Meet Kristi, the Designer

Artist Foundations. Charleston Heritage. Florida Living.

Hi, My name is Kristi, and my approach to plants is rooted in the principles of design. With a B.A. in Fine Arts and Art History, I’ve always viewed a patio or porch not just as a garden, but as a canvas. This artistic foundation has guided my 20+ year horticultural design career across some of the most beautiful and challenging plant zones in the country.

Before bringing my expertise to Southwest Florida, I spent 10 years in Charleston, South Carolina, a city defined by its world-class garden culture. I had the privilege of working as an assistant to a premier boutique landscape designer, where I learned the meticulous art of estate plant styling and high-end garden installations. That experience led me to a leadership role in container garden design at one of the South's most respected garden centers, where I specialized in creating custom living arrangements for iconic Lowcountry homes.

Moving from (my hometown) of Cincinnati, to the Carolinas, and now to S.W Florida, I’ve been given a deep, hands-on understanding of how plants behave across different planting zones. I know the frustration of watching a beautiful plant fail because it wasn't the right fit for the environment.

Through my business “Dahlia & Petunia”, I focus on Custom Container Design—what I call "Living Decor." I bring a designer’s eye, professional sourcing, and over two decades of technical knowledge to ensure your outdoor space isn't just beautiful, but thriving.

I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s grow something beautiful together.