Grading System

To ensure you receive the best containerized seedlings, F.B. Whitfield Farms & Nursery grades each plug on our Triple Tier Grading System. Our goal is to provide the best quality seedlings so each customer yields a greater stand. 

F.B. Whitfield Farms and Nursery's Triple Tier Grading System begins with harvesting the seedlings. We hand pull and examine each plug, looking for superior root growth, optimized root collar diameter, root color, Mycorrhizae, firmness, moisture, and evidence of any pests.

The second phase of our grading system is conveyor inspections. While the plugs roll in from harvest, our staff again examines each plug for superior root growth, optimized root collar diameter, color, Mycorrhizae, firmness, moisture, and pests. Any plug not meeting our standards of excellence is removed from the conveyor belt.

Triple Tier Grading System's third step occurs as the seedlings come off the conveyor. Our expert staff pulls the best quality plugs, counting each seedling and placing the desired number of seedlings per box. Then staff is paid by the hour - Our staff does not rush through the order for incentive eliminating any issues that may arrise with volume incentive programs.

F.B. Whitfield Farms & Nursery's staff handles each seedling at least three times during the Triple Tier Grading System to ensure only the best plugs are delivered to our customers.

These three steps safe guard your investment by ensuring quality and quantity in each order.