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The Dwyers are growing their business

Glenwood Springs, CO Colorado

How did your business start? Lynn studied botany and wildlife in graduate school and worked as a wildlife biologist for about 20 years. Gardening was a hobby and passion. In 1998 Lynn followed her dream and built the first greenhouse to grow certified organic produce. Unfortunately, California organic producers entered the market about the same time. The business evolved into growing bedding plants, perennials and herbs and vegetables. The landscape division was added in 2001. Throughout the evolution of the business, the commitment to organic growing, conservation and high quality have remained. What do you sell? Premium annuals (Proven Winners, Blooms of Bressingham), perennials (both native and non-native), herbs and vegetable starts, exquisite hanging baskets, windowboxes and container gardens.What positive lessons did you learn during the recession? The best advice we received was to stop spending money, pay down our debt and refinance our home. We did all three and maintained the high quality of our products and service. We entered the recession debt-free. The business is a very lean operation with only a part-time bookkeeper as office staff. Providing superlative customer service and maintaining our commitment to the community and environment have served us well. Lynn joined Rotary in 2010 and serves on the board of directors for the South Side Conservation Service and Holy Cross Electric Association. We have also continued membership in the Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau and Colorado Greenhouse Grower and Nursery Association. What strategy do you use to hire good people?With a seasonal business, this has proven to be very challenging. We offer vacation pay, bonuses, incentives and a fun, safe work environment. What is your strategy for growth in the next year? We just uploaded a new website March 1. We will continue to improve our operation. In 2010 we installed Energy Curtains (with help from CLEER) to conserve electricity, water and propane. We will continue to recycle pots and flats, cardboard, etc. Our landscaping division will be focusing on home makeovers, the new Wastewater Treatment Plant landscaping for the city of Glenwood Springs and gardens from Aspen to Avon.What is the best thing about running a business here?We have met the nicest people in the world. Our area seems to draw people from all over who are enthusiastic about the environment and eager to improve their quality of life. Gardening is often a part of this.


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