Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Daigre.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
After a 180-degree career shift in the mid-1990s, I produced and helped build this heirloom seedling sale while working as a nursery professional at a trendsetting nursery in Pasadena. In just a few short years, Tomatomania had become a phenomenon. After moving the sale into a larger arena as a pop up event, I bought the company in 2005. By that time, we had five sales in five different California cities and to date, we have held events in 5 states and 25 cities.
Today Tomatomania is the world’s largest tomato seedling sale and operates up to 15 events across California in the springtime, sending 50,000 seedlings home with eager gardeners. Social media and a devoted following since the early 90s have combined to enlarge our tomato family and spread the ‘Mania everywhere.
When not producing this event, I design gardens of all kinds for clients across SoCal.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
We are a seasonal sale. That in itself is a difficult obstacle because you only get a window of 7-8 weeks to correct problems, try out new ideas and expand your scope. Then you have to wait almost a year to try it again!
Fighting typical problems in a winter greenhouse can be a struggle. Disease, weather and even critters have gotten in the way of successful seedling growth.
I’ve self-financed every stage of growth since I bought this company 15 years ago.
Tomatomania! – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
We highlight and sell unique and rare heirloom tomatoes plus all the classic varieties that people want for the summer garden. Our largest sale might have 275 varieties available for purchase. We also feature soils, containers, fertilizers and everything else a grower might need to be successful.
I have a team of friendly and experienced gardeners who actually take the time to talk to clients, educating them and inspiring them. Some have been with me for all 20 years. This is a unique experience for most nursery shoppers.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Have fun while making a profit, which can be difficult in a nursery business that’s also seasonal and a pop-up.
We are successful if our customers have a successful summer season.
Pricing:
- We sell at premium prices, as no one offers the variety and quality we do. We sell a $6 4 inch plant.
Contact Info:
- Website: Tomatomania.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @tomatomania
- Facebook: Tomatomania
Image Credit:
Tomatomania!
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