Employee Spotlight: Jessica Janes
Q: Can you share a little about your work background and how you got your start at Star® Roses and Plants?
A: I began my journey in the horticultural industry while studying at the University of Delaware. Seeking hands-on experience, I found an internship with a horticultural company in West Grove, PA. I quickly realized how much I loved the work and knew this was the career path I wanted to pursue after graduation. Today, I’m still with that company—Star® Roses and Plants—and I continue to enjoy my role as a Plant Breeder!
Q: What is one thing about your job that you particularly enjoy?
A: I love the endless possibilities that each new breeding season brings, and every Spring renews my excitement! Right now, as seedlings sprout in the greenhouse, I can’t wait to watch them reach their full potential this Summer during evaluations. There’s nothing better than stepping outside or into a greenhouse, surrounded by beautiful plants—it truly makes my job a joy!
Q: Is there anything that surprises you about the horticulture industry?
A: When I first got into horticulture, I had no idea just how many career opportunities existed in the field. I was amazed to discover the wide range of paths available, from research and landscape design to greenhouse management, floral design, and plant pathology—there’s truly something for everyone. What I love most about horticulture is how it blends science, beauty, and creativity, making it such a fun and rewarding industry to be a part of.
Q: We’re lucky to work with a product that is beautiful and alive: plants! Can you speak to how that affects you and the way you do your work?
A: One thing I didn’t anticipate when I started working with plants was how many photos I’d need to take! Photography wasn’t a natural skill for me, so I took a course to improve. It made a huge difference in the quality of my work photos, and now I’ve come to enjoy photography as a hobby too!
Q: It’s hard to choose a favorite plant, but what is one that you particularly love right now?
A: During this season, when you find yourself wondering if anything will truly come back to life, one plant stands out—Winter Honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima). Its delicate, buttercream-yellow flowers release a fragrance like no other, serving as a delightful reminder that Spring is just around the corner. I love bringing stems indoors—their sweet scent is the perfect cure for the winter blues.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’ve received or one thing you’ve learned from working in the horticulture industry?
A: “Always look up.”
We often experience the world only at eye level, but there’s so much more happening all around us—above and below! This advice was given to me as a reminder to fully take in my surroundings. In practice, it means looking up at the trees and sky while also noticing the mushrooms hidden beneath the leaves. It helps me appreciate the beauty that’s right in front of me, even when it’s not at eye level.
Q: When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?
A: Outside of work, I love spending time with my family. We enjoy visiting nearby gardens and spending time outdoors. I also have a passion for pen drawing and crafts—I’m always excited to dive into a new art project! In the summer, we love spending time at the beach and celebrating the 4th of July in the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire.
