August 2025 Associations, Education

Building stronger teams through Spanish-language training By Alejandra Feliciano

Boost team morale and operational success by offering Spanish-language horticulture training. Invest in your workforce’s growth todayAs the horticulture workforce continues to diversify, providing training in Spanish is not just a thoughtful gesture — it’s a strategic move that promotes workforce inclusion, boosts morale and strengthens operational outcomes. 

TRAINING: A PILLAR OF OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE

Quality training is the backbone of a high-performing horticulture operation. It ensures employees understand best practices, follow safety protocols and contribute meaningfully to crop quality and company success. Training signals to employees that they are valued members of a team and worthy of investment. It fosters a learning culture where people feel empowered to ask questions, improve their skills and grow with the company. 

SPARKING CONVERSATIONS AND CURIOSITY

Spanish-language training does more than convey information — it opens doors for dialogue and deeper understanding.

“When my team watched the videos, they had questions and were really engaged,” said Rupert Saavedra, head grower at N.G. Heimos Greenhouses. “Afterward, we had a great discussion. I asked if it was helpful, and they said, ‘Yes, keep them coming!’ 

These kinds of exchanges create space for managers and employees to go beyond surface-level instructions. They allow for richer discussions about horticultural practices, reasoning behind protocols and the broader purpose behind daily tasks. This deepened understanding can translate into higher quality work, better decision-making and greater team cohesion. 

FOSTERING BELONGING AND BOOSTING MOTIVATION 

A greenhouse thrives when its workforce feels respected, supported and unified. Providing training in Spanish contributes to a positive work culture by sending a clear message: “You belong here.” 

Alfredo Rios, plant health manager at Loma Vista Nursery, has witnessed this effect firsthand. “The Spanish- language content gave my team a sense of belonging to the industry,” Rios said. “They felt included, not just by aligning with our company’s messaging but by understanding best practices across the industry. I believe that kind of inclusion can lead to happier, more efficient and more productive employees.” 

When employees feel seen and heard, they’re more likely to take pride in their work and stay motivated. Spanish- language training eliminates communication barriers and gives team members the confidence to engage with educational content directly — without relying solely on translations or interpretations from others. 

Juan Sebastian Ponce, director of horticulture at Metrolina Greenhouses, echoed this sentiment.

“When I shared the Spanish-language education with my team, they were excited and grateful,” he said. “They said the content answered a lot of their questions — things I hadn’t even thought to explain. Even though I try to help in Spanish when I can, I just don’t have the time to cover everything. The videos gave them clarity and made them feel included. Their reaction was even better than I expected.” 

THE PATH FORWARD: INCLUSIVE EDUCATION 

As the horticulture industry continues to evolve, success will depend not just on innovation in the greenhouse but also on improving how we support and engage the people who power it. Providing Spanish-language training is a simple yet powerful way to strengthen your workforce, improve communication and nurture a culture of professional inclusion and excellence.

At AmericanHort, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive — no matter their native language. That’s why the AmericanHort Learning Center now offers training sessions in both English and Spanish, covering essential topics like pest management, plant nutrition, irrigation and much more. 

INVEST IN YOUR TEAM’S SUCCESS 

AmericanHort members can access these courses in the online Learning Center, along with many other professional development resources designed to help you grow your people and your business. Learn more at americanhort.org/spanished.