Our Story.

The roots of Rooted by Keits began long before the business itself - and owner Tyler Keit envisions them growing to reach our whole community.

“Our philosophy is to provide high quality plants at very competitive prices to as many people in this area as possible,” Tyler Shares. “The name ‘Rooted’ came from what business means to me. My roots are in this city, and in this industry. So, although we’re a new company, I already have plans of ways I think Rooted can help better then community.”

Blooming in Essexville, Rooted by Keits offers ornamental flowers, hanging baskets, flats along with perennials, vegetable and herb plants, and more. Tyler, son of one of the owners of Keits Greenhouse and Floral Center, says, “In a sense, I was born into the greenhouse business.” Growing up, Tyler went to the family greenhouse everyday before and after school, working “until either school started or my dad was ready to go home.” At age 18, Tyler felt something growing inside himself: the want to establish something of his own.

“Without my family knowing,” Tyler Shares, “I leased a piece of property bought a used greenhouse, and temporarily set it up in Midland. It was just one small greenhouse, and for a month or two I would buy and sell flowers.” Yet, each spring, business blossomed a little more. At age 22, Tyler got the opportunity to grow larger in Auburn, next to the Auburn Food Center. As the years went on, Tyler graduated from college and was looking to find a more substantial job. He found himself further interested in a production greenhouse.

When Tyler heard of a potential greenhouse for sale locally, “I headed right over there, and I actually got the owners’ number from their neighbor!” He soon met with Diane and Butch Vennix who owned Vennix Greenhouse for more than 20 years and were ready to retire. “I think the timing for both of us couldn’t have been more right,” Tyler shares. “During the months of the buying process, these ‘sellers’ became more like grandparents. They’re two of the nicest people you cold ever meet.”

At age 29, Tyler took ownership of 1175 W. Ridge Rd. In Essexville, and Rooted by Keits became officially established. “I’ve been in this business for some time,” Tyler shares, “but this feels like it’s just the beginning.” Tyler says he loves how everyday at Rooted is a little different, he finds it extremely rewarding growing tiny seeds into healthy plants, and he says the people are the best part of his job. Talking with suppliers, forging relationships with organizations, his employees, Tyler says he’s surrounded by good people an he loves catching up with customers. “They’re happy and cheery to be buying plants,” Tyler says. “Just being in the greenhouse, surrounded by fresh air and green plants gives you a little boost, I think.”

When Tyler isn’t tending to people and plants, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his fiancé, Lindsay, who he says is “smoking-smart.” He credits Lindsay for helping him build his confidence to take the leap of faith and purchase Vennix. Tyler also keeps busy with his two Golden Retriever puppies that run around the farm, Gracie Lou and Kobe Jack.

If you stop by Rooted by Keits, you’ll likely meet Gracie and Kobe and you might meet one of Tyler’s siblings or his parents, too, who all help out. After all, they’re all part of the roots of Rooted by Keits.