Our Family…
Scott Peterson, Owner
Owner Scott, or Scotty, never thought that his small pet project would grow into the flourishing business it is today. Scott is proof that it is never too late to reinvent onself, over the course of his life he has had a career as a photographer, glass artist, railroad professional, landscape architect for shopping malls, and other pursuits. Roots Garden Center is not his only enterprise in Burleson, he also owns Texas Floral Design on NW Hillery Street. Scott is dedicated to his endeavors, recently obtaining certifications from the Texas Nursery and Landscape Association. Scott’s kindness and honesty has earned him the loyalty of his team; he rarely takes days off for himself and is always thinking of ways to give back to his employees. Scott resides in Burleson with his wife and business partner, Karen.
Jeff Miller, Nursery Manager
Jeff Miller, plant enthusiast, artist, and kept man, struck up a fast friendship with Scott when Roots opened their doors. Jeff has been instrumental in keeping Roots Garden Center flowing smoothly over the years. His knowledge of everything from trees and shrubs to lawncare to irrigation has been handy not just at the greenhouse, but on the landscape crew as well. Over the years Jeff has developed a talent and passion for laying rock, he is our resident stone expert and has led the Roots team in constructing the naturalized pond feature at the garden center. Jeff has recently become a certified Texas Nursery and Landscape Professional.
Kristi Wallace, Plant Manager
A swirling tempest of feline and plant loving energy, Kristi Wallace came to Roots as a purveyor of unique houseplants and hard-to-find perennials. Kristi’s knowledge and passion for plants is only matched by her love for cats; her cats, your cats, the neighbors’ cat, she loves them all and will fight you if you say otherwise. As a customer Kristi found herself assisting fellow patrons with plant selection and knowledge more than she spent time on her own purchases. Eventually Scott had to offer her a job. Kristi’s eye for plant health and organization has helped to keep Roots in peak form while her extensive knowledge and good taste have ensured customers walk away from Roots satisfied, although sometimes with a lighter wallet. Kristi is a wealth of knowledge and kindness for her fellow plant people, Roots is made better by her presence.
Aspen Zatlo, Director of Operations
Aspen came into Roots as a customer in the fall of 2018. To say she is a plant enthusiast is an understatement. Scott soon realized that he needed this young lady on the Roots team and offered her a job in early 2019. Her thirst for knowledge and willingness to try new things soon propelled her to the position of Landscape Manager. With her keen eye for design and her extensive knowledge of plants she soon became a leading landscaper in the Burleson area. Scott has often said that “there are three really good landscapers in Burleson and two of them come to Aspen for advice.” Aspen has a childlike wonder for all aspects of the natural world and is often seen trying to pet bumblebees or rescuing spiders out of nursery pots. When you come out to the nursery take the time to visit with Aspen, you’ll be glad you did.
Justin Miller, Landscaping Lead
The newest member of the Roots crew, Justin came to Roots through his connection with Scott. Justin has been an excellent addition to management, he has done great things to keep the landscaping team organized and efficient. Justin is a devoted dog owner and extends kindness to all animals the landscape team encounters. We value Justin for his quiet demeanor and great work ethic.