June marks California Grown Flowers Month, a time to honor and spotlight the growers who contribute to California’s status as the top state in agricultural output. Among them is Westerlay Orchids, a Carpinteria-based company renowned for its exquisite and long-lasting phalaenopsis orchids.
A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability
Westerlay Orchids has been cultivating phalaenopsis orchids for over two decades. Today, the company grows and ships over four million plants annually to retailers across the western United States and Canada. Their beautiful plants not only bring joy to people but also serve as a symbol of connection.
The company is a pioneer in minimizing environmental impact during the growing process. Westerlay has developed cutting-edge energy-efficient practices for eco-friendly cultivation and optimal water conservation. The latest sustainability initiative involves the installation of specially designed dehumidifiers, which are expected to reduce natural gas consumption by 10% to 20%.
A Family Legacy Rooted in the Netherlands
Westerlay Orchids’ commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in its family history. President Toine Overgaag’s father, Joop, grew tomatoes and chrysanthemums in the Netherlands’ greenhouses before immigrating to Carpinteria, California, in 1978. Joop built his first greenhouses by hand, using salvaged oil pipes from the local industry for the frames. Today, Toine continues his father’s legacy by incorporating advanced sustainability practices, including solar panels, energy curtains, and an irrigation recycling program. These efforts have reduced Westerlay’s carbon footprint by 43% from 2018 to 2022.
Why Orchids are a Top Choice This Month
Orchids are a popular choice during California Grown Flowers Month for several reasons:
Easy to Care For: Orchids are surprisingly hardy despite their delicate appearance. With proper care, they can live for several months to years and even rebloom multiple times. Caring for an orchid is a simple yet rewarding experience.
Orchid Care as Self-Care: Research shows that flowers can boost happiness, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Orchid blooms, with their intricate and symmetrical shapes, exude a sense of calm and tranquility, making them an ideal choice for self-care.
Orchids Foster Connection: At Westerlay Orchids, every orchid is believed to tell a story. Their long lifespans and ability to enliven any space make them a lasting reminder of the person who gifted them. Whether given from a daughter to a mother or a husband to a wife, an orchid creates a meaningful connection that endures with each bloom.
This June, as we celebrate California Grown Flowers Month, let’s appreciate the beauty and sustainability of Westerlay Orchids. Their commitment to eco-friendly practices and the joy they bring through their plants make them a standout example of what it means to be a California grower.
