Emily Lloyd Exemplifies The Art and Science of Growing
Growing flowers and other ornamentals is a combination of both an art and science
Just ask Emily Lloyd, who received her master’s degree in Tropical Plant and Soil Sciences from the University of Hawaii-Manoa in 2007 and is now working on a doctorate degree focusing on ornamental production.
Emily says it’s the intersection of aesthetics and science in ornamental production that made it an attractive academic and career choice.
“It’s fun to grow beautiful plants and flowers and see the entire process through from start to finish,” said Emily, who moved to Hawaii after receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of South Carolina, “But we always have to be concerned about insects and diseases. It’s important to keep up with current practices and trends in pest management, which are constantly changing.”
Hawaii is often plagued by dreaded invasive species that threaten food production. In the ornamental world, one way of dealing with invasive species that attacks a certain species of plant is to simply stop growing it.
“We sometimes have the luxury to stop growing a plant that is being subjected to pests,” Emily noted. She cited an example of impatiens, which is used as bedding to add color in residential or commercial landscaping, that was no longer grown as a way to avoid disease problems. This was a case In which there were other products that could substitute and fill in the gaps. However, for important, irreplaceable plants such as poinsettias, disease and insect problems abound and must be dealt with as they come.”
Emily originally wanted to be a veterinarian, but said it was “emotionally painful” for her to work with sick animals. After college, she spent several years working for a global consulting firm while trying to decide on a career path. It was during that time she discovered her love for growing plants. She had finally found a passion that could translate into a career and decided to pursue horticulture.
Majoring in horticulture also appeals to her practical side and her work is professionally rewarding. “We develop useful skills that create tangible products that people value,” Emily said.
To supplement what she learns in school, Emily has gained insights into the business side of ornamental production. She has worked at Pang’s Nursery in Kaneohe for the past seven years and continues working there on a part-time basis. You can find her there every Thursday working on various stages of production of potted plants for customers.
Emily noted that one of the misconceptions about potted plants is that many assume they are imported from the U.S. mainland, but she is quick to point out that most of the plants sold in garden centers, even those at the big box stores, are from local nurseries.
So you can feel good about “buying local” on your next purchase of a potted plant from a retail store or nursery. And it’s possible that your potted plant might have been grown by Emily herself!
Words of Advice for High School Students:
“High school students should seek mentors who care about their advancement. Professors who have your best interests in mind can be instrumental in your academic and career success.” – Emily Lloyd
