Roots of Success: The History of Green Apple Landscaping
Peter Solti’s Transformative Journey in Toronto's Landscaping Scene
Proverbs 13:4 wisely states, 'The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.' This profound truth has been a guiding principle throughout my life, particularly in my early years when I was blessed with a strong work ethic.
In 1977, at the age of 15, I found inspiration during a summer job at a vitamin factory, where I realised my passion for the outdoors. During those outdoor lunch breaks, with the sunlight shining, the idea of working indoors all summer seemed contrary to my nature.
Bold Beginnings
Motivated by this realisation, I took the bold step of starting my own landscape maintenance company at the age of 16. Crafting an advertising flyer, I distributed it to the houses near my residence, offering lawn fertilisation services.
Armed with guidance from a neighbour in the same business, I secured wholesale fertiliser and embarked on a weekend marathon, working 12 hours a day to fertilise lawns using my mother's car. The earnings from that weekend allowed me to purchase an old van, marking the inception of my lawn and garden maintenance service.
The success of the first year led to an unexpected opportunity: a client requested a hedge be planted. Despite my lack of experience, they expressed confidence in my abilities. Seeking guidance from a neighbour with a landscaping company, we tackled the project together.
Transitioning to Landscape Construction
Discovering a newfound love for planting from this project, I decided to venture into landscape construction the following year and founded Sabra Landscaping, specialising in complete makeover projects. Connecting with a landscape architecture student, I hired her to design gardens for my growing client base.
Sabra Landscaping's Growth Spurt
Strategic flyer distribution in a new housing area attracted numerous customers seeking walkways and plant installations. With jobs lined up, I faced the challenge of not knowing how to implement these landscapes.
By placing ads in newspapers and on university campuses, I hired experienced individuals to carry out the installations. Balancing high school, client meetings, and university studies, my days were long and demanding, sometimes seeing clients to 9 pm and then studying till midnight.
Sabra Landscaping thrived for four years, even during my high school and university education. Following my graduation, I gained invaluable experience working for successful landscaping companies in Toronto over the next decade.
Founding Green Apple Landscaping
In 1995, I started Green Apple Landscaping, building on the experience I’d gained over the years. What began as a small step forward has grown steadily through consistent effort and a genuine love for creating outdoor spaces.
Proverbs 13:4 Remains Timeless
As I reflect on this journey, Proverbs 13:4 remains a timeless reminder of the abundant blessings that come to those who embrace diligence.
