Syngenta Flowers Inc. broke ground today on three new
”
state-of-the-art
”
greenhouse facilities – an $8.25 million investment in flower
breeding research and development. Full story
GILROY – Syngenta Flowers Inc. broke ground today on three new “state-of-the-art” greenhouse facilities – an $8.25 million investment in flower breeding research and development.
The new Center of Excellence at Syngenta on Hecker Pass Highway in Gilroy will provide the global company with “new capabilities to harness the power of its deep knowledge and expertise in plant protection, media and genetics to develop new solutions for customers in the ornamental horticulture industry,” according to a press release.
Syngenta’s investment in the Gilroy campus is indicative of its long-standing commitment to the community, according to the press release.
Syngenta, formerly Goldsmith Seeds, Inc., is one of the largest breeders of hybrid flower varieties in the world, the company said in a press release.
“We’re proud to be in Gilroy, and we’re excited about the new R&D Center of Excellence facilities,” said Keelan Pulliam, president of Syngenta Flowers Inc. in North America. “We’re looking forward to a long and fruitful future here.”
Most of the $8.25 million is slated for replacing existing greenhouse structures with three state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities. Additionally, hoop houses and a pot-filling operation will be constructed.
The greenhouses, which are expected to be completed by the fall of 2012, will house breeding programs for Pansy, Viola, Geranium, Chrysanthemums and other flower crops. A third research and development greenhouse structure will provide environmental testing capabilities furthering the study of individual plant performance.
In August, Syngenta hosted approximately 20 judges from all over North America to help pick 2011 All-America Selections, referred to by several officials as the “Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval” of the flower and plant world.
Read a past story about Syngenta hosting a segment of an international flower breeding contest.
