Justin Valdez

Certified Nurseries

Director of rose research & development

What 3 to 4 professional and/or personal accomplishments are you most proud of?

• The deep knowledge I’ve gained in rose genetics and attributes, particularly through the mentorship of my predecessor, Tom Carruth, a world-renowned rose breeder and curator at the Huntington Library. His guidance has helped me develop an eye for identifying what the market desires or is missing and how to use our genetic library to develop roses that fill those gaps. By creating roses with distinctive colors, fragrances and unique growth habits, I’m able to introduce innovative varieties that bring something special, fresh and beautiful to different markets.
• Establishing strong professional relationships within the industry.
• Creating programs that bring growers and retailers together. These programs have helped build strong relationships, improve product availability and support business growth. Working closely with both sides, I’ve been able to develop solutions that make things more efficient and beneficial for everyone involved.

What led you to work in the horticulture industry?

• My start in the horticulture industry was at a young age. My dad played a significant role in shaping my career path, instilling a deep appreciation for nature and the hard work that goes into growing and business. The opportunity to start my professional career in horticulture was both exciting and fulfilling, especially as I became involved in trialing and introducing new and innovative roses to the U.S. market. 
• The prospect of bringing fresh varieties to growers and consumers fueled my enthusiasm for the industry. Horticulture has not only provided me with a career, but also a sense of purpose that blends tradition, innovation and love for nature. As I continue this path, I look forward to further contributing to the industry, expanding my knowledge and helping shape the future of horticulture.

What’s the best thing about your job? (Please select one)

• I get to do what I love, every day

Describe to a 6-year-old what you do in life?

• I help find new plants and flowers for us to grow and enjoy in our yards.

What are your favorite hobbies?

• Playing golf 
• Hunting and fishing 
• Spending time outside

When you’re not working, what are 2 to 3 things we could find you doing?

• Spending time with my wife and dogs 
• Playing golf 
• Outdoor projects

Do you have any unusual talents, or can you tell us something interesting about yourself that other people may be surprised to find out?

• Gardening

One thing you can’t live without?

• My beautiful wife

What are you (un)secretly good at?

• Cooking

What are your top three bucket list items?

• Attend the Masters golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia and the Waste Management Phoenix Open 
• See the northern lights in Alaska 
• Hunt red stags in Ireland

What’s your favorite plant variety and why?

• My favorite is the rainbow eucalyptus tree. It has a vibrant, multicolored bark. I really enjoy seeing something so rare and unique.

You’re buying a vacation package to anywhere in the world without a budget, where are you going?

• Ireland