What began as a simple love for plants has steadily grown into a thriving small business for 20-year-old Lukas Wishork, founder of Down to Dirt Plant Nursery.

Lukas’s passion for horticulture started early, shaped by years spent alongside his grandmother, who has worked at the same local nursery for nearly three decades. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Lukas, then just 15, began working there, finding comfort and clarity among the greenery.

“I’ve been around it my entire life,” Lukas says. “I’ve always loved plants, and it’s really peaceful out there at the nursery with her.”

Inspired by that experience, Lukas eventually launched Down to Dirt—initially selling plants online through Facebook and attending local markets. Since then, the business has continued to grow.

Lukas has participated in local markets in Umatilla, Eustis, and beyond, often collaborating with Whimsy Markets to reach more customers.

A significant turning point came when TD Bank in Lady Lake reached out to Lukas for plants to decorate their grand opening. The event was a success, and since then, Lukas has provided plants and floral arrangements for many of TD Bank’s grand openings across Florida.

“One of their events last year had a 30-foot hay maze with florals and palm trees, and this year they want a faux ivy backdrop with a 6-foot butterfly made out of flowers,” he says.

This year, wedding bookings have already surpassed last year’s pace. Down to Dirt is also nearing 500 sales on Etsy, and total sales are tracking ahead of previous years. Most recently, Lukas launched a new website, downtodirtplants.com, offering an easier way for customers to explore curated plant collections and learn more about the business.

But for Lukas, the numbers are only part of the story. His motivation is about showing what’s possible, especially for other young entrepreneurs.

“I always thought it was impossible to start a successful business at my age—and very hard at any age,” he says. “And everyone tells you so. There’s not many people cheering you on. I want to be everyone’s cheerleader. There’s no competition, as there’s enough business for everyone. We all deserve success.”

To learn more, visit downtodirtplants.com or Facebook.com/downtodirtplantnursery.