Hello everyone! My name is Lane Wiens, and I am the new Shawnee County Horticulture Agent.


I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Kansas State University in 2020 and will be finishing my Master of Science degree in Horticulture this spring. My Masters’ research is focusing on using chemicals used in greenhouses to control the size of plants to extend how long foliage plants look good before they need to be cut back. It’s been interesting research and is answering a question that no one has thought to ask. My work experience in the horticultural industry is varied but has broadened my knowledge of plants and their care. I’ve had some retail experience, helping customers to select plants for their combo planters or in the garden. I’ve also worked in production greenhouses, working to grow all the plants a small, local greenhouse in the Manhattan area sells for the year, but also in teaching greenhouses at KSU, helping teach the next round of horticulturists how to grow efficiently in commercial operations.


Other areas I have experience in are fruit production and winemaking, thanks to an internship at a vineyard around Manhattan, as well as experience in landscape design, installation, and maintenance. I’m looking forward to putting these skills to work for the residents here in Shawnee County!
Lane Wiens
(he/him)
Shawnee Co. Horticulture Extension Agent
1740 SW Western Ave, Topeka, KS, 66604
785-232-0062 ext. 104