Alison comes from a background of greenhouse management; first building then operating a wholesale specialty plant nursery in Bellingham, WA in the early 80’s. Inspired to grow herbs and edibles without dangerous pesticides and with limited industry information available, Alison looked to the Canadian grower network nearby for tools. Beneficial insects produced on nearby Vancouver Island were available, so the biocontrol journey began there. After 20 years of research in beneficial insect use, compost tea brewing, designing soil blends and other green growing methods, she began Sound Horticulture in 2000. Her passion for holistic cultivation fuels and encourages her company’s broad aspirations; bringing biological solutions from years of experience to large scale crop management, greenhouse ornamentals, hydroponics and more. Her favorite pastime is messing in the garden until the tide comes in, then paddle boarding in Chuckanut bay. Salt water goes a long way in getting dirt out from under fingernails!
Karin and Melanie have become an amazing tag team with all things related to orders, inventory and payment. When asked what she enjoys in her free time, Karin’s response is always, “What free time!?”
When not at the office, Melanie guides students through their yoga practice, takes hikes with her husband and puppy, and enjoys a variety of dance classes.
Elaine SawyerSales Technician
We’re as excited to welcome Elaine as our newest Sales Technician as she is to join the Sound Horticulture Team! Elaine most recently worked in the greenhouse at Lake Washington Institute of Technology, and before that at a retail nursery in Redmond where she earned her Certified Professional Horticulturist accreditation. She loves hiking to explore our beautiful PNW home as well as disc golf, baking, and of course just about anything involving plants. She’s also owned her a small gardening and consulting business, we’re looking forward to the technical knowledge and experience she’s bringing to our team!
Kacie GallaSales Technician / Administration
Kacie joined our team with plenty of Small Business Administration & Management experience and a passion to learn about plants. While she works to streamline our processes, she’s soaking in everything there is to learn about horticulture and pest management to better help our customers! In her time off, she enjoys camping, art, and the challenge of home gardening with two pet goats roaming the property.