OUR FOUNDER – Leslie’s Garden was founded in 1996 by Leslie Schmitt.  Leslie designed and installed hundreds of creative landscapes.  In 2014 Leslie trained a new generation to carry on her work and legacy, and retired to Florida to enjoy a longer growing season!

Bill and Kelly Gilles are carrying on Leslie’s work designing and installing creative landscapes along with their talented landscape designers and installation foreman.  Foreman Jeff is a graduate of the University of Minnesota’s horticulture program and has several years of install experience.  Designer Barbara graduated from the University of Minnesota’s landscape architecture program and brings over 25 years of parks planning and landscape design.  Heidi has 10 years of experience designing high end landscapes and is a graduate of the University of Minnesota’s landscape design program.  Both Heidi and Barbara are MNLA certified.

Since 1978, the Minnesota Nursery and Landscape Association (MNLA) has sponsored a Certified Professional (CP) program for individuals in the nursery and landscape industry. The objective of the MNLA Certified Professional program is to uphold, improve, and promote standards of professionalism and excellence within the industry.

Certified Professionals in all areas must pass an exam and must attend a series of continuing education classes and participate in industry improvement activities. These certifications ensure that business patrons benefit from the best knowledge and experience in the green industry.