For the founder of plants and i, gardening began long before it became a business. It started in Pine Island, Florida, surrounded by the beauty of her grandmother’s tropical garden, bougainvillea climbing in vibrant color, the sweet fragrance of frangipani trees and afternoons spent perched in the branches of a tangerine tree, eating fruit until there was no room left for another bite.
“Something about my grandmother’s home-grown food always tasted better,” said Kat Market, owner and the i in ‘plants and i.’
Then, there was her mother, lovingly nicknamed “Large Marge,” whose flower gardens could stop people in their tracks.
“My mom could literally grow anything. The two most important women in my life taught me patience and how to create beauty for others to enjoy,” Kat commented.
Today, those early memories have blossomed into a growing business rooted in creativity, kindness and connection.
The Germination of plants and i
The idea for the business came unexpectedly during a conversation on a friend’s back porch.
“We were talking about opportunities, and I finally said, ‘Why can’t I just be the crazy plant lady and help people make their gardens feel loved?’”
That simple moment became the beginning of ‘plants and i,’ complete with its whimsical little gnome logo affectionately known as “Little Marge.”
What started as a dream quickly grew into something more meaningful. Through helping fellow gardeners, Kat realized many homeowners simply wanted to be surrounded by beauty, whether they had the time, physical ability or gardening experience to create it themselves.
“Some people want a perennial flower bed worthy of Holland; others just want seasonal color and something cheerful to enjoy with their morning coffee,” stated Kat.
Creating Gardens That Feel Personal
The process at plants and i starts with something simple: listening.
Every project begins with a complimentary yard consultation where Kat walks the property alongside the homeowner, discussing favorite outdoor spaces, sunlight conditions, color preferences, pollinator interests, pets and maintenance needs.
“The client is in control of the canvas. I’m just there to help install the vision,” Kat said.
After the consultation comes what she jokingly calls her “recon mission”; searching for the best plants and materials to fit both the homeowner’s goals and budget. She also creates virtual renderings using photos of the existing landscapes, so clients can visualize their transformed spaces before installation even begins.
The result is a garden tailored not only to the property itself, but to the people living there, as well.
Gardening for Every Lifestyle
One of the most meaningful parts of Kat’s work has been helping homeowners who once believed gardening was no longer possible for them.
Some clients have limited mobility. Others work long hours, dislike yard work or jokingly refer to themselves as having a “black thumb.”
“There are so many facets’ people don’t realize matter…sunlight, hardiness zones, soil pH and watering habits. Sometimes people just need guidance and encouragement,” commented Kat.
Her philosophy is refreshingly approachable – gardening should never feel intimidating.
“There are no wrong answers. You may just have to move things around a little bit. If you’re learning and enjoying yourself, you are doing it right!” Kat said.
She emphasizes practical beauty as much as aesthetics, considering allergies, pets, accessibility and the amount of maintenance a homeowner can realistically manage.
A Love Letter to Lake Norman Gardening
The Lake Norman region offers a unique gardening canvas thanks to North Carolina’s versatile growing zone.
“This area is such a beautiful place to garden. You can have timeless southern classics like hydrangeas, azaleas and gardenias, but also tropical pops of color and even palms around the lake. A garden is a place of peace, serenity and self expression. The plants people choose are what make them happy,” stated Kat.
More Than Landscaping
For Kat, gardening goes far beyond curb appeal. “It touches your soul. It is the smell of the dirt, the texture of the soil, the bees buzzing around, the feeling of being connected to nature. Serving homeowners in Lincoln County is the cornerstone of what we do. Neighbors helping neighbors…that’s our culture here,” Kat commented.
And, when clients finally step into their completed garden spaces? “I hope they feel welcomed, safe, surrounded by beauty and truly at peace,” Kat stated.
To contact Kat Market, call 980.229.8187 or email [email protected].
