Meet the Owners
Frank Asher
OLD CITY greenAs the only locally owned plant nursery in downtown DC, we want to get the word out about where people can get help to beautify their spaces, whether it be a large backyard garden or just a pot or two in an a studio apartment windowsill. We carry all sorts of plants, and have a large native plant and vegetable/herb selection. We also sell soil, mulch, organic fertilizer, seeds, and carry seasonal items such as pumpkins, Christmas trees, summer produce, etc. We have a small scale landscaping business called Fairies’ Crossing.
We are more than just a retail spot, we are a community space-hosting free workshops and parties for kids and adults in the neighborhood, hiring local musicians to play on the weekends, acting as a pick-up site for Community Supported Agriculture, renting out our beautiful space for events, and encouraging people to take their lunch breaks in the garden. We have helped several local non-profits to plant gardens, including the large rooftop agricultural garden at Bread for the City.
Our mission is to bring nature back into the urban environment by fostering as many green spaces in DC as possible-our motto is “Bringing people and plants together”.
1. What is your name and the name of your business?
Frank Asher, OLD CITY green
2. Give us a short description of your business
We are primarily a plant nursery/garden center, but we try to be much more than that. Through events, free workshops, hosting a community supported agriculture program, and supporting local artists, we strive to be a community space where people can get some green in their lives, can find access to fresh and healthy food, and have a respite from the congestion of the city.
3. What was your first job?
My first job was when I was 13 years old working on a chicken ranch in Fresno, California. I collected eggs, fed the chickens, killed the sick ones, and buried the dead ones. Needless to say, I’m glad to be where I am today!
4. What is a day in the life of you (work day)?
It’s different every day! I work very closely with my employees, helping them to learn about the plants that we sell and teaching them the “ins and outs” of small business management. I meet with customers and clients to help them decide how to beautify and green their space. I do much more paperwork than I wish was necessary, and would rather spend time connecting with the community around me. I am very lucky to live right next door to my business, and spend as much time enjoying our beautiful lot as possible. My days normally start early in the morning checking on the plants with my dog Missy, and ideally end with a friend or two sitting around our campfire with a glass of wine.
5. What do you do for fun (when you are not working)?
I enjoy getting out of the city to places more peaceful, zip-lining, learning about garden designs and techniques from all over the world, and drinking red wine by the fire.
6. Why should DC residents think local FIRST?
When you shop local, a higher percentage of the dollar stays in your own community. You are directly creating jobs for your neighbors, and supports a unique, vibrant neighborhood.
7. Favorite DC LOCAL spots
Pulp, and Busboys and Poets
