Debbie

Meet Debbie – Co-Owner & Lifelong Gardener

Debbie’s connection to gardening began in childhood, sparked by the scent of a lilac tree and a curiosity for the natural world. That early interest grew into a lasting passion, especially for vegetable gardening. In recent years, she’s also focused on designing landscapes that support birds, butterflies, and pollinators—always eager to learn and improve.

In 2000, Debbie and her two daughters purchased Lindley’s Nursery, then located on a scenic 4-acre oak hammock. When that land was later sold for development, they relocated to Lindley’s current location at the corner of Old Mission Road and Canal Street. In 2017, Debbie and her daughter Jenni expanded the nursery by acquiring the neighboring property, allowing Lindley’s to serve more customers and continue growing.

Today, Debbie remains actively involved in the day-to-day operations, keeping a close eye on everything from staffing and plant care to customer experience. Her leadership and commitment help guide the business forward while preserving its community-centered roots.

Sophie, Debbie’s chocolate lab, still stops by a few times a week. At 13, she prefers the quiet life—napping in the sun and accepting treats from team members and customers alike.

Jennifer

Meet Jennifer – Co-Owner and Creative Force at Lindley’s

Jennifer Pell’s journey with Lindley’s began in 2000, when her mom, Debbie, was ready for a career change and discovered the garden center for sale. Jennifer planned to help out for a few years while finishing college—but quickly fell in love with the business, the people, and of course, the plants. That love inspired her to shift her college path to horticulture and ultimately become co-owner of Lindley’s, proudly continuing the family legacy.

Born and raised in Volusia County, Jennifer grew up between Deltona and Osteen, with New Smyrna Beach as her playground. Her gateway into gardening? Spotting a discarded Sansevieria ‘Bird’s Nest’ on the way home from school. She brought it to her Papa’s house, and they potted it together—sparking a passion that has grown ever since.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science in Landscape and Nursery Management from the University of Florida. Her favorite part of the job is the variety—some days she’s a graphic artist, others a landscape designer, irrigation tech, or plant doctor.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys fishing adventures with her kids and their loyal black lab, Oakley. She also holds a longtime love for pottery and hands-on creativity that inspires her every day.

Benjamin

Meet Benjamin – Garden Enthusiast & Curious Explorer

Benjamin’s gardening roots trace back to his family’s vegetable garden in Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, where they grew tomatoes, squash, beans, and more. He fondly remembers canning alongside his family and learning the rhythms of the seasons. His mom’s colorful border of cosmos attracted pollinators and sparked his early appreciation for the balance and beauty of nature.

In February 2025, Benjamin joined Lindley’s Nursery, drawn by Debbie and Jenni’s clear mission and the way it’s reflected throughout the community. “The assurance in that choice continues to grow the longer I’m here,” he says.

Benjamin brings a calm and thoughtful presence to the team, always eager to learn and contribute. He appreciates the nursery’s connection to both people and place and enjoys being part of a business that cultivates more than just plants.

Outside of work, Benjamin finds joy in discovering local cafes, biking scenic routes, visiting Disney parks, and diving into books and documentaries—all usually accompanied by music playing in the background. He and his wife shared 16 wonderful years with their beloved black cat, Rishi, and he now enjoys visits from Lindley’s own Opal, who never misses a chance to say hello.

Benjamin’s curiosity and dedication make him a valued part of the Lindley’s family.

Melissa

Meet Melissa – Our Chief Executive of Watering (C.E.W.)

Since February 2016, Melissa has been keeping things blooming as our official C.E.W.—Chief Executive of Watering! It’s one of the most important jobs in the nursery, and she takes it seriously, making sure every plant gets the care and attention it needs to thrive.

Melissa’s journey into the gardening world began with her love for Morning Glory vines. Their vibrant color and rapid growth captured her heart and sparked a passion that eventually led her to Lindley’s, which she proudly calls “NSB’s only real garden center!”

Originally from Everett, Pennsylvania, Melissa made her way to Florida and quickly embraced the beach life. A self-proclaimed beachaholic, she finds peace in the sound of the waves and sunshine on her face. When she’s not at the nursery or the shore, you’ll likely find her tuning into a NASCAR race—she’s a big fan and doesn’t miss a lap!

With her dedication, personality, and green thumb, Melissa is an essential part of the Lindley’s family. Whether she’s watering plants or offering a warm hello to a customer, she brings positive energy and steady care to everything she does.

Adriana

Meet Adriana – A Natural at Growing Plants and Community

Adriana’s love for gardening began with orchids, rens, and any plant she could bring back to life. She has a gift for nurturing not just plants, but people too—always ready with a smile and a helping hand.

Originally from Belo Horizonte, one of Brazil’s largest cities, Adriana moved to New York City in 1999. Though her roots are in Brazil, she says, “my fruits are in America.” Now living in New Smyrna Beach, she wanted more than just a place to live—she wanted to belong. She found that sense of connection at Lindley’s Nursery, where she joined the team in November 2023. “I love the teamwork and the environment we have here,” she says. “It feels like family.”

Outside of work, Adriana enjoys swimming, mountain biking, beach days, and being surrounded by family and friends. She also holds a special place in her heart for Oscar, her beloved Weimaraner, who she still misses every day.

Adriana’s energy, warmth, and dedication make her a valued part of the Lindley’s team. Whether she’s helping a customer choose the perfect plant or bringing new life to a struggling one, she does it with heart.

Brandon

Meet Brandon – From Fairways to Flower Beds

Brandon’s love for plants began with the vibrant azaleas he admired each year while watching the Masters Golf Tournament. That early appreciation for beautiful landscapes stuck with him through a career in the golf industry, and in 2023, he decided to take the leap from fairways to flower beds by joining the Lindley’s team.

A proud New Smyrna Beach native, Brandon brings strong local ties and a solid work ethic to the nursery. He’s especially eager to keep learning more about landscaping, plant care, and the day-to-day workings of a real garden center. He enjoys the hands-on nature of the job and the chance to grow his knowledge in an environment full of support and expertise.

Outside of work, Brandon stays active and engaged with the outdoors. He enjoys riding BMX bikes in the evenings, working in the yard, and spending quality time with his family. Life at home includes not just loved ones but also a horse and two cows—keeping things lively and always connected to nature.

Brandon’s curiosity, energy, and commitment to learning make him a welcome addition to the Lindley’s crew.

Sarah

Meet Sarah – Fresh Air & Sunshine Seeker

Sarah’s plant journey began in 5th grade with a variegated heart philodendron she rooted in a small Crisco can. When she gifted it to her teacher, the joy it sparked started a lifelong love for gardening that’s only grown stronger with time.

Originally from Carol City, Florida, Sarah joined Lindley’s Nursery in 2024. After moving to a home without space for a garden, she missed the satisfaction of planting and nurturing greenery. Discovering Lindley’s filled that void—and more. “I found out what a wonderful place Lindley’s was,” she says. “My coworkers and customers are the best ever!”

Though she doesn’t currently have pets of her own, Sarah has a deep love for animals and enjoys spending time with the nursery’s resident cats and dogs throughout the day. Their friendly energy adds an extra layer of joy to her work environment.

When she’s not among the plants, you can find Sarah swimming, walking the beach, or enjoying a little window shopping under the Florida sun. Her calm spirit, green thumb, and friendly nature make her a bright presence on the Lindley’s team.

Whether helping customers or soaking up the beauty around her, Sarah brings heart to everything she does.

Christina

Meet Christina – Creative Soul & Plant Lover

Christina’s journey into the plant world began with a few succulents and houseplants, but it quickly blossomed into a full-blown passion. As she learned more about plant culture and the joy of growing, her appreciation for nature deepened. In the spring of 2025, she joined Lindley’s Nursery and immediately felt at home. “Every shift I work reminds me it was one of the best decisions I’ve made,” she says.

Originally from Orlando, Florida, Christina brings a creative and curious spirit to everything she does. Whether she’s writing, painting, woodworking, practicing yoga, skating, or exploring new hiking trails, Christina thrives when imagination and movement come together. Her artistic perspective often shines through in her work, adding color and heart to the Lindley’s environment.

At home, Christina shares her life with a spirited cat named Pneuma, a chameleon named Matcha, and a cleverly named snake called No Feet. Each of them adds to the peaceful, playful energy she brings into her daily life.

Christina’s positivity, creativity, and eagerness to grow make her a vibrant part of the Lindley’s team. Whether she’s caring for plants or connecting with customers, she brings warmth and originality to everything she touches.

Julie

Meet Julie – Inventory Management Extraordinaire

Julie has been gardening for as long as she can remember, with early memories of planting flowers sparking a lifelong love for working with plants. That passion eventually led her to Lindley’s Garden Center, where she appreciates being part of a small business surrounded by others who share the same enthusiasm for gardening.

Outside of work, Julie enjoys staying active through tennis, pickleball, and hiking. Originally from a southern suburb of Chicago, she joined the Lindley’s team in 2025.

At home, she shares life with her cat, Daphne.

Jay

Meet Jay – Coffee-Sipping Plant Whisperer

Jay’s love for plants began with a Silver Satin Pothos purchased in 2020—now a thriving plant with more than twenty propagations and still growing strong. That first plant opened the door to a passion for gardening and houseplant care that continues to flourish today.

Outside of work, Jay enjoys weightlifting, hiking, visiting cozy coffee shops, and spending quality time with friends and family. At home, Jay is also a proud pet parent to two cats, Perch and Frankenstein—better known as “Frankie.”

Originally from Traverse City, Michigan, Jay made the move to Florida in 2019 and was excited to join Lindley’s Garden Center in September 2025. With a genuine love for plants and a desire to learn more about landscaping and the green industry, Jay is thrilled to be part of the team and to help others grow their own love for plants.

Oakley

Meet Oakley – Head of Hugs & High Energy

Oakley is Lindley’s resident lovebug and certified good boy—a black Lab with boundless energy, a heart full of loyalty, and a tail that never stops wagging. Whether he’s greeting customers, shadowing the crew, or trotting proudly through the pottery yard, Oakley takes his self-appointed role as morale booster very seriously.

From his very first visit to the garden center, Oakley made it clear: he’s here for the people, the pats, and the occasional muddy adventure. His enthusiasm is contagious, and his joy for life adds a spark of energy to every corner of the nursery.

At home, Oakley is a cuddle connoisseur and loyal shadow, happiest when he’s with his family—especially if there’s a tennis ball or treat involved. He’s always up for a walk, a romp in the yard, or just being part of the action.

Oakley reminds us to embrace each day with enthusiasm and a whole lot of heart. His playful nature, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion make him more than just a shop dog—he’s family.

If you see a blur of black fur and a happy face zooming by at Lindley’s, that’s Oakley, spreading joy one tail wag at a time.

Ollie

Meet Ollie – The Quiet Watcher & Tabby Guardian

Ollie is Lindley’s Garden Center’s low-key, watchful tabby who prefers the quiet corners and gentle shadows. Adopted alongside his sister Opal in September 2021, Ollie keeps a careful eye on the nursery from a respectful distance, quietly observing the hustle and bustle without ever needing to be the center of attention.

Though a bit shy, Ollie has a gentle heart and a loyal spirit. His favorite spots include tucked-away shelves, cozy nooks behind potted palms, and the occasional sunny windowsill where he can dream undisturbed. Staff know him as the calm presence who’s always close by, silently rooting for the team and providing quiet comfort on busy days.

When not blending into the background, Ollie enjoys the simple pleasures—listening to the rustling leaves, watching birds from afar, and curling up in soft blankets during slower afternoons. He has a keen interest in the nursery’s feathered visitors, often patiently watching from his perch.

Ollie may not seek the spotlight, but his quiet companionship and steady watch make him an important part of the Lindley’s family. He reminds us all that sometimes, being present quietly and attentively is just as powerful as being center stage.

Opal

Meet Opal – Feline Greeter & Resident Shadow

Opal may be small in size, but her presence is unmistakable. This sleek black cat was lovingly adopted September 2021, along with her brother Ollie, and has become a cherished part of the Lindley’s Garden Center family. Known for quietly weaving between displays and surprising customers with a soft “hello” at their feet, she quickly made Lindley’s her forever home.

Though she keeps a mysterious air, Opal’s daily rounds are anything but casual. She inspects every sunny patch, oversees the fluttering butterflies, and occasionally perches like royalty atop a pallet of pottery. Her favorite tasks include supervising staff breaks, napping in warm garden carts, and accepting chin scratches from those lucky enough to be chosen.

When she’s not on duty, Opal enjoys lounging in shaded corners, chasing leaves, and silently judging any dog that dares to visit. She’s also known to charm her way into photo shoots and customer hearts alike.

With her glossy coat, golden eyes, and cool confidence, Opal brings a quiet magic to Lindley’s. She reminds us all to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and walk softly—because you never know who might be napping under the hibiscus.

Zym

Meet Zym – Head of Non-Human Resources

Zym is Lindley’s resident reptile royalty—a stunning orange fancy bearded dragon with a relaxed attitude and a regal presence. Originally thought to be a boy, Zym later revealed her true identity, and she’s been ruling her terrarium with quiet confidence ever since.

With her vivid coloring and chill demeanor, Zym adds a touch of exotic charm to the nursery. You’ll often find her basking under her heat lamp, surveying the world with wise, sleepy eyes. She’s not one to seek the spotlight, but she always manages to turn heads—especially when curious visitors stop by for a peek.

Zym enjoys the simple pleasures: warmth, stillness, and the occasional crunchy snack. While she’s not one for snuggles, she’s a calming presence and a favorite among team members and customers alike.

Her journey from mistaken identity to full-blown queen is part of what makes her special. Zym reminds us that everyone has their own pace and style—and that being still can be just as powerful as being busy.

Next time you’re at Lindley’s, look for the bright orange scales and regal pose. That’s Zym, soaking up the sun and living her best bearded dragon life.