What's in a name?
THE MAKING OF DPLANTMANN® (THE MIDWEST LANDSCAPE EXPERT)
About 20 years ago, some friends and Don were waiting for a table at a well known eatery. As in the past, it became apparent that his last name can be butchered many ways over an intercom. Taking the hint, he started using Smith as his restaurant name whenever going out to eat. Since Smith is common, the host or hostess would ask for an initial, D was the logical choice. One of his passions is plants, so he started using the name Dplantman in his emails. When he changed internet providers, Dplantman was already being used, so he added another n to form his moniker and brand, Dplantmann. The Dplantmann® name was registered as a Trademark in 2008.
Don's formal education consists of a BS Degree in Agriculture, Plant & Soil Science and Fine Arts, with class work in Horticulture, Geology and Hydrology. His continuing education includes becoming a Father, Master gardener, Professional Photographer, Carpenter, Patented Inventor, Naturalist, Lecturer, and Creator of Garden Sculptures. He is a College Instructor, U. S. Marine Vietnam Veteran, Radio show host and volunteers his time to worthy causes. At times he is hard to classify but would best be identified as a horticultural renaissance man.
Unique in the field because he doesn't profess to know it all. "I take as much joy in learning new things as in teaching the things I know to others and will gladly give individuals direction to do their own research, if needed." All of the questions he answers are honest and to the point. "People appreciate legitimate professional information, without trying to be sold something". His methodology is effective, "I try to mix a combination of book learning, up to date research, field experience and common sense". This native Chicagoan knows the difficulties of working in the Midwest with its heavy soils and weather variables. So, if you happen to see him at a show, stop by, ask him your landscape questions or just say 'Hi'. Don will answer your questions or tell you where to go (to get more information)!
