Hello there! I’m John Swart, your friendly neighborhood plant enthusiast and co-creator of Legendary Leaves. Alongside me is Diane, my partner, not just in life but in all things green and growing.
My journey with plants began many years ago, rooted in a childhood filled with fuchsias and tuberous begonias, carefully nurtured in our backyard under my father’s watchful eye.
That love for plants only blossomed further with the addition of a greenhouse, sparking a lifelong fascination with the diverse world of plant life.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats – propagator, grower, sales representative, sales manager, and even nursery owner.
Diane, a skilled landscape contractor, has been my steadfast partner through it all.
Together, our ventures presented us with ownership of a wholesale nursery in Oregon, where Japanese Maples and other unusual trees and shrubs.
Later, as time seasoned us more than we’d like to admit (it’s mostly the age, you see), we transitioned to perennials and other smaller plants. This time our focus was on perennials housed in containers that were kinder to our backs. Ah, the concessions we make for age and aching muscles!
Now in our so-called retirement, the allure of plants remains irresistible. That’s why I’m here, starting Legendary Leaves.
This website is my canvas to share stories, knowledge, and experiences of the many plants I’ve grown, sold, and even those I’ve yet to touch. It’s about spinning tales and sharing wisdom without the hassle of pulling weeds.
And Diane? When she’s not conquering mountains or dancing on snow, she’s the mastermind behind our home garden – providing fresh goodies for the table and even planting a few flowers here and there. And yes, I’m there too, offering moral support and the occasional witty commentary.
Our Perspective
At Legendary Leaves, we celebrate the diversity of both plants and gardening methods. Understanding that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to gardening, we offer a variety of techniques for nurturing plants. Our content is a tapestry woven from our personal experiences – our victories, our trials, and the valuable lessons each plant has taught us.
We also draw on the experiences and wisdom of others, fostering a community where shared knowledge leads to collective growth. We believe that your gardening journey should be as unique as you are, often requiring a bit of personalization and experimentation. That’s the true joy of gardening – discovering what works best for you and your garden.
So, whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting to dip your toes into the world of gardening, we’re here to guide, inspire, and support you every step of the way. Welcome to Legendary Leaves – where every leaf has a tale, and every gardener is part of the plot. Welcome to our growing family!
