Wednesday, June 11, 2025
Overcoming the Nursery Industry Labor Shortage: A Survey of Strategies to Adapt to a Reduced Workforce and Automation and Mechanization Technology Adoption Levels
Dr. Anthony LeBude
Time and Session Location
9:45 AM-10:45 AM
Peachtree A/B
CEUs Available (Pending Approval)
GCLP
Cost:
What You Will Learn:
The nursery industry is facing a growing workforce shortage, pushing businesses to rethink how they operate. A recent survey of U.S. nursery decision-makers revealed key strategies being used to navigate labor scarcity, from boosting wages and adopting automation to restructuring tasks and adjusting production choices. Compared to data from 15 years ago, automation in container nurseries has nearly doubled, with field nurseries also increasing mechanization. This session will dive into the latest trends in workforce management, explore the impact of automation, and discuss the future of labor in the nursery industry. Don’t miss this data-driven look at how nurseries are adapting to ensure long-term success!
More About the Presenter (s):
Anthony LeBude is an Associate Professor and Nursery Extension Specialist with North Carolina State University with areas of expertise to develop publications, training materials and in-service training programs to aid county extension agents in their efforts to assist North Carolina growers; develop new technologies for growers to understand and implement effective best management practices to optimize ecosystem services; and evaluate new plant introductions and cultivars for adaptation to the southeast US.