My story

When I was four, I was enamored with the idea of making a wish while you blew puffs of Dandelion seeds into the wind.  One afternoon as a surprise for my mother, I dug up Dandelions from the field next door and planted them throughout her garden. With the wisdom and patience only a mother can muster, she realized I needed my own patch of dirt and created a small garden in an old washbasin for her budding gardener. From that moment on, I’ve had dirt on my clothes and a trowel in my hand.

While I continued to plant petunias, raise vegetables, and mentor other gardeners, I veered into the world of Psychology, earned a PhD, and became a university professor, but even in the world of academics, I couldn’t leave my garden obsession behind. In my professional life, I studied questions of person-environment fit – “How do people interact with their environment in a healthy, sustainable manner?” Over and over, psychological research told us people were happier and healthier when they engaged with the natural world, and scientific studies consistently pointed to the responsibility of humans to care for the environment. 

Through the years hands-on-gardening has taught me many things about how we can bring sustainability into the garden and how caring for the environment brings joy to those who inhabit the natural world.  To supplement what I’ve learned through experience, I’m currently working toward certifications in both sustainable agriculture and horticultural design and hope to continue to expand my knowledge and understanding of people and our physical realm.

During my time at the university, I brought energy and excitement to teaching and working with students. Now I am bringing my passion for gardens to my work with people who want to create beautiful, sustainable outdoor spaces.