Growing a Community: Pioneers of the Japanese American Floral Industry

Glenn Sugihara

The Sugihara Nursery was started in 1915 by Glenn’s grandparents, Jujiro and Teru Sugihara. Glenn’s father, Gilbert, and his four siblings all grew up and worked at the nursery. The Sugihara Nursery survived many obstacles during its years of operation including the Great Depression and WWII Japanese evacuation. After overcoming these setbacks the nursery continued to successfully operate under the management of Gilbert and his brothers. Gilbert took over operations in 1971 and managed the nursery until Glenn took over in 1985. Under his management the Sugihara Nursery continued operations until 2000.