Josef & Debbie Braeu started the landscaping business in 1979.  For Josef, this venture was destiny. Born in Germany, his education and work in the field of horticulture began at age 14.

Moving to Duluth, Minnesota and its unique climate was a challenge for Josef. He found the area's design possibilities limited by the stock available locally. Duluth, on the shore of Lake Superior, is rated a USDA zone 4 by the lake and zone 3 as you go away from the big lake. Yes, one city with two growing zones. With the effect of the forests and hills, Duluth has many micro-climates for growing, which in itself interested Joe.

With consent from a few clients to "try" stock that had been previously un-tested for hardiness to the delight of all, many varieties prosper in this area! Rhododenron, Azaleas, and Magnolias do well in Duluth's cool summers. Josef has also introduced many dwarf conifers and other unique trees, shrubs, and perennials. He continues to seek out and introduce new and exciting plants to Duluth and surrounding areas. His landscape designs, as well, have broken the set bounds in Duluth and offer inspiration to many gardeners.

The significance of the Edelweiss plant: If a gentleman brings a woman an Edelweiss flower, it is TRUE LOVE because Edelweiss does not grow on the pathways but off the beaten path and it takes great effort to acquire this special flower!

Besides being a 'holding nursery' for the landscape projects, Edelweiss is a retail nursery open to the public Mon-Sat 9-5pm, from May through September. The grounds of the nursery are beautifully landscaped complete with stream, ponds, rock gardens, and classical music (more is added each year). Worth the visit...