Garden Group announces sixth annual Women in Horticulture Week

Garden Media Group announced the sixth annual Women in Horticulture Week: May 25-31, 2025,

The week is dedicated to celebrating the contributions of women in horticulture, inspiring the next generation and fostering an inclusive and supportive industry.

“Women in Horticulture Week is our opportunity to recognize the incredible mentors, role models and changemakers in our field — including my mother, who paved the way for me,” said Katie Dubow, president of the women-led Garden Media Group. “As we enter the she-conomy, it’s time for the green industry to embrace this momentum, support women leaders and create more opportunities for female entrepreneurs in horticulture.”

Women-owned businesses account for nearly 40 percent of all U.S. businesses, generating $2.7 trillion in revenue annually. Research from McKinsey also shows that companies with gender-diverse executive teams are 25 percent more likely to achieve above-average profitability.

Women-owned businesses in the U.S. have grown by 114% over the past 20 years, outpacing overall business growth.

Female-founded startups receive only 2% of venture capital funding — yet they generate twice the revenue per dollar invested compared to male-founded companies.

By 2030, women are expected to control two-thirds of all U.S. wealth, shifting the economic balance and increasing investment in industries focused on sustainability and wellness — including horticulture.

“Diversity is more than gender — it includes age, socioeconomic background and ethnicity,” said Maria Carrasquillo, VP of marketing and e-commerce at Costa Farms. “Bringing different perspectives into our industry strengthens teams, fosters innovation and better reflects the diverse consumers we serve.”

How to participate in Women in Horticulture Week 2025:

• Share your story and highlight inspiring women in business to motivate others.
• Mentor or volunteer to support aspiring female horticulturists and entrepreneurs.
• Join the Women in Horticulture series hosted by AmericanHort, including the luncheon at Cultivate’25 on July 14.
• Connect with local peer groups.
• Read Denise Schreiber’s Women in Horticulture column in Nursery Management magazine, featuring industry leaders like Bridget Behe, Stephanie Cohen, Carol Reese, and Maria Zampini.
• Embrace continuous learning through motivational resources and tools.
• Support the movement on social media by updating your profile picture and using #WomenInHort to share stories and recognition.

“Women are at the forefront of shaping a greener, more sustainable future,” said Seed Your Future Executive Director Jazmin Albarran. “Through workforce development, research, community gardening and sustainability efforts, we are driving meaningful change. By recognizing and amplifying our impact, we create an environment where our contributions are valued and inspire the next generation of leaders in horticulture.”

In honor of Women's History Month, Greenhouse Management and Nursery Management hosted conversations among inspirational women who bring fresh perspectives to the industry. Click here to read the stories of the Leading Women of Horticulture.