New Memoir From a Horticulture Industry Icon Covers People, Plants, and Politics

Posted by Brian Sparks|February 13, 2023

Horticulture industry icon and Midwest Groundcovers founder Peter Orum has written a memoir, titled “People, Plants, and Politics.” Born in semi-rural Denmark during German occupation, Orum early on experienced hard work and adventure, a solid education, and the nurturing of a small and close-knit family.

Following apprenticeships and service in the Danish Army, Orum made his way across the Atlantic to work at a Midwestern nursery where, with the help of mentors, he began to plan for what would become one of the largest and most influential nursery operations in the region. Along the way, his outside interests — ranging from leadership and support of local, national, and international associations and foundations, to his collection of vintage World War II vehicles — helped to shape the story of his life.

“It has been an interesting journey through life, and now for a second time through this book. The journey has brought me to unbelievable joy and heartbreaking sadness, and everything in between,” Orum says. “I came from very little in the country Denmark that I loved, to a country that gave me tremendous opportunity, and that I came to love for its freedom to speak and to do things. Neither is perfect, and neither are we.”

For a limited time and with limited availability, Orum has pledged that proceeds from book sales will be donated to the Horticultural Research Institute, of which he was a proud supporter. Between now and March 31, for the first 100 orders, you can support HRI while taking in the story of Peter’s remarkable life journey from Denmark to the U.S., from the army to the board room, and from being a mentee to being a mentor — and a friend to many.

Click here to learn more about the book, and to place your order.