The HortiCoach

Hi! I’m Dusty, The HortiCoach. Your coach for all things horticultural!

My passion is providing affordable consultation and design for local gardeners and DIY home landscapers to overcome the challenging issues of the area and be more successful and satisfied with their gardening and landscaping efforts.

I am a second generation Arizona native, born in Prescott. For the past 40+ years, I have worked in the nursery and landscape business here, except for a few years in the Pacific Northwest.

I earned a bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University in Plant Biology and Taxonomy (native plants), and a Master’s degree from the University of Denver in Natural Resources Management. I am a certified Permaculture Designer (Oregon State University) and a Certified Arizona Nursery Professional.

My favorite areas of focus are:

Efficient and Conservative Water Use and Rainwater Harvesting

Using Permaculture Concepts to Help Protect Properties From Fire, Wind, Noise, etc.

Teaching Organic Gardening, Including Composting, Manures, and Vermiculture (Worms)

Using Native Plants and Other Drought-Tolerant Species for Restoration and Conservation

Building Garden Accessories Through Reuse, Recycling, and Repurposing

Teaching Homeowners Landscape Maintenance and Proper Pruning Techniques for Healthy Plants and Fruit Production