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How I OperateI am a really small landscape firm. I like it that way because the "doing" part of landscaping has always been what I enjoy most. I have found that my customers also like it that way. Instead of giving you a bid, then handing the actual work off to a crew that may or may not take any personal pride in what they're doing, I am there from beginning to end, directly overseeing the work.
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How did I learn to landscape? |
Here's my Cliff Notes resume: I have a B.S. in Ornamental Horticulture and a M.A. in Botany, both from California State University, Fresno. I have worked for other landscapers, and also as a park horticulturist in the Kansas City area. Then I got into publishing (long story) as editor of a trade magazine for landscape professionals. That led to a good gig at Meredith Corp. here in Des Moines as editor of a quarterly called Garden, Deck, and Landscape. That led to an even better gig as garden editor of Better Homes and Gardens magazine for about ten years. Meredith and I recently parted ways, so I'm back doing what I've always known and loved: landscaping.
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My philosophy |
Publishing garden magazines put me in the middle of the green industry for about 20 years, and the knowledge I gained sets me apart from other landscapers. It's no exaggeration to say that "I've seen it all." But after years of filling magazine pages with dreamy landscapes, a pattern became clear. Most of the landscapes you see in magazines are from the coasts, and they cost vastly more than 99% of us would be willing to spend. My approach to design is much different: I won't to try to sell you some over-the-top installation. I want to give you something that is attractive, affordable, appropriate for the Midwest, and doesn't overwhelm you with maintenance. Simple, right?
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