Owners Mark Taricano and Valerie Matthew

About Us

Plant This Outdoor Services is a premier commercial lawn care and landscaping installation company proudly serving the greater Central Florida, Lakeland, Tampa Bay, and Jacksonville areas. Though we operate across a broad region, our commitment to exceptional customer service remains the cornerstone of our business. What truly sets us apart is our personal approach: we take the time to understand each client’s unique property needs, expectations, and long-term goals, fostering enduring partnerships built on trust and reliability.

We pride ourselves on offering expert guidance and proactive recommendations, always striving for improvements that enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces. Communication is at the heart of everything we do—we continually innovate our processes to ensure every request is met promptly and no detail is overlooked.

As your all-in-one provider for lawn care, irrigation, fertilization, arbor care, and design/build services, Plant This Outdoor Services is dedicated to making your landscape maintenance effortless, providing solutions that meet your needs while exceeding expectations. We’re here to simplify your life and enhance your outdoor environment, one project at a time.

Mark Taricano

Founder

Mark Taricano has dedicated his life to landscaping and is the visionary behind Plant This Outdoor Services. His journey began in 1981 when he launched his first landscape and maintenance company, which he successfully ran for 24 years. In 2005, Mark sold the business, seeking a slower pace through ventures like wholesaling high-quality trees and enjoying what he called “semi-retirement.”

However, Mark’s exceptional reputation followed him. Former clients and commercial property managers frequently reached out, struggling to find a replacement for his unmatched professionalism, impeccable work quality, and genuine friendship. Their continued loyalty and respect led Mark to return to the industry, and in 2014, he founded Plant This Outdoor Services.

Under Mark’s leadership, the company thrived, building on the strong relationships and high standards that defined his career. In 2021, Mark passed the torch to his oldest daughter, Valerie, and her husband, Patrick, who proudly carry on his legacy and commitment to excellence.

Valerie Matthew

Chief Executive Officer

Valerie Matthew, the oldest daughter of founder Mark Taricano, is the current owner and CEO of Plant This Outdoor Services. Growing up, Valerie watched her father’s unwavering dedication to his business, working long hours to deliver exceptional service and keep customers happy. It’s no surprise that she inherited his passion for creating beautiful landscapes and transforming outdoor spaces, whether through subtle enhancements or large-scale renovations.

Before taking the helm at Plant This, Valerie spent 16 successful years in the Property and Casualty Insurance industry as an Account Executive, where she built strong relationships with carrier leadership and excelled at driving performance.

Since assuming ownership in 2021, Valerie has led the company through tremendous growth, more than quadrupling its size in a short period. Her vision for Plant This Outdoor Services is to continue expanding and exploring new opportunities while preserving the personalized, customer-focused approach that has always set the company apart.

Patrick Matthew

Chief Operating Officer

Patrick Matthew is the Chief Operating Officer of Plant This Outdoor Services, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the company. Before joining Plant This full-time in 2023, Patrick served as Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for Paul Davis Restoration, a billion-dollar franchising organization. In this role, he was responsible for overseeing insurance-related operations and building strategic partnerships with carrier senior leadership.

Patrick’s background in managing large-scale operations and fostering key relationships complements his commitment to the family business, where he now focuses on optimizing operations and driving continued growth alongside Valerie. Together, they work to ensure that Plant This Outdoor Services continues to deliver exceptional results while expanding its reach.

Our Team

Valerie Matthew
Valerie Matthew CEO
Patrick Matthew
Patrick Matthew COO
Dave Zdrodowski
Dave Zdrodowski VP of Operations

David Zdrodowski is the Vice President of Operations at Plant This, bringing over 32 years of extensive experience in the landscape industry. Starting his career as a laborer, David quickly rose through the ranks, gaining firsthand knowledge and expertise in every position within the field. His journey through various roles has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the industry, allowing him to effectively manage multiple companies and drive significant growth and business development.

David’s passion for the landscape industry is evident in his commitment to excellence and innovation. He holds certifications in IFAS Best Management Practices and IFAS Limited Landscape Spray, underscoring his dedication to professional development and environmental stewardship. Additionally, he is a Notary Public and Red Cross CPR certified, reflecting his commitment to safety and community service.

As a respected leader, David fosters a collaborative and motivating work environment, inspiring his team to achieve their best. He is dedicated to enhancing operational efficiency and delivering exceptional results for Plant This.

Ian Blackmore - Irrigation Manager
Ian Blackmore Irrigation Manager

Ian D Blackmore is a seasoned Landscape and Irrigation professional with over 33 years of experience in the industry. Based in Central Florida, Ian has built a reputation for his expertise in designing, installing, and maintaining high-quality landscape and irrigation systems for both residential and commercial properties.

He is known for his innovative approach to landscape design, incorporating native plants and eco-friendly irrigation solutions to ensure long-lasting and environmentally responsible results.

Throughout his career, Ian has worked on a diverse range of projects, from small yard landscape makeovers to large-scale commercial developments. His attention to detail, commitment to customer satisfaction, and ability to stay current with industry trends and technologies have earned him the trust and admiration of his clients.

In addition to his hands-on work, Ian enjoys teaching the next generation of landscape and irrigation professionals. He is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and expertise with others.

When he's not working, Ian enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new gardening techniques, and volunteering with local environmental conservation groups. He is also an avid hunter and a passionate college football fan, often spending his weekends in the great outdoors or cheering on his favorite teams.

Ian has been happily married to his wife, Virginia (Ginny), for 27 years. Together, they have four daughters and are proud grandparents to a grandson and a granddaughter. The family also includes their beloved Northern Inuit dog, Cailean.

Josh Hamlin
Josh Hamlin Account Manager

Josh brings a wealth of experience to Plant This, with more than 15 years in the landscaping industry. He has held various roles at other companies like BrightView and ValleyCrest, managing high-end HOAs and resort properties throughout Orlando. Over the years, he has worked on prestigious properties, including Disney resorts, honing his skills in landscape management and customer service.

A Central Florida native from Apopka, Josh was raised around the landscaping business. His father has been a dedicated owner-operator in the residential landscaping industry for over 41 years, instilling in him a deep-rooted passion for the trade.

Beyond landscaping, Josh is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys fishing and hunting, often spending time on the water with his son, Mason. As a licensed boat captain, he has operated fishing charters and continues to compete in tournaments while restoring and repairing boats in his free time.

Known for his friendly and approachable nature, Josh is a valued team member who fosters strong relationships with both staff and customers. His expertise in estimating ensures precision and transparency, and his dedication to follow-through consistently earns the trust of those he serves.

Kirk Allen
Kirk Allen Account Manager & Certified Pest Operator

Kirk Allen is an Account Manager at Plant This Outdoor Services, where he applies his Landscape Technology degree from Florida Gateway College to deliver outstanding service and results for clients. As a Certified Pest Control Operator specializing in lawn and ornamental care, Kirk brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. His understanding of pest management not only helps clients maintain vibrant, healthy landscapes but also ensures environmentally responsible practices that protect their outdoor spaces.

Kirk's extensive experience in pest control enables him to develop tailored solutions that meet each client's unique needs, enhancing the value of our services and fostering long-term relationships. His proactive approach to pest management minimizes issues before they arise, leading to healthier lawns and gardens.

Outside of work, Kirk is a proud 'girl dad' to two daughters. He enjoys spending quality time with his family, engaging in sports, and tackling home renovation projects. Whether at the beach or in the mountains, Kirk cherishes every moment with his loved ones.

Luisa Burman
Luisa Burman Office Administrator
Charles Bubba Dinkins
Charles Bubba Dinkins

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