or Qcom.
• Strong understanding of mist propagation and environmental control strategies.
• Working knowledge of irrigation systems and water quality management.
• Experience managing EC, pH, and fertility in soilless substrates.
• Valid driver’s license with a driving record that meets company insurability standards.
• Evening and weekend work required during peak propagation season.

Qualifications Preferred:

• Experience with Argus Titan or Qcom or similar greenhouse climate systems.
• Experience operating boom irrigation systems.
• Some mechanical aptitude
• High attention to detail.
• Strong observational and diagnostic ability.
• Ability to adapt quickly to seasonal changes.
• Organized and process oriented.
• Bilingual in Spanish/English is a plus.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment:

This position requires frequent standing, walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching. The employee must regularly lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds with assistance. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors, with exposure to weather conditions such as humidity, heat, cold, rain, and wind. PPE may be required, and the role may involve exposure to dust, fertilizers, pesticides, and noise.

Disclaimer:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Other duties may include participating in planting, grading, shipping and greenhouse maintenance.

Bailey Nurseries is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Employment with Bailey Nurseries is at-will and may be terminated at any time by either party, in accordance with applicable law.