An industry icon and a dear friend of HRI, Peter Orum, has at long last written his memoir, People, Plants, and Politics. Now, for a limited time and with limited availability, Mr. Orum has pledged that proceeds from book sales will be donated to HRI. Between now and March 31, for the first 100 orders, you can support HRI while taking in the story of Peter’s remarkable journey from Denmark to the U.S., from the army to the board room, and from being a mentee to being a mentor—and a friend to many. 

About the Book

Born in semi-rural Denmark during German occupation, Peter Orum early on experienced hard work and adventure, a solid education, and the nurturing of a small and close-knit family. Following apprenticeships and service in the Danish Army, he made his way across the Atlantic to work at a Midwestern nursery where, with the help of mentors, he began to plan for what would become one of the largest and most influential nursery operations in the region.

Along the way, his “outside” interests—ranging from leadership and support of local, national, and international associations and foundations, to his collection of vintage World War II vehicles, among many, many other interests—helped to shape the story of his life.

“It has been an interesting journey through life, and now for a second time through this book. The journey has brought me to unbelievable joy and heartbreaking sadness, and everything in between.

“I came from very little in the country Denmark that I loved, to a country, the USA, that gave me tremendous opportunity, and that I came to love for its freedom to speak and to do things. Neither is perfect, and neither are we.”

This Danish-American has a lot to say, and you’ll want to take in every word!