Skagit Horticulture Adds New Clean-Stock Greenhouse
Skagit Horticulture, Mabton, Washington, has opened a new, clean-stock greenhouse to complement the large-scale production of select agricultural plant starts launched last year.
The new greenhouse will produce high volumes of virus-free transplants to serve the needs of hop growers, vineyard operators and orchardists.
Using a small group of stock obtained from the National Clean Plant Network, the company produces tissue culture to create a foundation stock block that will be used for softwood cuttings. This mother block will be isolated into the clean-stock greenhouse where restricted access and strict sanitation practices are part of the company’s rigorous production protocols.
Insect screening ensures no pest pressure in the greenhouse, which reduces need for chemical applications, as well as eliminating virus vectors.
The company also has promoted Debbie Thorne to the position of Agriculture Department Manager. She will oversee all aspects of the Specialty Ag division, including sales of hops, wine grapes, berries and tree fruits.
In the photo above, Thorne celebrates the opening of the clean-stock greenhouse with Scott Crownover, president and CEO.
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