Shantel Taussig

From Shantel’s earliest memories, she has been fascinated by plants, whether it was harvesting strawberries in her grandmother’s garden or tending to neighbors’ lawns for pocket money. Following that passion, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Greenhouse and Nursery Management from Kansas State University. While in school she worked in several garden centers in Manhattan, gaining experience and knowledge of the industry. That journey led her to Neosho Gardens in Council Grove, Kansas, where she was an Assistant Grower for five years. During her time there, she obtained invaluable insights into every facet of the growing process, from soil quality to adjustments in watering and cultivation schedules tailored to seasonal and environmental factors. A self-professed plant enthusiast, she always looks forward to opportunities to visit with people about plants, including selection, care, trouble-shooting or just how happy gardening makes them.  Although management wasn’t initially her primary focus, I’m thrilled at the prospect of spearheading the development of the Garden Center. Her vision extends beyond retail; and she aspires to foster learning opportunities and forge meaningful connections within our local communities.