Michael Polozola got an early start in horticulture. Growing up in Greenwell Springs near Baton Rouge, he participated in camellia shows — a hobby he shared with his grandparents and that sparked his interest in pursuing a career involving plants.
Polozola went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the LSU School of Plant, Environmental and Soil Sciences and a doctorate in horticulture science from Auburn University. He’s now an assistant horticulture agent for the LSU AgCenter Central Region, working with home gardeners and nursery owners in a six-parish area. He also is the AgCenter’s statewide point of contact for pecan trees.
Polozola spends a lot of time talking over production issues with the owners of the many nurseries in Forest Hill — a community in rural southern Rapides Parish that’s known as the Nursery Capital of Louisiana. The nurseries ship all sorts of plants to customers around the country.
“One of the most satisfying parts of my job is to actually help someone with their livelihood,” he said. “Unfortunately, sometimes when people contact me, it’s because they have a problem. But I’m glad that I’m there to be able to help them navigate that problem and hopefully mitigate any financial loss.”
Polozola also enjoys answering gardening questions from homeowners and spreading his passion for horticulture. People often call asking how they can save a treasured tree or plant in their yard. Sometimes that’s not possible, and in those cases, Polozola encourages them to see the bright side: a chance for renewal by replacing it with something new. He especially likes suggesting uncommon plants that allow gardeners to add a unique, personal touch to their landscapes.
“Being in extension, I have an opportunity to help plants and people,” he said. “It’s a very positive, active change I can do in the world.”
Michael Polozola photo by Olivia McClure
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture