Cresco Greenhouse & Plantpeddler Anniversary.

Two historic anniversaries occur, 100 years for CGH and 10 years for PP. Pretty amazing considering the odds.

With area demand, PPW opens in September providing weekly truck service to a regional group of traditional florists.

In March, due to an increased demand for products from the two retail locations, Plantpeddler breaks ground on first major expansion.  The new facility features 4- 21′ x 144′ Campbell O’Brien polyethylene covered houses.

Arnie and Pauline Kubalsky become the owners. Pauline is the daughter of Peter Kolind and grew up in the business.

Following in his parents’ footsteps, John Gooder graduates from Iowa State in Horticulture and Entrepreneurship. His leadership is leveraged to create an Operations department to complement Sales and Production. Covered area exceeds 400,000 sq. ft. with a core staff of 40, peaking at nearly 100.

Plantpeddler is licensed by Syngenta for Poinsettias, making PP the only company representing every major global breeder in NA.  Tag management and inventory moves in house.

Seasonal specialty capacity added at the PPYP facility with an addition of naturally ventilated Quonset space. Development and marketing of Aronia Berry production starts. Partner with Aronia Berry Services for field planting of liners.

The Japanese breeding company enters into an agreement with Plantpeddler for the development of Begonia Crackling Fire and development of the complete Suntory Collection. Begonia stock plant production is established for specialty and exclusive lines.

Plantpeddler is selected to develop a Midwest Rooting Station for industry leading genetics Ecke Poinsettias and Oglevee Geraniums.

The company restructures for growth by adding CFO Joan Leuenberger to the management team.  Team embarks on an aggressive five-year development plan.