It's All in the Name. Well, Whatever - Branch Manager

Not many weeks ago a customer of mine called me her "Branch Manager". She knows her plants; the balance and visual dimensions, and health, as well. She has a gorgeous property and I can only take credit for a portion of such, but an important section of what she wishes to restore, re-invigorate.

As much of that new title she gave me was very catchy, it was, more so, flattering, and inspirational on a larger scale - I love caring for plants. It's not always the pruning, but it is a huge part of what I do - it's for the health of plants and aesthetically can make a world of difference.

I have performed a few projects on their property (more later), but the biggest reward is getting their plant life more manageable and attractive.

Well, my birthday is coming up soon - please, no gifts, just cards - there is some relevance.

The image you see is a decoupage made by my very first customer - an unorthodox, but successful gardener who asked me to assist her with setting her up with and training her on a personal computer.

The decoupage was given to me on my last birthday, somewhat as a surprise, and I had a difficult time maintaining composure. It will never be forgotten and is on my office wall.

I was working on another business when she awkwardly asked me to perform all kinds of tasks on her property, which is a gorgeous mix of plants and a well-maintained lawn. She, or I, are occasionally planting/transplanting something. She created the monster I am, busy as can be, but I still care for the trimming and pruning of most of her plants, particularly the many japanese maples which I have either named or know where they are going with their branch structure or growth habits. She has a 20-year old I named Mother, whose is about 20 feet tall - I've spent the important years with her - she's gorgeous.

Since then, studying arboriculture and horticulture has only lead me further and into how I can use this in anyway when dealing with plants. It's art, somewhat, but not without science.

Charmelle gave me that gift and gave me so many more opportunities. Her property is often my lab and playground.

For many of you, such as the one who named me Branch Manager, it's all serious, focused and with a goal, but "Playground" makes for a better day.

I love what I do and want you to enjoy the same, or at least the results.

Credit to Elaine: Charmelle (author of two nicknames), said she could not match "Branch Manager".
Thanks Elaine, and Charmelle, as well.

I'll take it!