Polk County Extension
Commercial Ornamental
Plant Production

Laura Miller - Multi-County Ornamental Plant Production

Brief Description of the Program

The Ornamental Plant Production program is dedicated to improving the commercial nursery, greenhouse and sod production industries in Hillsborough and Polk counties through the adoption of Best Management Practices, the utilization of integrated pest management, the development of a stable, educated workforce, and access to research-based problem solving resources.

The Extension agent serves as an advisor to trade organizations, especially the Tampa Bay and Lake Region Chapters of the Florida Nursery, Growers, and Landscape Association and the Tampa Bay Wholesale Growers.

Educational Background

• 1982-1985 - B.S. Horticulture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
• 1986-1987 - M.Ed. Agricultural Education, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Experience

• 2002-Present
  Multi-County Extension Agent
  Commercial Ornamental Horticulture
  University of Florida/Hillsborough and Polk Counties Cooperative Extension Service
• 2001-2002
  Program Assistant
  Commercial Ornamental Horticulture
  Hillsborough County
  Cooperative Extension Service
• 2000-2001
  Manager
  Membership and Education
  The Valley Land Fund
  McAllen, TX
• 1998-2000
  Administrative Assistant
  Nolana Animal Hospital
  McAllen, TX
• 1996-1998
  Restoration Initiative Nursery Manager
  The Nature Conservancy
  McAllen, TX
• 1992-1996
  Spanish Teacher
  Amarillo High School
  Amarillo, TX