In this feature, we ask a NENA member to share his or her perspectives. Our fall spotlight shines on Robin Struck, a longtime member and Past President of the New England Nursery Association Board of Directors.
Robin Struck
D. R. Struck Landscape Nursery
Winthrop, ME
Type of Business:
Garden center with a landscape design and installation division offering both commercial and residential services.
Years in Business:
31 at present location with the garden center. The landscape company began 7 years before the purchase of the current property, which brings the total to 38 years!
What was your first job in the industry?
Same as it is today! Vice President and co-owner of D. R. Struck Landscape Nursery.
Who was your mentor when you were first starting out, and why?
Unlike many people in the horticulture industry, I have a BA in Visual Media/Design. I barely knew the difference between a rose and a rhododendron when I was ‘talked into’ running our garden center 31 years ago. I attended computer, accounting, tax and marketing classes through adult education and joined MELNA and NENA where I met amazing people who ‘mentored’ me. The educational opportunities through both professional associations have been invaluable. So I would say both associations have been mentors to me!
What advice would you share with people just starting out in your industry?
Take advice from experienced people in the industry, but let your own gut dictate how you run your business. What works for one company/person may not work for your circumstances. Try new ideas, brainstorm with staff, and have fun learning every day.
From your perspective, what is the biggest change you see for the industry on the horizon?
The way we recruit our work force. Every year it becomes more difficult to find great people. I am not sure what the solution is, but at the garden center I hire people who come through the door with a great smile! New hires can learn horticulture, but customer service skills are inherent.
What's your favorite plant? Why?
Abies concolor is one of my favorites.
The silver-blue color, soft needles, shape and hardiness make it a great plant for the landscape. It retains it’s full shape and lower branches remain thick and full even with age. Birds love the seeds and it provides great cover for them as well. I have cardinals return each spring to the two concolors I have in my yard. What a beautiful sight!
"...let your own gut dictate how you run your business. What works for one company/person may not work for your circumstances. Try new ideas, brainstorm with staff, and have fun learning every day."
What's your favorite/most useful.....
•Equipment? My Kubota tractor. It is a work horse and is easy to use! When we first started the business ‘the equipment’ used to load mulch was pitchforks! Obviously, our first Kubota holds a very special place in my heart!!
•Product? New England Organics Earth Life compost. Plant growth is amazing with the addition of this compost into the soil.
•Technology? My iPhone! I can be anywhere and still communicate with vendors, customers and staff. Taking photos and sharing is a snap! It is invaluable when WiFi is not available! Not to mention having Facebook at my fingertips!
MEMBER
SPOTLIGHT