Pohlmans Nursery is Planting for the Future with Jane’s Weather PRO
Andy O'Brien
Pohlmans Nursery
As Queensland’s largest independently owned plant producer, Pohlmans Nursery thrives on precision and innovation to deliver high-quality plants across Australia to the likes of Bunnings Warehouse and more. Located in the Lockyer Valley, Pohlmans Nursery faced unique weather challenges that required accurate forecasting for frost protection and operational planning. By adopting Jane’s Weather PRO, Andy and the Pohlmans team have transformed how they manage critical tasks, ensuring efficiency and plant health.
The Challenge is Confidently Navigating our Weather
Farming in the Lockyer Valley, Queensland demands precision due to the area’s highly variable weather. Andy, innovation lead at Pohlmans Nursery, highlighted key challenges;
Frost Damage
Frost events below 2°C wreak havoc on plants, causing flower and leaf damage that leads to rejection by retailers.
Limited Weather Accuracy
Relying on distant Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) stations left gaps in localised forecasting, which was essential for proactive frost and spray planning.
Spraying Operations
Timing sprays for optimal effectiveness was challenging without detailed weather insights, impacting plant health and operational efficiency.
The Solution is Jane’s Weather PRO
After learning about Mulgowie Farms’ use of Jane’s Weather and the QDAF weather station network in the region, Andy adopted Jane’s Weather PRO for Teams. This platform brought hyper-local, AI-driven weather forecasting to the nursery.
Key Features Leveraged by Pohlmans Nursery
Weather Station Integration
Andy integrated the nursery’s weather station and nearby QDAF stations with his Jane’s Weather AI Forecast, enabling hyper-local weather forecasting tailored to Pohlmans’ unique microclimate.
Frost Protection
Precise frost forecasts allowed Andy to anticipate freezing temperatures and activate sprinkler systems at critical times, saving plants from damage.
Spray Condition Forecasts
Detailed predictions for wind, temperature, and humidity ensured sprays were applied during ideal conditions, maximising effectiveness and reducing waste.
Reliable Forecasts During Downtime
Even when their weather station experienced issues, Jane’s Weather maintained accurate forecasts, ensuring continuity in planning.
“Jane’s Weather PRO has been invaluable. Knowing when to turn on the frost sprinklers saved our plants, and the spray condition forecasts are perfect for our outdoor operations.” — Andy, Pohlmans Nursery
The Results are Efficiency and Resilience
Pohlmans Nursery has experienced significant benefits since adopting Jane’s Weather PRO
Proactive Frost Management
Frost sprinklers are activated with precision, protecting plants from temperatures below 2°C and preventing costly losses.
Streamlined Spraying Operations
Accurate forecasts optimised spraying schedules, reducing waste and ensuring compliance.
Improved Planning
Hyper-local forecasting allowed for better day-to-day and week-ahead planning, saving time and enhancing operational efficiency with confidence.
Confidence in Continuity
Reliable forecasting, even during weather station downtime, ensured uninterrupted support for critical operations.
Looking Ahead for Continuing Innovation
Pohlmans Nursery is exploring additional ways to enhance its operations with Jane’s Weather PRO, including the use of advanced forecasting variables like evapotranspiration (eTo) and growing degree days (GDD). Andy’s proactive approach to integrating hyper-local weather insights reflects the nursery’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
“Jane’s Weather PRO brings everything together - current weather, accurate forecasting, reliability, and easy to use tools that fit us perfectly.” Andy, Pohlmans Nursery
About Pohlmans Nursery
Established in 1976, Pohlmans Nursery is in the Lockyer Valley, Queensland with land dedicated to intensive plant production. Offering a wide variety of plants, Pohlmans is a trusted supplier for retail and wholesale markets, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. Learn more at pohlmans.com.au.
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