Autumn is a crucial season for Bulgarian nursery Nanovski Nursery, and despite facing inflationary challenges, the company is witnessing a surge in demand. However, this has not deterred them from investing in cutting-edge machinery and techniques. Recently, they acquired a weed control machine and are in the process of implementing artificial lighting. In this report, we delve into the technology-driven nursery’s operations, the market dynamics, the hurdles they face, and their future endeavors.
Cultivating a Diverse Range of Annuals and Perennials
Nanovski Nursery operates on nearly 2 hectares of land, comprising a 1.5-hectare heated greenhouse for growing dianthus, cyclamen, primula, and bellis, alongside a 0.425-hectare outdoor area dedicated to conifers, viola, clematis, and decorative grasses. The nursery sources its seedlings from international suppliers, including companies from the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, and even New Zealand. To stay abreast of industry trends, they continuously introduce new varieties. Their products predominantly find their way to domestic non-food retail chains and municipal projects aimed at urban greening. Furthermore, they export bare root trees to Romania, all sold under the Nanovsky brand.
Commitment to Technological Advancements and Environmental Responsibility
Since its inception, Nanovski Nursery has been committed to incorporating cutting-edge techniques and machinery into its operations, driven not only by a desire to enhance quality and efficiency but also by a strong eco-oriented ethos. Notably, their heating system is eco-friendly, eschewing fossil fuels in favor of pallets made from shelled (peeled) sunflower seeds. Their irrigation system prioritizes water conservation, and they’ve implemented a rainwater harvesting system. A processing line with a daily capacity of 50-60,000 seedlings ensures efficiency while adhering to environmental sustainability. Notably, the nursery also takes proactive steps in recycling plastic waste.
Investments in Sustainability
Nanovski Nursery’s recent investment in a weed control machine represents a noteworthy shift towards environmentally friendly practices. This alternative control technique significantly reduces the dependence on pesticides, making the nursery more ecologically responsible. Additionally, they are in the process of implementing artificial lighting systems. These systems are poised to enhance the quality of their products during the winter months by ensuring sufficient light levels.
Challenges Amidst Growing Demand
Despite the increasing demand for their products, the nursery faces the challenge of inflation, which has become a pervasive issue across Europe. Rising prices and increased production costs due to inflation have made it imperative for Nanovski Nursery to strive for cost efficiency and maintain competitive pricing. They prioritize being a reliable and sustainable partner, even if it means thinner profit margins in the short term. Fortunately, the growing demand for their products provides optimism in navigating these challenges.
Another noteworthy challenge is the lack of support from European subsidies or the state budget. While the nursery acknowledges that their production isn’t food-related, they emphasize the vital role of flowers and plants in ecosystems, particularly in supporting pollinators. They feel that they are overlooked by the Common Agricultural Policy, which is geared towards improving biodiversity and eco-schemes.
Future Expansion and Growth
Looking ahead, Nanovski Nursery has ambitious plans on the horizon. Alongside their investment in artificial lighting, they are gearing up for expansion. Their immediate focus is on expanding the area dedicated to growing bare root trees or root balling trees, ensuring they continue to meet growing demand and adhere to their commitment to technological innovation and environmental responsibility.