The Starkie Bros team
George (Butch) Starkie (Owner)
As a kid, Butch started a landscape business with his brother, John. They bought the Farmingdale property on Main St. in their early 20’s and started a small outdoor nursery and landscape design business.
In the early 1990’s, the Starkie Brothers Garden Center that stands today was built and became a full-service indoor/outdoor nursery.
The brothers divided their businesses in the late 90’s. John Starkie owns and operates Starkie Brothers Custom Landscaping and Butch Starkie owns and operates the Garden Center.
Patti Starkie (Owner)
After raising their four kids, Patti joined the company in 2013 and works alongside her husband and sons.
George (Hank) Starkie (Owner)
Hank recently received his Bachelor’s Degree in Ornamental Horticulture Technology and has now “officially” joined forces with his Dad. Hank started his career at Starkie Brothers at the age of 14.
Between hands-on experience and education, Hank is very knowledgeable in the field of horticulture. In addition to running the day to day operations, Hank does plantings and landscape design.
Jim Markham (Nursery & Store Manager)
Jim joined the company in 2004 and came to us with 30 + years’ experience in the Garden Center business. He’s been a dedicated member of our team since day one!
Jim’s knowledge of trees, shrubs, plants and flowers is endless and is THE GUY to see for all your planting concerns.
Veronica Kovarik (Store Manager & Bookkeeper)
Veronica has been with the company since 2005 and, alongside Jim, runs the day to day operations of the store. She also manages our office operations.
Veronica is the “go to” person for pretty much everything and a wonderful asset to our team.
Lori Lucchese (Pon Dept. Manager)
Lori is the Fish Whisperer and the expert in pond care. She runs a tight ship and keeps our Pond Dept. well stocked and organized, making our customer’s shopping experiences a great one.
Nick Starkie (Manager)
Nick is an asset along side his brother Hank. Nick is currently attending Farmingdale State College for an Ornamental Horticulture Technology degree.
Nick has had many years of hands-on experience. He has been running around learning since he was in kindergarten. In addition to school and running the day to day operations, Nick does plantings and landscape design along side of his brother.
Tomas Sanchez (Outdoor Nursery Manager)
Tomas has been with the Starkie boys since the beginning! His knowledge of trees, shrubs and seasonal plants is endless.
Tomas works tirelessly and keeps our nursery yard running like a well-oiled machine. Even on a crazy Saturday in May, his calm demeanor never waivers.