Robert Taylor
Missoula
Summary
Experienced horticulturist with a strong background in team leadership and employee management. Expertise in cultivating plant species and engaging the public through educational initiatives, committed to fostering a sustainable environment.
Overview
1
1
Certification
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Horticulturist
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
09.2023 - Current
- Launched a living butterfly atrium from inception, converting an empty greenhouse atrium into a celebrated museum and tourist hotspot with thousands of visitors weekly.
- Cultivated diverse plant species to enhance ecological exhibits and butterfly habitats.
- Monitored plant health, identifying pests and diseases to maintain optimal growth conditions.
- Enhanced plant health by implementing proper pruning, watering, and fertilization techniques.
- Trained volunteers on plant care techniques.
- Operated within budget to create an enriched environment fostering learning about butterflies, moths, and their plant partners.
- Facilitated public engagement through speaking engagements and educational activities.
Grow Manager
Garden Mother Herbs
05.2018 - 09.2023
- Oversaw daily operations of a large, commercial cannabis facility, ensuring compliance with safety, legal and quality standards.
- Implemented integrated pest management strategies to enhance crop health.
- Trained and supervised junior staff in cultivation best practices and safety protocols.
- Monitored environmental conditions to optimize growth and yield consistency.
- Developed and maintained detailed records of plant growth, pest management, and nutrient applications.
- Maintained detailed records of cultivation activities and harvest weights for accurate regulation tracking and reporting purposes.
Greenhouse Worker and Orchardist
Benson's Farm
03.1999 - 05.2017
- Executed seasonal orchard maintenance, including pruning, fruit thinning, harvesting, and sales operations.
- Developed value-added sales products including hanging baskets, planters, and potted arrangements.
- Conducted regular plant maintenance, encompassing watering, propagation, pest control and pruning.
- Implemented plant trials and showcased outcomes during public speaking presentations.
- Designed, planted and sustained display gardens.
Laboratory Technician
Rithron Associates
06.2003 - 03.2005
- Prepared aquatic invertebrate samples for bioanalysis, capturing data on environmental conditions, population density, and diversity.
- Analyzed and prepared soft algae and diatom samples for taxonomic assessment.
- Gathered field samples of aquatic invertebrates.
Greenhouse Technician
United States Antarctic Program, Raytheon Polar Services
08.2000 - 10.2003
- Oversaw and sustained an experimental hydroponic greenhouse emphasizing vegetable/herb crop production.
- Performed troubleshooting checks and repairs on a prototype "Growth Chamber" located at the South Pole Station as part of the Mars Project.
- Analyzed data on plant growth metrics to refine cultivation strategies and improve yields.
- Optimized hydroponic techniques for various plant species, ensuring proper hydration, nutrition and growth.
Education
Bachelor's of Fine Arts - Art And Design
University of Kansas
Lawrence, KS1991
Hydroponics Certificate - Horticulture
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY2001
Skills
- Plant species identification
- Pest and pathogen indentification
- Plant selection expertise
- Soil management
- Greenhouse operations
- Organic gardening
- Pruning techniques
- Native plant restoration
- Understanding of plant-insect interactions
- Vegetable production
- Employee management, training and supervision
- Volunteer training
Affiliations
- Freedom Gardens (former President of the Board)
- Missoula Iris Society
- Missoula Orchid Society
- Missoula Art Museum
- Clay Studio of Missoula (Founder)
Certification
Montana Pesticide Applicator's License (Turf and Ornamentals) 2026
Timeline
Lead Horticulturist
Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium
09.2023 - Current
Grow Manager
Garden Mother Herbs
05.2018 - 09.2023
Laboratory Technician
Rithron Associates
06.2003 - 03.2005
Greenhouse Technician
United States Antarctic Program, Raytheon Polar Services
08.2000 - 10.2003
Greenhouse Worker and Orchardist
Benson's Farm
03.1999 - 05.2017
Hydroponics Certificate - Horticulture
Cornell University
Bachelor's of Fine Arts - Art And Design
University of Kansas