Built of Love: Petitti’s green thumb sprouted after his uncle, an avid gardener with whom he lived, suffered a stroke. Taking on the physical brunt of landscaping duties, Petitti learned the trade and discovered the beauty of watching a seed bloom. “No matter how many times you see it, it’s like a miracle.”
International Inspiration: After touring a garden center in England, which featured concrete pathways and a covered complex, the seeds were sown for what his business could become. “It’s like we were living in the stone age. I was so inspired that I bulldozed the whole store in Oakwood over that winter and rebuilt it. It was really the start of what we’ve built today.”
Keeping it in the Family: Petitti, who immigrated from Faeto, Italy, at the age of 16, views continued service to Northeast Ohio as the company's key to the future, though the business decisions are up to the family’s next generation. “From my perspective, we’re much better served by serving our community best.”
On the Air: Since 1982, his weekly WTAM 1100 radio show Gardening With Petitti connects the industry authority to his fans. “It’s like you’re talking with your friends on the phone. I think it’s a good service to our community and customers.”
More info: petittigardencenter.com
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