Some partnerships start with a contract. Others start with a shared belief.
Ours with Wagner Greenhouses began long before our first production order in January 2020. In fact, it traces back to 2015, when we were still experimenting, learning, and searching for someone willing to take a chance on a new idea: a plant-based garden pot.
A: Early testing had to be sure the bio-materials worked in Wagners automation planting cells.
At the time, the industry faced a quiet but significant problem. Traditional petroleum-based pots weren’t being recycled. Between material limitations, contamination, and mislabeling, most ended up in landfills. We believed there had to be a better way. Wagner Greenhouses believed that too.
They were the only local grower willing to experiment alongside us. Their R&D team tested countless materials, showing a level of patience that matched our ambition to make a difference in an industry we were just beginning to understand.
Those early trials weren’t always easy, but they were essential.
What started as a plantable pot that could be industrially composted has evolved into something far more robust. Today’s version offers improved durability, minimal fading, reduced swelling from moisture, and a more polished appearance. These are qualities that matter not just in production, but at the retail level.
B. First attempt to ship bulk containers from Stillwater to Minneapolis. 30 miles of failure.
Looking back, it’s remarkable to see how far we’ve come together.
There were moments of trial and error, like the time we attempted bulk packaging for the first time. We proudly shipped two pallets, eager for feedback. When the call came in, along with photos, our excitement quickly turned to disbelief. My only response was, “I can’t believe we let Mario Andretti drive that truck.” Needless to say, it was back to the drawing board.
Today, we’ve refined that process to the point where we can ship up to 9,000 pots per pallet.
And the impact?
Since those early days with Wagners, we’ve now placed over 14 million plant-based pots into the market, replacing more than 2 million pounds of traditional petroleum-based materials
That’s real change.
Many talk about making a difference. Few actually begin. As Seneca once said, “All fools are getting ready to start.”
We’re proud that we didn’t wait.
To Wagner Greenhouses, thank you for believing early, experimenting boldly, and growing with us. And to all of our partners around the world, we are proud to stand with you in driving sustainability forward.
This is what progress looks like.
C. Full production of annuals and edibles in plant-based SelfEco garden pots. Made in White Bear Lake, MN.