Experience/Education: B.S. in Agriculture-Horticulture from MU; Associate's from Moberly Area Community College.

Redding managed a large greenhouse in Springfield, Mo., before returning to Moberly to open his own nursery and greenhouse business, which he operated for 10 years. He joined MU's Landscape Services in December 1995.

Redding teaches Botanic Garden classes and lunch-and-learn classes for Campus Facilities on a variety of horticulture subjects.

Campus territory: Redding's crew maintains property around all MU residence halls and the Energy Management/Power Plant complex at the corner of Stewart Road and Fifth Street.

Favorite part of your job: “I enjoy working on campus, watching it grow horticulturally. Sharing common goals with quality staff members who have a strong interest about the ongoing maintenance and long-term goals of the campus as a "Botanic Garden.”

Favorite spot on campus: “The West side of Ellis Library because of the diverse perennial gardens. Also, Memorial Union because of the exhibitions of high quality of flower displays planted there each year.”

Favorite plant: Hostas. “I have a collection in my own garden of 35 to 40 varieties. New and interesting cultivars are being developed constantly.”

Favorite flower: “Daylilies, especially the newer varieties. Hybridizers are creating flowers that take your breath away because of uniqueness in size and color. I have almost 400 different types in my personal collection.”

Favorite tree: Japanese maples, especially the weeping forms, with their serrated, thead-like, finely textured leaves.

Best gardening tip: Warning to all: Gardening is a disease for which one finds no cure. It is bound by association, it overwhelms the senses with the scent of a single rose, and often impairs the afflicted with the necessities of frequent stops at local nurseries. If infected there is no complete treatment, if any at all.

For more profiles, visit the main Gardener Profiles page.