Denise grew up as a free-range kid, roaming the natural world and helping in her parents’ bountiful vegetable gardens. She brings decades of hands-on gardening experience to her work.

Her interests span art, animals, and plants. Several of her botanical paintings are featured in the EBWG Florilegium, and she has also volunteered in raptor rescue and education. In her free time, she can often be found exploring local trails, closely observing a plant or mushroom, and sketching or photographing with an eye toward a future painting.

After working several summer seasons at Otten Bros., Denise now serves as the Perennials Supervisor. She enjoys tackling thorny garden questions—whether it’s identifying mystery plants, diagnosing damage or disease, or helping customers bring their dream gardens to life. Starting from scratch or enhancing an existing space? Bring her your thoughts, sketches, or phone photos—Denise loves turning ideas into flourishing gardens.