Aris Horticulture Inc. is consolidating its two “Keepsake Plants” Florida production facilities and is constructing 239,580 square feet of new greenhouses at the Fort Myers facilities.

“In view of changes in the horticulture industry, a comprehensive review of current and future production needs concluded that combining the operations was the best way to satisfy customer needs and improve overall business performance,” said Bill Rasbach, president and CEO of Aris. “Having the new greenhouses and shipping from one location provides improved growing conditions and efficiencies in transportation.”

As a result, the Parrish facility, the smaller and older of the two, will be closed in phases and will cease operation around December 31, 2010.

New greenhouses are under construction in Fort Myers and will be fully operational by the end of the year. There will be no change in the product mix, which includes Keepsake azaleas, tropical hibiscus, mandevilla, potted rose, and rooted garden mum and aster programs.