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Aerial View of Ruppert Nurseries (Courtesy of Ruppert Nurseries)

Join AIA DC COTE as we leaf-peep at Ruppert Nurseries! This tour will consist of a hay wagon ride around the tree farm during which we will cover the topics listed in the learning objectives. Q&A Sessions will take place during the tour and afterwards. Please dress appropriately for being outside and consider bringing a hat and walking shoes. Light refreshments and drinks will be provided by the RN team. It is about an hour drive to the location.

Learning objective 1

Evaluate how nursery‑level sustainability practices—including cover cropping, native species cultivation, and integrated pest management—impact site resilience, environmental health, and long‑term landscape performance in architectural projects.

Learning objective 2

Assess tree structure and health (pruning methods, root architecture, leaders, branching habits) to reduce site hazards, support safe circulation, and ensure long‑term compatibility with built elements such as foundations, pavements, and utilities.

Learning objective 3

Identify appropriate planting windows—including root‑pruned stock, summer digging limitations, and fall‑planting risks—to mitigate transplant failure, protect site investments, & support healthy establishment in compliance with project performance goals.

Learning objective 4

Coordinate effectively with landscape architects & contractors by integrating plant‑related constraints into site planning, documentation, & construction sequencing, reducing installation risks & improving overall project HSW outcomes.

Presented By: 

Kelly Lewis (President & Partner) 

Kelly started with Ruppert Nurseries in 1994. He is a Certified Professional Horticulturist and has a Texas A&M Certificate of applied business management.

Nick Graves (General Manager)

Nick has been with Ruppert since 2006 and has a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Landscape Horticulture with a minor in Agricultural Business and Entomology. Nick is also a Certified Professional Horticulturist.