Curtis Stroud, Co-Owner and CFO
What changes/ trends/ advancements have you seen in the landscape industry?
“Definitely more options in the area of hardscapes. It used to be only brick and mortar-type construction and now we are seeing different materials and aggregates used for walls, patios, fire pits and outdoor kitchens.”
What have you learned about Kansas City’s landscaping during your tours throughout the country?
“How little use of color there is in other parts of the country. Kansas City stands out for using lots of color you don’t seem to find elsewhere.”
What do customers need to understand about the industry right now?
“Plant material is extremely scarce. When the economy tanked a few years ago, many nurseries on the East coast closed. No one was lining out plant material to be ready to sell 5-10 years down the road. That deficit has now driven up the prices of trees and shrubs.”
What is the difference between the large box stores versus independent nurseries?
“Timing and availability. The large box stores sacrifice the customers’ best interest by having plants available at the wrong time. Peppers and tomatoes shouldn’t be ready to sell in early March, and summer annuals shouldn’t be sold in April. I think we care more about the plants and the customers than the box stores do.”
Favorite tree and why?
“White dogwood. I like the lighter color of the bark and the beautiful white blooms. It looks great planted against any color of house.”