How we started growing and importing plants
I first started growing plants at a flea market. I came across Agave titanota and Tillandsia bulbosa.
I still vividly remember being captivated by the strange appearance of the grass. I bought the plants without hesitation, took them home, I decided to try growing it for a while.
For me, facing plants and nurturing them properly means It was my first time. So, of course, I didn't know how to grow them, so I looked on the internet. While researching how to grow plants, including agave and tillandsia, I learned that some of the various plants came to Japan through imports. The more I researched it, the more I fell in love with agave. And I want to meet more varieties of agave. With this in mind, I decided to start importing products myself.
At first, I was just trying to access overseas farmer's homepages. I sent an email but received no reply. I sent dozens of emails but received no replies, and was about to give up
There was 1 reply. A French farmer.
I was very happy and immediately started communicating via email.
I remember seeing little parasanas and little potatorums. For a while, I only imported what I enjoyed. Gradually, friends around me showed interest and asked if they could give it to me. I started receiving it. Then gradually We have continued to increase our connections with farmers in various countries.
This is how I started importing plants.
Our strength lies mainly in California. Because we import directly from multiple farmers in multiple countries, Whether retail or wholesale, we ask our customers what products they are looking for, This means that we can purchase products that are as close to each other as possible.
Thanks to everyone from beginners to advanced users, We are patronized by customers of a wide range of generations.
I want to express the natural beauty of agave through cultivation.
Willing Plant" Mainly sold through online shops, We also hold pop-up events jointly with other stores. We also offer opportunities for you to see our agave plants in person.
The physical store also operates on a reservation basis, albeit irregularly. At the store, you can feel the worldview of Willing Plant, Newly arrived plants and rare plants not listed online are also available. You can view it (depending on timing).
I believe that plants have a will. What I especially keep in mind is to look at the condition of each stock, We raise seedlings while considering cultivation and management methods that are suitable for each species.
At Willing Plant, we mainly deal with agave, so Agave is the main ingredient.
Children that are not yet strong enough or bare root stocks that have just been imported, We pamper and manage them so that they grow up healthy. Specifically, changes in soil, humidity maintenance, temperature, etc. Even among plants of the same species, individual varieties and strains vary. Set to change the environment.
For medium and large plants with substantial roots, we use them as a base. While checking the condition of the blended soil we are using, The contents are fine-tuned when replanting.
Of course, wind is also an important factor.
Depending on the variety, the leaves may not open if exposed to too much wind. It may get damaged. Therefore, a circulator etc. When using, use a comfortable amount of air rather than direct wind. Try to prevent the wind from blowing on you all the time. Just like us humans, plants seem to like a pleasant breeze.
Our goal in raising children is to raise them to be healthy and beautiful. The natural beauty of agave can be expressed through cultivation. We continue our research every day.
Things to keep in mind when using a growing light
Cultivation lights may cause pain mainly due to external factors. For supplementary lighting when attacking agave plants, Used for in-store display. In the store display, the agave plants are beautifully illuminated.
Also, in outdoor environments, due to factors such as temperature and humidity, There are times when it is difficult to fine-tune stock conditions. For fine adjustment of plants at the finishing stage of growth. Sometimes used.
This also applies to sunlight, but depending on the variety and strain of the plant, Depending on the size and conditions, you can also use a growing light. Leaf burn and stress may occur, so Adjust the irradiation distance or remove the reflector. We take care to use soft light and irradiate the light.
Sunlight and grow lights are used on a case-by-case basis.
For example, in outdoor environments such as during the rainy season or winter, the condition may deteriorate. For plants that are about to die, switch to indoor cultivation light management. Compared to sunlight, it has the advantage of being able to be used without worrying about the season or weather. It's very helpful because it can be used flexibly.
On the other hand, outdoors, the sun shines brightly and brightly. The advantage is that you can see the plants. It also gives the leaves a shine. The growth speed in spring and autumn is faster than that of the grow light.
Also, to avoid short circuits and electric shocks, water should be kept in the grow light. I am careful not to get it. You should also check your monthly electricity bill.
Through growth, plants give us a sense of strength and vitality.
The use of growing lights and sunlight depends on the season and plant type. This is determined based on the condition etc.
In the case of child plants, if humidity cannot be maintained outdoors or In the winter, when the stock has little strength and is susceptible to damage, grow it indoors under a light. The same goes for medium stocks. When large stocks are finished growing, Sometimes it is used for adjustment.
For growing lights, especially [AMATERAS-20W] I like the beautiful shine of the ultra-high color rendering Ra97. It also provides a very beautiful effect when photographing plants. As a side note, the professional photographers of our partner companies also do things like This light illuminates plants beautifully. I heard it was highly praised.
Plants are silent creatures, but through growth, It gives you a strong sense of strength and vitality. And every morning I call out to her and pet her gently. Also, when you are working in the office, you can look at it and feel refreshed. Observe carefully and check the condition, They are like an important family member.
Finally, I would like to try growing plants. What I would like to tell you is that through plants, Add more comfort and moisture to your life! about it.
Let's enjoy a life with plants together!! ︎
