Mary Woolman

Star Roses and Plants

Woody ornamental and edible product manager

What 3 to 4 professional and/or personal accomplishments are you most proud of?

• Acquiring my bachelor’s degree in natural resources from Oregon State University while working at Star Roses and Plants.
• Becoming the woody ornamental and edible product manager at Star Roses and Plants and developing a very strong team.
• Being a part of bringing award winning products to the industry such as cercis ‘Flame Thrower,’ RHS Chelsea’s Flower Show Plant of The Year 2021 and ‘Li’l Annie Oaklea,’ Cultivate Retailer’s Choice Award 2024

What led you to work in the horticulture industry?

• Gardening with my mom and attending Cecil County School of Technology in high school for natural resources.

What’s the best thing about your job? (Please select one)

• I get to do what I love, every day

Describe to a 6-year-old what you do in life?

• Plants are my superpower.

What are your favorite hobbies?

• Fishing, boating/kayaking, camping

When you’re not working, what are 2 to 3 things we could find you doing?

• Gardening
• Fetching, running and swimming with my German Shepherd Freya
• Spending time with my friends and family

Do you have any unusual talents, or can you tell us something interesting about yourself that other people may be surprised to find out?

• I was a cheerleader while in school. I really enjoy dressing up in formal or costume wear and dancing, even today.

One thing you can’t live without?

• A nearby body of water that I can easily visit in my free time

What are you (un)secretly good at?

• Playing pool — but good, not great

What are your top three bucket list items?

• Explore the tropics
• Rescue a senior dog
• Swim in a mountain hot spring

What’s your favorite plant variety and why?

• Kalmia latifolia (mountain laurel) because it reminds me of home.

You’re buying a vacation package to anywhere in the world without a budget, where are you going?

• Greece