Today we’d like to introduce you to Jolea Gress.
Hi Jolea, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I got my start working with plants in college, first with Linder’s Greenhouses and then with a small farm and greenhouse operation. It was during that time that I was introduced to organic farming and the importance of being good stewards of the land—principles that have stayed with me ever since.
Farming also runs in my roots. Both of my parents come from farming families, so while I didn’t start my own operation until later, that connection to agriculture has always been there.
In 2004, I started Green Earth Growers. What began as a passion has turned into a long (and sometimes wild) adventure of learning how to run and grow a business. Along the way, we’ve experienced plenty of challenges and successes, each one teaching us something new.
Today, we’re focused on maintaining our current size, working toward a better work-life balance, and continuing to adapt to all the curveballs that farming inevitably throws our way.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but that’s part of what farming teaches you. Over the past 20+ years, we’ve had our share of challenges. Growing plants and farming keep you on your toes, and no matter how much you plan, Mother Nature often has the final say.
Like many in agriculture, we’ve worked through unpredictable weather, crop successes and failures, and the ongoing balance of running a business while caring for the land.
One of the more significant changes came in 2024, when the business partner I started the farm with stepped away from the company. While that was a big transition, it also created space for a fresh perspective. We’ve since scaled back a bit, found a new rhythm, and are in a place now that feels both sustainable and positive for the future.
As you know, we’re big fans of Green Earth Growers. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
We are a small, women-owned and operated greenhouse located just south of the Twin Cities in Prior Lake. Founded in 2004, we began with a simple mission: to provide high-quality plants, produce, and cut flowers to our local community. Over the years, our greenhouse and farmland have expanded, but our commitment to sustainability and excellence has remained the same.
At Green Earth Growers, we take pride in growing everything we offer—whether it’s fresh produce, vibrant flowers, or healthy plants. We are Certified Naturally Grown, which means we prioritize environmentally responsible practices that respect the land while providing our customers with fresh, high-quality products.
For over 20 years, we’ve supplied wholesale plants throughout the Twin Cities. We partner with small, independent garden centers, hardware stores, co-ops, and select fundraisers, offering sustainably grown, Minnesota-hardy plants that perform well in our local climate. Our wholesale selection includes a wide variety of annuals, herbs, and vegetable plants. We deeply value these partnerships and take pride in helping other small businesses and community organizations bring locally grown products to their customers.
In 2008, we expanded our reach by launching the Green Earth Growers CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. What began as a small offering serving just 20 families has grown to over 70 CSA members each year. In 2013, we introduced a flower share, bringing fresh, seasonal bouquets into our members’ homes. The relationships we’ve built through our CSA are incredibly meaningful to us, and it’s a joy to be part of our members’ lives each growing season.
During the summer months, you can also find us at the Mill City Farmers Market, where we connect directly with our community. Our bouquets are also available at co-ops throughout the Twin Cities, helping bring locally grown flowers to even more homes across the metro.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
One of the most valuable resources we’ve been part of is the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers (ASCFG). Being involved has connected us with a wider community of growers who are incredibly generous with their knowledge and experience.
We’ve also been fortunate to build relationships with a few mentors in the industry who have helped guide us along the way. Having people we can reach out to for advice or perspective when we need it has made a big difference.
In addition, we’ve had great experiences attending conferences and industry events. Those in-person opportunities to learn, ask questions, and have real conversations with other farmers have been especially impactful.
If we had one piece of advice, it would be to seek out communities where people are open to sharing and to not be afraid to start conversations. Some of the best mentorship moments come naturally through those connections rather than through formal arrangements.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.greenearthgrowers.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenearthgrowers/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greenearthgrowers
