We recently connected with Tina Sottolano-cain and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Tina, thanks for joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
Gardens On The Go was born during my senior year of college at Temple University. All senior students were required to submit a final presentation that was a summation of our four years of study In the horticulture and landscape program. I recognized that there was a need for a niche business focused solely on plant combinations grown in pots. Mini gardens that are easy to move, maintain and perfect for small spaces. In a world shifting towards smaller living spaces throughout the 1990s, where downsizing became a booming trend, the concept of gardening took on completely new dimensions. Families who had once sprawled across expansive gardens felt overwhelmed as they transitioned into condominiums or senior living communities, often with barely a balcony or patio for their beloved green companions. This era called for a transformation—a shift toward nurturing mini gardens nestled in clusters of colorful pots filled with blooming flowers.
It is important to note that I knew there was an untapped market in the Landscape industry and with my background as a grower with extensive plant knowledge the concept of “Gardens On The Go ,” emerged, tailored container gardens designed to simplify the act of growing flowers and foliage to enhance and beautifying small outdoor spaces. The idea started to bloom as many individuals from young and old, to beginners and even the most seasoned gardeners rediscovered their love of gardens without all of the back breaking labor of a large garden.
Imagine a beautiful arrangement of vibrant flowers, paired with a stunning tropical Mandevillia vine in a stately urn on either side of your front entryway or back patio. Or a classic terracotta pot of mixed succulents displayed on your outdoor table. Each creation would serve not just as décor but also as a living art display. Containers gardens are much more than pots filled with random plants.
When compared with traditional gardening containers are obviously easier to maintain and they conserve more water.
Having huge garden beds can be difficult to maintain for seniors and kids alike. Container gardens allow for easy access whether they are traditional pots or raised beds.
One is not better than the other. It is important for people to understand that containers are a compliment to a traditional garden. They work together esthetically. I describe it in these terms, traditional gardens provide structure to your outdoor room, which is your yard. Inside a house we use furniture to provide structure to a room and use accessories to pull the space together, that is the purpose of container gardens. They are accessories that pull an outdoor space together to enhance the traditional garden. Container gardens can be changed out seasonally from spring, summer, and fall. Including the winter holiday season providing beautiful evergreen displays to enhance any space that can be enjoyed all year long.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello, I’m Tina Sottolano-Cain, a dedicated horticulturist and the proud sole owner of Gardens On The Go, Container Garden Design and Consulting. My journey into the world of gardening began at an early age, influenced by the green thumbs of my family. My mother instilled in me a love for houseplants and flowers, while unforgettable weekends spent in my grandparents’ backyard ignited my passion for growing vegetables. Those memorable experiences shaped not only my appreciation for nature but also my commitment to fostering beautiful and fruitful gardens.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture and Horticulture from Temple University, I cultivated my interest in container gardening further. It was here that I discovered the exciting potential of creating stunning, sustainable spaces even in limited environments. Through innovative design and a personalized approach, I’ve helped many clients find joy in cultivating their own gardens—no matter how small.
For over 20 years, I’ve served as a lead Horticulturist in the garden center industry. My extensive expertise allows me to guide clients through selecting the right plants, creating cohesive designs, and ensuring their gardens thrive. Each individual container and space has its own characteristics. We identify those characteristics and design the plant material, height, size and scale to that specific location. No design that we create is like another. They are unique seasonal works of art to be seen and shared alike. From tropical indoor plants to enhance the interior of a home to serene backyard retreats, I believe that every space can be transformed into a lush, living work of art.
At Gardens On The Go, I don’t just design gardens; I understand plant life and how it connects each individual to nature. My motto is, “If you have a spot for a pot, you have room for a garden.”
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
Aquiring new clients can be a challange in the changing world of communications, but I think the best resource for finding new clients is from your existing clients, family and friends. Existing clients, family and friends already have a positive experience with me and can serve as valuable advocates. They can provide testimonials, refer you to their contacts, and help spread the word about the products or services I provide. For example, one of my good clients has referred me to one of my very best clients to date. I usually receive at least one or two referrals a year. Providing excellent customer service, going the extra mile, and continuously delivering value help keep my clients satisfied and more likely to refer me to others.
Don’t sleep on Social Media. Never underestimate the power of engagment on Instagram and Facebook. Whether you are interacting with followers around the globe or locals in your immediate area you increase your visibilty for free. I have aquired several clients on both Facebook and Instagram and consulted virtually, this was important especially during the pandemic.
Furthermore, utilizing social media can be an effective way to engage with existing clients and encourage them to share their positive experiences. Sharing client success stories, hosting contests, or offering exclusive promotions can create a buzz and attract new clients.
And finally a well designed website featuring professional high quality imagery and a strong mission statement can be a useful marketing tool to possess. It sets you apart from the competition. Visitors to your site are encouraged to sign up for a newsletter or fill out a client request form for a future consultation. By maintaining strong relationships, implementing referral programs, staying connected, and leveraging social media, you can tap into their network and gain new clients through their recommendations and referrals.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
My gardening philosophy has always been a strong commitment to the overall health of the plants. That is why within two weeks of completing a job I offer a complimentary check-in. This helps to enhance trust in the relationship you are building with the client. During this visit, I will examine each plant combination to ensure they are recovering from the intial planting and that they are being watered properly. If I’m not the one caring for them personally, I want to equip the client with the knowledge and reassurance to nurture them effectively. Clients want to have the peace of mind knowing that your container gardens are flourishing and meeting their full potential.
I provide step-by-step care and maintenance instructions tailored specifically to each planter. These guidelines cover everything from watering schedules to sunlight needs and fertilizer recommendations.
The feedback I receive from clients regularly reinforces the importance of this comprehensive approach. Many express their appreciation for my expert advice, finding it not only helpful but also instilling a sense of confidence in maintaining their living investment. Together, we can ensure that the container gardens aren’t just planted, but genuinely thrives—bringing joy and vibrancy to your space all season long.
So, whether it’s an enthusiastic check-in or simply sharing insights on long-term care, I’m here to support their gardening journey with expertise and passion, most often beyond the initial installation. That is what keeps my clients coming back for more gardens and advice.
In addition to hands on instruction staying connected with our existing clients through regular communication is essential. Sending newsletters, updates, or personalized messages helps keep my business top-of-mind and remind them to refer you to potential new clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gardensonthego.com
- Instagram: @adirtygirlsgarden
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tina.s.cain?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/tinagardensonthego
Image Credits
William Thomas Cain, Cainimages