St. Charles, IL (June 23, 2026) – Midwest Groundcovers is pleased to announce the promotion of Chris Plane to the position of Vice President of Nursery Operations.

Chris has been a valued member of the Midwest Groundcovers team for more than 12 years. Since joining the company in 2014, he has served in a variety of operational and leadership roles of increasing responsibility, most recently as Production Manager.

Throughout his career at Midwest Groundcovers, Chris has led major initiatives involving production systems, inventory management, operational planning, technology implementation, and continuous improvement. He was instrumental in the company's Lean Flow implementation efforts and played a key leadership role in Midwest Groundcovers' successful transition to Microsoft Business Central. His work has helped strengthen operational performance, improve cross-functional collaboration, and support the company's long-term strategic growth.

Prior to joining Midwest Groundcovers, Chris gained horticultural industry experience in both the retail garden center and commercial landscape segments, providing him with a broad perspective on the green industry and the needs of its customers.

In recognition of his contributions to the horticulture industry, Chris was named a Greenhouse Product News (GPN) 40 Under 40 honoree in 2022.

Chris is actively involved in several industry organizations and initiatives. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the Ornamental Growers Association (OGA), including as President, and currently serves as OGA's representative director for the Chicagoland Grows® plant introduction program, a partnership between the Chicago Botanic Garden, The Morton Arboretum, and the OGA. He also serves on the Terrestrial Plants Advisory Committee for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' Illinois Invasive Species Council and is a member of the International Plant Propagators' Society (IPPS).

“It is a great pleasure to work beside a person as gifted as Chris,” said Christa Orum-Keller, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Midwest Groundcovers and Midwest Trading. “It only heightens such work gratification, to be able to elevate him to a higher role with greater leadership responsibilities. Chris not only has a tremendous work ethic and an incredible intellect, but he is always curious, research and learning oriented, and he holds deep respect and appreciation for all of the people on his team and on our Midwest team. I want to thank Chris for his meaningful work in so many roles throughout his Midwest career up until now, and I want to share my hearty congratulations and my complete confidence on his promotion to his new leadership role!”

Nikki Melin, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, also expressed enthusiasm for Chris's promotion, saying, "Chris's promotion to Vice President of Nursery Operations is an exciting and important step for Midwest Groundcovers. He is strategic and forward-thinking, and his leadership will be instrumental as we continue shaping the future of the company. Chris and I have built a strong partnership based on open dialogue and a shared commitment to doing what is best for Midwest. Sales and production do not always naturally see the business through the same lens, but our ability to work in lockstep has become one of our greatest strengths. This promotion strengthens that partnership and positions us well for the future."

As Vice President of Nursery Operations, Chris will provide strategic leadership for nursery production, inventory management, operational systems, facilities, maintenance, purchasing, and other key operational functions. He will work closely with fellow company leadership to align production strategy, operational capabilities, and long-term business objectives while supporting Midwest Groundcovers' continued growth, innovation, and commitment to delivering exceptional horticultural products and services.

Midwest Groundcovers is a renowned provider of horticultural products and solutions based in the Midwest region. With a commitment to delivering high-quality plants, exceptional customer service, and sustainable practices, the company has established itself as a trusted industry leader. Midwest Groundcovers' diverse product portfolio includes an extensive selection of groundcovers, native plants, ornamental grasses, and other horticultural products serving landscape professionals, garden centers, municipalities, and other green industry customers throughout the region.