Perhaps owning a nursery was a matter of course for me, as gardening has been a big part of my life from the time I first learned to walk. Born in Antwerp, Belgium, it was my Grandma “Moe” (pronounced “Moo” in Flemish) who first introduced me to the wonders of the garden. Before the dolls became famous, Grandma convinced me that I should look for a new sister, or brother, in the cabbage patch.

By the time I was 10 years old, I had a large cactus collection and when I attended the University of Ghent, it was the Agricultural Engineering and Forestry departments that led me to an MA. In 2005, I added a diploma from Dominion Herbal College, Burnaby BC, to my formal training.

I started Brackenrig Nursery almost 30 years ago. From a small nursery, the company has grown into a large garden centre and garden maintenance company with crew leaders that are knowledgeable and passionate about our customer’s gardens.
When not immersed in the gardening business, I enjoy travelling with my husband, Ted. Even in places like India, the Middle East and Costa Rica, however, my camera keeps focussing on flowers and gardens.

I have three talented daughters, Jessica – PhD candidate Philosophy at the University of Toronto, Erica – Fine Arts Major and computer programmer in Toronto, and Celine – graduate chef, plant crazy and world traveller. They have always been a big part of my business and I am grateful for their love and support.