David Nieburg will speak on the Future-proofing nursery production — maximising investment in automation on 3 September at
Sponsored by Hortec
THE PANEL:
Steve Dunn, Hortec
Daryl McWhinnie, McLarens Nurseries
David Nieburg, Country Herbs
Steve Carter, Farplants
Chaired by HortWeek editor Matthew Appleby
With rising labour costs and chronic worker shortages squeezing margins, this practical expert panel will look at fully automated processes, advances in technology and the efficiencies they can bring. Forward-thinking UK nurseries McLarens, Farplants and Country Herbs will share their experiences, while Hortec will present the latest advances and options from manufacturers including Javo and Stolze.
How did you get into the industry?
I grew up on and around some large nurseries as my father was prominent in the industry. The New Ruaton Garden Company was my playground and inspiration from around 5 years old! We then moved to Spalding when my father joined Adrian Moreman. I never seriously considered any other career, studying an HND in Commercial Hort at Writtle before commencing fulltime work.
What do you do in your day-to-day job?
No two days are the same and I probably try to take on too much! I do all the production programming, financial planning, and most of the buying. I remain committed to keeping my hand in on the nursery day to day playing a part in everything from watering and spraying to boilers, potting machines and even whitewash application!
What is the biggest issue facing the industry?
Increasing costs across the board have and continue to be the single biggest issue. Every year we must look at what’s changed and how we can best mitigate the negative impacts.
What are your plans for the future?
I firmly believe that to minimise cost increases we must continually invest to save money by gaining efficiencies where we can. We’re just completing a solar installation and continue to evaluate where we can best invest to save in other areas.
Tell us about your role at Four Oaks 2026...
I try to get to Four Oaks each year and for 2026 will be visiting with my daughter Tabi who is now very involved in the business.
