Leslie Hunter Cario—Horticulture Consultant
A group of volunteers joined Adkins Arboretum staff to plant the River Birch Allee around twenty years ago. As a native plant horticulturist working nearby, Leslie was one who helped out. She began visiting frequently to enjoy the grounds and, in 2014, began helping with grant projects. In her current role as Horticulture Consultant, Leslie serves as an extension of staff by providing technical assistance with seed propagation and nursery facilities, as well as procuring plant material for horticultural collections and retail plant sales. Her work also supports the development of the Living Collections Database and outreach initiatives with volunteers, Master Naturalists, and the public.
On a daily basis, Leslie works as an independent consultant for growing facilities, landscape operations, environmental non-profit organizations, and engineers through her business Chesapeake Horticultural Services, LLC. She is licensed as both a Nutrient Management Consultant (MDA and DDA) and a Pest Control Consultant (MDA). A Certified Professional Horticulturist through Maryland Nursery Landscape & Greenhouse Association, Leslie maintains additional ties to the industry by serving this group’s board. She also serves on the board of the Chesapeake Conservation Landscaping Council and is certified through their Chesapeake Bay Landscape Professional advanced certification for design and installation. Having served as a LEAD Maryland Foundation Fellow, where she took part in extensive training in agricultural and natural resource leadership. With a degree in environmental science, Leslie offers an ecological perspective to the services she provides.
lcario@adkinsarboretum.org
410-634-2847, ext. 320
