“We became certified organic as a grower a year and a half ago, but most of our ship-to customers, the growers, are not certified,” explains Juan St. Amant, who is in charge of product development at Plug Connection. “The process was not being carried through. That’s why we started the finished program.”

The intent is to spin out Organiks as a separate company supported by a network of regional growers. Retail customers include independent garden centers, grocery stores, FTD.com and trendy lifestyle chains including Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Smith & Hawken.

Industry veteran Joe Messer joined the company as president in July but has been working with Plug Connection owner Tim Wada on the program for about a year. Messer grew up in a fourth-generation family greenhouse operation and has had dual careers working for flower breeders and in the medical industry for orthopedics equipment companies. Past employers include S&G Flowers, Daehnfeldt and Oglevee, all of which were purchased by other companies during his tenure.

“I told Tim, you’re gonna hire me and somebody is going to buy your company now!” Messer says.

Next year, the Organiks brand will expand to include ancillary earth-friendly products, such as fertilizer, pots, soil amendments, cooking utensils and even pet supplies. “Retailers are asking us for more products,” Messer says. “All of us are more concerned about the environment. Organic plants is just one thing. People talk about the light bulbs they use, the trash they recycle. Organics are just part of that.” GG