As well as being the UK's largest producer of Phalaenopsis orchids and a major supplier of potted chrysanthemums, it has pioneered UK growing of large-headed pot roses. Currently Double H grows just over 60 per cent of the pot roses it sells and this year intends to reduce imported roses to zero for its year-round products, using them only for times of peak demand.
With research showing customers are more drawn to the look of the plant itself, Double H Nurseries has developed new packaging to reduce costs as far as possible without diminishing the value of the product, while also researching the best-performing varieties.
By optimising feed and growing conditions the company has reduced losses of roses alone by six per cent in a year. Labour time and costs have also been cut through the introduction of new automotive growing processes such as pinching, transportation and watering.
Staff are encouraged to put forward new ways to increase production efficiency and the company is working towards a target of zero waste to landfill.
Sustainability extends to heating systems powered by recycled material that produce enough heating to not only maintain its greenhouses but also to sell on to neighbouring facilities.
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