While snow covers the ground and temperatures drop below zero, the growing season quietly begins inside the greenhouses of Lander, Wyoming. Sprout’s Greenhouse shows how early planting, smart adaptation to climate, and community engagement can drive success even in the most challenging agricultural environments.
In the heart of Wyoming’s rugged winter, when temperatures dip well below zero and heavy snow blankets the land, Sprout’s Greenhouse is already alive with the first signs of spring. Beginning their seeding as early as January 1st, Griff Sprout and his team carefully manage an operation that expands from one greenhouse to 15 fully utilized greenhouses by March. Their mission: to create a “magical” space for locals starved for greenery after long, harsh winters.
Adapting to a Harsh Climate:
Operating in Wyoming’s extreme conditions requires a deep understanding of cold-weather horticulture. According to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, much of Wyoming falls into Zones 3 to 5, where winter temperatures can reach as low as -40°F (-40°C). Growing plants in these zones demands careful planning, cold-hardy varieties, and greenhouse structures capable of withstanding snow loads and maintaining consistent internal climates.
Sprout’s Greenhouse rises to this challenge with nearly 2,000 plant varieties grown specifically for the unique demands of the Cowboy State. Their selections include cold-tolerant annuals, hardy vegetables, and perennials bred for short growing seasons and rapid establishment. This aligns with recent findings from the American Society for Horticultural Science, which emphasize the importance of selecting region-specific plant genetics to improve greenhouse success rates in colder climates.
Scaling Up Smartly:
The business, now nearly 50 years old, started from humble beginnings with little formal training — a testament to perseverance and adaptive learning. Over time, the operation has grown to become the largest greenhouse business in Fremont County. In the United States, the greenhouse industry overall continues to grow steadily, with a market value projected to surpass $50 billion by 2030, according to Grand View Research. Operators like Sprout’s are key contributors, showing how regional adaptation and strategic scaling are crucial in achieving long-term success.
A Family Legacy Rooted in Growth:
With a fitting surname, Sprout’s Greenhouse has turned a family passion into a thriving business that not only survives but thrives against environmental odds. Their early planting strategy, beginning when others are still deep in winter, allows them to deliver healthy, mature plants just when Wyoming’s residents are ready to embrace the short growing season.
Sprout’s Greenhouse is a powerful example of how resilience, early strategic planting, and climate-specific adaptation can enable farmers and growers to succeed even in the most extreme conditions. For farmers and greenhouse operators looking to expand in colder regions, the lessons from Sprout’s decades-long journey offer a blueprint for cultivating success — no matter how deep the snow lies outside.
