Who We Are
Leon Ginenthal
Der Rosenmeister
Although I grew up in the Bronx, I enjoyed spending summers in Swan Lake, NY in the Catskills where I started gardening as a young boy. I have been growing roses for over 35 years.
In June 2017, I retired from a 40+ year career in special education and staff training and am now able to devote more time to my other passions. These include bonsai, all things horticultural, working out, genealogy and raising and showing pigeons.
I am a consulting rosarian for the American Rose Society, founding president of the Finger Lakes/Southern Tier Regional Rose Society, 2023 silver medal honoree for meritorious service to rose culture, the American Rose Society and the NY District. I am also a representative on the Agriculture Committee for the Town of Ithaca.
Renate Schmitt
Master Gardener
My wife, Renate Schmitt, a fantastic cook, and avid vegetable gardener, helps manage every aspect of the business along with me. She is a Master Gardener with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County. She is also a Hospicare volunteer and sings in their Threshold Choir. She was born in Thaleischweiler-Froschen, Sudwestpfalz, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.
Jules Ginenthal
Our son, Jules Ginenthal, works for the Cornell Botanic Gardens in their Natural Areas Program. He is an avid bicyclist and gardener. He helps with all things mechanical, heavy lifting, and any chainsaw work needed.
Sylvie Ginenthal (May 10, 1984 - December 16, 2021)
Our daughter, Sylvie Ginenthal, was an amazing baker and cook. She helped in every aspect of the business as well. Sylvie got me through any technology issues I had to deal with. She said her speciality was customer service and unsolicited advice and opinions! She is greatly missed.
