About Us
Johnny’s Tropicals began as a small pop-up shop. John would sell plants through Cafes and Markets. Over time, we noticed a gap in the plant community—a need for a space where aspiring horticulturists could dive deeper into the science and art of plants. A place where curious minds can learn, experiment, and grow into confident plant enthusiasts.
This is where Johnny’s Tropicals was created—to meet that need by bringing knowledge, resources, and community together.
Together as a couple, John and Ashley combine their shared love for plants and passion for education to run the business. John, the science enthusiast, brings his horticulture expertise and curiosity about innovative plant techniques, while Ashley focuses on creating meaningful connections and building a supportive community. Their goal is to inspire, educate, and empower every plant nerd to thrive—just like the plants they care for.
John - The Horticulturist
John’s journey in horticulture began at age 9, nurtured by his love for nature and working in his mom’s garden. A visit to Longwood Gardens at age 10 introduced him to conservatories and tropical plants, sparking a lifelong passion. By 16, John had built his first greenhouse, complete with an aquaculture system, and gained hands-on experience working at a flower farm during high school.
He earned an associate degree in Aquaculture from IRSC and a bachelor’s in Horticulture from Clemson University, where he also worked at the South Carolina Botanic Garden, learning valuable skills in greenhouse management and conservatory care. Today, John manages the tropical-growing greenhouses at the Missouri Botanical Garden, continuing to combine his expertise with his passion for tropical plants.
Ashley - The Organizer of Chaos
Ashley is an experienced executive assistant and project administrator with a knack for turning chaos into order. Passionate about education, community building, and supporting others, she plays a key role in Johnny’s Tropicals by managing operations, marketing, and community engagement.
As she continues to grow her expertise in marketing, Ashley brings her love of gardening, and herbs, to the heart of the business, fostering connections and inspiring others to explore the world of plants.