Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Perennial Plant Supplier for Big-Box Retailers
Sawyer Nursery has been cultivating high-quality perennial plants for over 65 years, establishing itself as a trusted leader in the horticulture industry. Founded in 1956 by Bob and Shirley Sawyer as a family venture, the company expanded from local markets to become the exclusive supplier of perennials to major big-box retailers like Walmart and Meijer across the Midwest. With two strategically located facilities in Michigan and Alabama, we grow over 450 varieties of perennials in containers ranging from one quart to three gallons, ensuring diverse offerings and timely availability. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our patented custom replenishment system, which tailors orders to each store's sales data and inventory levels, resulting in exceptional sell-through rates. We pride ourselves on combining advanced growing techniques with sustainable practices, including precision irrigation, environmental controls, and rigorous quality assurance protocols.Our team of experienced horticulturists and dedicated staff ensures every plant meets exacting standards before reaching retail shelves. As an industry innovator, we continuously invest in research and development to introduce new varieties that align with consumer preferences and market trends. With 300 acres of operational land, 420,000 square feet of heated greenhouses, and a workforce that expands to 200 seasonal employees during peak seasons, we maintain the capacity to fulfill large-scale orders while upholding personalized service. Our partnerships with major retailers are built on decades of reliability, transparency, and mutual growth, making us a preferred supplier in the Midwest region. Whether through our advanced propagation methods, comprehensive cultural programs, or commitment to employee development, Sawyer Nursery remains focused on delivering excellence at every stage of the supply chain.
Services
Perennial Plant Production
Wholesale Supply
Custom Replenishment
In-Store Merchandising
Quality Control
Details
- Year established: 1956
Highlights and features
- We offer 65 years of specialized expertise in perennial plant cultivation.
- Our exclusive partnerships with major Midwest retailers ensure reliable distribution.
- Custom replenishment system optimizes inventory for each store's needs.
- Two regional facilities provide diverse growing conditions and scalability.
- High sell-through rates demonstrate proven retail success with our products.
Services
Perennial Plant Production
Sawyer Nursery grows over 450 perennial plant varieties using advanced propagation methods and sustainable practices. Our Michigan and Alabama facilities enable year-round production with diverse growing conditions. Each plant undergoes strict quality checks before distribution to ensure optimal retail performance.
Wholesale Supply
We serve as the exclusive perennial supplier to major Midwest big-box retailers. Our logistics network efficiently delivers 6 million plants annually to 900 stores. Custom packaging and timing ensure plants arrive in peak condition for retail display.
Custom Replenishment
Our proprietary system analyzes sales data and inventory levels to create store-specific replenishment orders. This approach minimizes waste while maintaining optimal stock levels, resulting in high sell-through rates for retailers.
In-Store Merchandising
We provide merchandising solutions that enhance product presentation and customer engagement. Our programs include display design, seasonal transitions, and point-of-sale materials to maximize retail success.
Quality Control
Our quality assurance program includes environmental monitoring, pest management, and growth regulation. Advanced irrigation systems, temperature controls, and regular inspections ensure consistent product excellence across all 300 acres of production space.
People
Tom Kowieski
Owner / CEO
Tom Kowieski has led Sawyer Nursery since acquiring it in 2014. With decades of horticulture experience, he focuses on maintaining quality standards while expanding the company's market reach through strategic partnerships and innovation.
Hank Bock
Major Accounts Manager
Hank Bock manages key retail relationships with major big-box clients. His expertise in account management and understanding of market demands help maintain Sawyer Nursery's exclusive partnerships and ensure customer satisfaction.
Josh Flikkema
Operations Manager
Josh Flikkema oversees daily operations across both Michigan and Alabama facilities. He ensures efficient production processes while maintaining quality standards through staff training and implementation of advanced growing technologies.
Tom Gerber
CFO
Tom Gerber manages financial operations, focusing on sustainable growth and cost-effective production. His financial expertise helps maintain competitive pricing while ensuring quality standards across all nursery operations.
Jos Mendez
Director of Human Resources
Jos Mendez leads workforce development for up to 200 seasonal employees. He fosters a positive work environment through training programs and initiatives that promote employee retention and professional growth.
Questions
What types of plants does Sawyer Nursery grow?
We specialize in over 450 varieties of perennial plants grown in containers ranging from one quart to three gallons.
Which retailers carry Sawyer Nursery products?
Our products are sold exclusively through major big-box retailers including Walmart, Meijer, Rural King, and Family Farm & Home in the Midwest.
How does Sawyer Nursery ensure product quality?
We maintain quality through rigorous inspection protocols, advanced growing techniques, and environmental controls across our 300-acre operations.
Do you offer custom plant solutions for retailers?
Yes, our patented replenishment system creates store-specific orders based on sales data and inventory levels.
Where are Sawyer Nursery's growing facilities located?
We operate two facilities: our headquarters in Hudsonville, Michigan, and a production site in Leesburg, Alabama.
How many plants does Sawyer Nursery produce annually?
We ship approximately 6 million perennial plants annually to nearly 900 retail locations across the Midwest.
