The Company

Our History

Plantalgarve was founded in 1985 with a clear mission: to supply iceberg lettuce seedlings for production and export, as part of the Project for the Improvement of the Production and Marketing of Fruit and Vegetable Products in the Algarve Region – a Portuguese-German cooperation project aimed at boosting horticulture in the region.

Founded by Fernando Fernandes, a young graduate of the School of Agricultural Regents of Évora, our company has deep roots in the agricultural sector. Fernando grew up in a family involved in vegetable and citrus production, and his pioneering vision quickly developed into a solid and ambitious project.

During the 1980s, greenhouse horticulture experienced significant growth in the Algarve, particularly with the so-called "early Algarve produce". Keeping pace with this development, we grew steadily, step by step, always attentive to the needs of the market. In the early 1990s, we also began supplying agro-industrial companies in the Ribatejo region, expanding our area of activity and strengthening our presence in the Portuguese market.

Over time, the decline in summer vegetable production in the Algarve presented us with new challenges. In 2007, we began producing ornamental plants, with the aim of ensuring stable production and employment throughout the year, while minimising the seasonality that characterises the sector.

The growing demands of both national and international markets led us to invest in the certification of our processes.

In 2007, we obtained ISO 9001 certification (Quality Management System), followed by Organic Production certification in 2017 and, more recently, Zerya – Zero Residue Production certification in 2023, reinforcing our commitment to safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.

More recently, we have also begun producing grafted plants, a segment experiencing growing demand and representing a natural evolution in our ability to meet the increasingly demanding needs of our customers.

For more than 40 years, we have grown alongside our customers, always remaining true to our principles: quality, responsibility, innovation and close relationships with growers. We continue to build this story with the same dedication and pioneering spirit with which it all began.

Mission

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We produce plants that feed the world with responsibility, trust and close relationships, working alongside those who cultivate the future.

Vision

To be a leading nursery in the Iberian Peninsula, recognised for sustainable production, professional rigour, social responsibility and consistent economic performance.

Our Values

QUALITY AND SERVICE

A commitment to excellence in production, ensuring healthy plants adapted to our customers' needs.
Dedication to providing an efficient and responsive service, attentive to the needs of our customers.
CLOSE RELATIONSHIPS AND TRUST

A close and continuous relationship with our customers, valuing direct contact and in-depth knowledge of the sector.
Strong and lasting relationships with customers and partners, based on transparency and reliability.
INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY

Continuous investment in processes and certifications to meet market requirements.
Sound environmental, social and economic practices.
EXPERIENCE AND TRADITION

Four decades of know-how in the production of vegetable plants, supported by a solid and experienced team built over the years, ensuring stability and credibility in the market.
A family business that balances traditional values with professionalism and a forward-looking vision.