Today we’d like to introduce you to Mitch Kessler
Hi Mitch, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
**Answer:**
Starting in the early 1970s, my family owned a garden center in the Northeast, where unique cacti and succulents were always a special part of what we grew and sold. That early exposure sparked my lifelong passion for these fascinating plants.
In 1990, I moved to Florida, which gave me the opportunity to continue the family tradition of cultivating cacti and succulents. The warmer climate opened the door to growing a wider variety of species, and what began as a personal hobby—selling plants at local pop-up events and markets—has evolved into a large, state-of-the-art backyard nursery. Today, we grow over 30,000 plants across more than 300 varieties, with more than 90% propagated and cultivated right here.
As a small business, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and a personal touch. We take the time to engage with our customers, helping them find the right plants for their needs and sharing the knowledge they need to care for them successfully.
This nursery is truly a labor of love. We focus on growing what we’re passionate about, specializing in large and unique specimens that stand out in any collection. Recently, we’ve expanded online with a website designed not only to bring these special plants into collectors’ homes but also to serve as an educational resource for plant care. Additionally, we’ve developed our own custom soil blends and now offer a range of horticultural supplies to support our customers in their gardening endeavors.
It’s incredibly rewarding to share these plants and the knowledge behind them with others who appreciate their beauty and uniqueness.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
**Answer:**
It has been a very smooth road in many ways, thanks to the exposure we gained through local sales and events. These early efforts allowed us to build an extensive and loyal following of customers who share our passion for cacti and succulents. Their enthusiasm and support have been instrumental in helping our business thrive and grow into what it is today.
That said, the transition to eCommerce has presented its own unique challenges. Shipping live plants requires careful planning to ensure they arrive in perfect condition, and we’ve had to adapt to the complexities of managing an online store. From creating an engaging digital experience to addressing the logistics of climate-sensitive shipping, it’s been a learning process.
Despite these hurdles, expanding online has opened up incredible opportunities to connect with plant enthusiasts nationwide, and we’re continually improving to better serve our growing community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Kessler Consulting Inc?
**Answer:**
In addition to my passion for cacti and succulents, I founded Kessler Consulting, Inc. (KCI) in 1988, an environmental consulting firm specializing in innovative waste management solutions. KCI focuses on developing sustainable strategies for solid waste, recycling, and organic management, aiming to protect and conserve natural resources while delivering top-tier customer service and quality results.
Both Kessler’s Cacti & Things and KCI are small, family-oriented businesses where personal connections and a strong sense of community are central. Many of our employees have been with us for multiple decades, creating a tight-knit team that shares a commitment to excellence. At KCI, we are especially proud that after 36 years, five of our original clients are still with us—a testament to our dedication to building lasting relationships and providing unparalleled service.
What connects these two ventures is a shared passion for the earth and the environment. Whether it’s through cultivating plants that inspire and sustain or advising clients on innovative environmental solutions, our work is driven by a love for nature and a desire to make a positive impact. Both businesses reflect not only what we do but who we are: passionate stewards of the environment who put our customers first.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is that it’s all about people and relationships. Whether it’s our customers, employees, or business partners, the connections we build are what truly make a difference. Treating others the way you want to be treated has been our guiding principle, and it’s shaped every aspect of our work—from the way we interact with customers to how we support and value our team.
Strong relationships create trust, loyalty, and a sense of community, which are the foundation of both Kessler’s Cacti & Things and Kessler Consulting, Inc. When you genuinely care about people and prioritize their needs, it not only strengthens those relationships but also creates an environment where everyone thrives. For us, this philosophy has been the cornerstone of our success.
Pricing:
- We always offer free shipping on every online order
- We are committed to keeping our prices fare and based on what our plants are worth
- prices range from $10 and up
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kesslerscactus.com
- Instagram: @kesslerscacti
- Facebook: @kesslerscacti
- Twitter: @kesslerscacti
