From Humble Roots to Nationwide Reach: The Story of Shaw Lake Farms
Nestled in the heart of Florida's foliage belt, Shaw Lake Farms has flourished for over thirty years. Established in 1991 by Mike Nolan, the farm embodies the values of hard work, family dedication, and a deep passion for plants. Starting with just a box truck and a dream, Shaw Lake Farms now ships premium foliage across the nation.
Holex USA is proud to have a strong partnership with Shaw Lake Farms, and our recent visit provided valuable insights into their extensive operations and the inner workings of the company.
What types of greenery are cultivated at Shaw Lake Farms, and how extensive is the operation?
At Shaw Lake Farms, we grow a diverse range of greens, including Leather Leaf, Variegated Pitt, Springeri, Tree Fern, Plumosa, Lily Grass, Monstera, Xanadu, Olive, Deflexus, and Green Ivy. The farm spans 50 acres, allowing large-scale cultivation and variety.
How does Shaw Lake Farms manage seasonal demand, and what does a typical workday look like on the farm?
Seasonal shifts play a major role in our operations. Christmas and Valentine’s Day are the busiest times, with thousands of boxes shipped weekly. Summer is slower, but there's an uptick in wedding orders. On a typical day, our team handles customer orders, assembles boxes, delivers products, and crafts garlands, wreaths, and bouquets. It's a coordinated effort that keeps the farm running smoothly year-round.
Who powers Shaw Lake Farms, and how does the team navigate the rhythms of peak and off-peak seasons?
Shaw Lake Farms is a family-owned business with a small group of dedicated employees. During peak seasons, the fast-paced environment can be intense, but our team pulls together to meet demand and deliver quality. In the off-peak season, we focus on maintenance, improvement projects, and preparing for the next wave of demand.
How does Shaw Lake Farms approach cultivation, and what sets it apart from international and domestic competitors?
We cultivate all our greens outdoors, harnessing natural sunlight for robust growth. This open-air approach ensures better air circulation and soil health. Our competitive edge lies in the meticulous care we invest in every step of the process. We also benefit from a research partnership with the University of Florida, to stay at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
Why did Shaw Lake Farms choose foliage cultivation, and what is the scale of its production?
Our decision to cultivate foliage is rooted in geography and tradition. Located in Pierson, Florida, the "Fern Capital of the World", we benefit from the regions' ideal climate and soil. During peak seasons, we ship thousands of boxes of fresh foliage each week and produce miles of handcrafted garlands, maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
What development plans do you have for the future?
We are excited about the future of Shaw Lake Farms. With support from the University of Florida and state programs, we are developing new crops and we're advancing our farming techniques to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
How does Shaw Lake Farms prioritize sustainability and responsible farming practices?
Sustainability is woven into every aspect of our operations. We use science-based approaches for cultivation, including annual soil testing, efficient water management, and targeted pest control. Our goal is to minimize environmental impact while maintaining healthy foliage.
How does Shaw Lake Farms distribute its products, and what care is recommended for maintaining their quality?
We ensure our high-quality foliage reaches customers efficiently through various online platforms and partnerships with wholesalers, like Holex USA. To maintain freshness, we recommend gently fluffing the foliage upon unboxing, misting it with water every three days, and storing it in a cool, sheltered location.
What makes the partnership between Shaw Lake Farms and Holex USA successful?
Our collaboration with Holex USA is built on mutual respect and shared values. Open communication allows us to navigate challenges together, fostering a productive and inspiring partnership. Holex USA’s commitment to quality and customer service aligns seamlessly with our standards, making the alliance successful and promising for future growth.
Greens from Shaw Lake Farms in the Holex webshop
At Holex, we’re proud to work with trusted partners like Shaw Lake Farms, who bring expertise, consistency, and top-quality foliage to our assortment. In our webshop, you’ll find a wide selection of fresh greens from Shaw Lake Farms. Simply go to the 'Greens' category and select the Miami location to view the available products.
