Rooted in Expertise
The story of IHORT is one of distinction. It began with passion, innovation, and dedication. Our founder, Gary R. Hartman, is a seasoned expert in the horticulture industry – respected by many. The propagation materials he introduced have since become some of the most widely embraced products on the market. The brainchild of Hartman’s extensive experience, IHORT was established in 1998 and its legacy lives on today. Our mission remains steadfast – to offer sustainable cultivation solutions for growers everywhere.
As one of the leading suppliers of stabilized media, we have set a benchmark that distinguishes IHORT from its competitors. Despite our exponential growth, our commitment to delivering superior products and services to our customers has remained unwavering. We are here to provide solutions for our global community of growers.
So, what sets us apart from the rest? To begin with, we offer an extensive range of products that cater to the preferences and needs of growers. Our offerings span from loose plugs to pre-filled trays, in a variety of sizes and media types, catering to the requirements of operations of all sizes. We take pride in serving large-scale growers as well as hobbyists.
The Power of Q Plug
Our patented Q Plug is a stabilized media that not only works but has been scientifically proven to enhance root growth. This is made possible through state-of-the-art technology and a specific soil handling process. The end goal is to maximize crop yield and success in cultivation. Ever since Gary Hartman introduced the Q Plug to the market in 1982, the product has been fine-tuned to help your plants take root faster.
The proprietary bonded soil of the Q Plug enables growers to handle their plants at any age. This not only accelerates root development but also ensures protection at every stage of growth. The stabilized media in this plug is designed to maintain its shape from propagation to harvest, eliminating the need for plastic grow cups and thus reducing operational and environmental footprints.
Innovative Efficiency with Excel Plug
Another innovative design we offer is the Excel Plug, a cost-effective solution comprised of a softer grow material that promotes quicker bonding with your plants. This speeds up the growth process, making it more efficient.
The patented quick-start Excel Plug comes ready for use in a pre-filled tray, saving both time and labor, and ultimately reducing costs. These plugs are thoughtfully designed with a softer shape, keeping mechanical transplant growers in mind, and leave little to no residue behind.
For those just starting their horticultural journey, we also offer a beginner-ready retail kit. These “all-in-one” growing kits are a perfect fit for hobbyists and home gardeners. Each kit includes a watering tray and a pre-loaded plug tray, making it convenient for home gardeners to plant their favorite vegetables, herbs, flower seeds, or cuttings.
A Vision for the Future
Our commitment goes beyond simply offering high-quality products. Environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of our mission. Every product we create has been carefully designed with sustainability in mind. Our plugs are crafted from all-natural media ingredients and are engineered to maximize efficiency while minimizing the environmental impact. This commitment is not just a part of our mission; it’s a promise to our customers.
Our products, as well as their applications, align with cutting-edge growth technologies spanning hydroponics, aeroponics, aquaponics, container growing, and even traditional field transplanting.
Our customer base is extensive, reaching individuals and organizations across every facet of horticulture, indoor agriculture, hobby gardening, living walls, and beyond. We take immense pride in our role as the leading authority in propagation media. Allow us to demonstrate what sets us apart from the competition.
