Director of Horticulture

Personal Mission Statement

For as long as I remember, plants have been a source of inspiration and awe for me. Their unique form, sheer beauty and sometimes other-worldly appearance have put me on a path of curiosity and learning that I still follow today. I not only aim to provide a beautiful escape to nature for the Insectarium and Butterfly Pavilion (IBP) guests, but also a place conducive to learning about the natural world. It’s my personal goal, and our goal at the IBP to inspire and promote curiosity in young and old people, alike. It’s especially important to have locations like the IBP, within major metropolitan areas, to show that the natural world around us can co-exist with cities. I’m excited about all the projects and educational opportunities we are building at the IBP.

Responsibilities

As the Director of Horticulture (DoH), I have developed and implemented fertilizer, watering, and pest suppression schedules for the 7,000 sq. ft. Butterfly Pavilion. These schedules ensure that the plant exhibits are kept presentable for the public. We utilize integrated pest management (IPM) protocols in order to combat pest and disease problems. Traditional synthetic pesticides cannot be used without risking butterfly and moth safety, so organic pest treatments and beneficial insects are relied on.

Other protocols I have developed include various logging systems and opening and closing procedures. I am also responsible for new plant acquisitions and all onsite propagation programs, such as growing milkweeds for Project Monarch.

I have managed and trained seven members of the plant care staff, including skills on how to identify plant health issues and how to remedy these situations. The plant care staff and I are responsible for ensuring all record keeping and organic material disposal is being performed in accordance with the USDA permits the museum holds. 

Skills

Comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of the plant care requirements throughout the Butterfly Pavilion

Extensive experience developing protocols and creating company structure

Mastery of various museum and building systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems; touch-screen displays and sound systems.

Hands-on management style with strong interpersonal skills

Completed Projects

Roof-top Garden

Trellising

Projects In-Progress

Educational Re-vamp

Outdoor Garden and Picnic Area