Calab Aarsen

Caleb is a 19-year-old with a deep passion for horticulture and a knack for turning soil, seed, water, and care into thriving fruit and vegetables. His interest in plants began early, experimenting with propagation in his Oma’s garden and co-running a seedling business with his siblings (with a bit of help from Mum and Dad).

Now studying towards a Diploma in Horticulture at Lincoln University, Caleb has already completed a horticulture apprenticeship and continues to build hands-on experience. Outside the garden, he enjoys spending time with friends, playing sports, riding his motorbike, and working on cars—although his tend to spend as much time breaking down as running, thanks to a habit of collecting them.

This is Caleb’s second time entering the competition, after placing third last year. He’s back to give it another crack, keen to keep learning and growing in the industry.