Research & Development Trial Manager
Burpee Seed Company was founded in 1876 and within 25 years became the largest, most progressive seed company in America mailing over a million catalogues a year to America’s gardeners. Burpee, today, it is the oldest American seed company and synonymous with vegetable gardening (and Beefstake tomatoes).
• Responsibilities included managing the research trials department with six full-time, and 20 seasonal employees in three trial sites.
• Maintaining 10 acres of trial fields included; installation, irrigation, fertilization, weed control, harvesting, signage, and evaluation according to research standards.
• Created database for department evaluation of 1,200 varieties of perennials, annuals, and vegetables for future production.
• In addition, installed and maintained one acre formal perennial garden, a 300’ catalog garden, and a one-acre vegetable garden for demonstration.
• Collaborated with Herronswood Nursery on eight-acre landscape plan for the Fordhook Farm Bed & Breakfast.
• Prepared locations for filming of TV series. Handled all press interviews, garden events and tours associated with Burpee gardens. Coordinated photography of plant material for Burpee website, seed packages, and catalog.