If Rick could do anything else in life, he would fish. Perhaps one day when we retire his dream of being a local fly-fishing guide will come true. His favorite vacation each year is our Father s Day trek to the San Juan River in northwestern New Mexico with his kids, our fathers and a week s worth of fishing. Aside from fishing he enjoys a good football game, getting his vegetable garden in and a good barbecue with friends and family.

In 2005, Rowland s, who he had worked for since he was a little boy collecting cans around the property for his father, was closing its doors after 53 years in business. The day of the announcement was an epiphany for Rick — it was his golden opportunity to start his own business. So, with $60,000 in retirement savings and help from friends and family, he started Jericho Nursery.

There are many words to describe Rick: helpful, caring and giving would be a few. But I don t think words are enough. As his wife, I can try to describe him in phrases: he is as honest as the day is long; his integrity and drive to succeed are unmatched; he has a sense of humor that keeps you on your toes; and best of all, he s a man that is using his business to lift up the people who work for him to reach all their potential. His faith in God, hands-on approach, and a well-seasoned staff are the keys behind Jericho s success.

Rick has sat on numerous boards, including: the Japanese Beetle Task Force; he was acting president of New Mexico Association of Independent Nursery Industries; and is currently assisting the New Mexico chapter of the Colorado Nursery and Greenhouse Association to create testing programs for nursery, landscape and greenhouse employees. Now the owner of his own thriving business, a successful call in gardening show, New Mexico Garden Talk, and years in the nursery industry, Rick has earned the title of expert in the Albuquerque gardening community and much of New Mexico.

Join Albuquerque garden expert and TV’s “Garden Guy,” Rick Hobson, on New Mexico GardenTalk.
You can listen and call-in with Rick & Jim Sais on KKOB 770AM — every other Saturday starting at 11:00 AM — to answer all your gardening questions!!!