Presenting Greenhouse Grower’s 2025 Operation of the Year Finalists
July 8, 2025 
Color Orchids, Nocona, TX
Color Orchids has become one of the nation’s largest growers of phaleanopsis orchids, with three locations across the U.S. The company focuses on lean, consistent, and identical production across its three locations, with an ambitious team eager to grow together. Color Orchids owner Ben Van Wingerden says flexibility has been the key to the company’s success, whether that means smart investments in automation, or long-term profitability strategies.
Hampshire Farms, Hampshire, IL
Hampshire Farms, which grows perennials and houseplants for the Midwest, is a people-first company that emphasizes professional growth and development. The company practices open-book management and meets frequently to evaluate financial performance and identify areas for improvement. The ownership team is committed to investing the profits of the company back into the business. The goal is a balanced approach between replacing aging infrastructure and investing in complementary new technologies which allow it to grow production and revenue at a faster pace.
Michael’s Greenhouses, Cheshire, CT
One of the hallmarks of Michael’s Greenhouses is its willingness to try new things, from technology to varieties. In the last few years alone, Michael’s has invested in everything from floor heat to precision irrigation technology to AI-based insect monitoring. Michael’s focuses on keeping people for the long term, which helps build a stronger team/family environment. Working together, the production and shipping teams will cross-train so that they can support each other during their busy season.
Greenhouse Grower’s Medal of Excellence awards will be presented at Cultivate’25 during the Evening of Excellence event on Monday, July 14.
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