Growing Kentucky: A Conversation with Trevor Terry of the Horticulture Council
In this engaging summer episode of Hort Culture, the crew welcomes Trevor Terry, Executive Director of the Kentucky Horticulture Council, for a spirited and insightful conversation that blends passion, policy, and plant nerdiness.
After kicking things off with lighthearted chatter about their favorite warm-weather drinks (kombucha and icy watermelon blends included), Trevor dives into his unconventional journey from humanities grad to horticulture leader — including a Derby weekend epiphany and the entrepreneurial spirit that led him to help launch Kentucky Fresh Harvest, the state’s first high-wire, high-tech tomato facility.
Trevor shares his excitement about the growth of protected agriculture in Kentucky — from 1.4 million sq. ft. in 2017 to nearly 14 million sq. ft. today — and what that means for the future of food production in the Commonwealth. The group also unpacks the impact of shifting federal funding, disease challenges like Neopestalotiopsis in strawberries, and the surprising scale and potential of Kentucky's cut flower industry.
Whether you're into tomatoes, spreadsheets, or just love a good horticulture underdog story, this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a powerful reminder of the resilience and innovation driving Kentucky agriculture forward.
Tune in to hear:
Trevor’s origin story and tomato tech breakthroughs
Why controlled environment ag isn’t just hype in Kentucky
Big data meets backyard gardening
The power of unified voices in horticulture advocacy
Episode-Related Links:
Kentucky Horticulture Council (KHC)
Learn more about KHC’s mission, grower resources, grants, trainings, and member associations.
USDA Census of Agriculture
Data source discussed regarding growth in protected ag and cut flowers.
University of Kentucky Horticulture Extension
Trusted info on fruit, vegetable, and ornamental production in Kentucky.
Kentucky Department of Agriculture
Programs and support for growers, including Kentucky Proud.
Kentucky Center for Ag & Rural Development (KCARD)
Business development assistance for Kentucky farms and agribusinesses.
Questions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: hortculturepodcast@gmail.com
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