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TESTIMONIALS


”…You do excellent work…”

I just wanted to drop you a quick note and tell how very pleased J. and I are with the work your crews did. They did an excellent job and were very professional the entire time. We have had a bunch of compliments from neighbors on not only how the landscaping turned out but also how well your crews worked. We are very pleased. You do excellent work.
J. & T. H.
Landfall, Williamsburg
July 2010


”…the results are spectacular…”

I send you John's thanks for the H & G cap. He got a big kick out of it and says it will be a reminder of very good relationships with you and all your staff. He really enjoyed working with all of you -- and the results are spectacular. We wish you holiday cheer and a very happy New Year
P.H.
Weems
December 2009


”…It's a very thoughtful plan…”

Just wanted to let you know that we're studying the plan and thinking about things, but mainly that we REALLY like it. It's a very thoughtful plan, the more I look at it the more depth and practicality I see. Thank you thank you thank you.
C.T.
Yorktown
November 2009


”…You and Philip have created something that years of students will love…”

I hope you've had a chance to wander past your garden this year. It's thriving and starting to fill in in beautiful ways. There's even a volunteer Beauty Berry that's popping in unexpectedly! From what I've heard, first graders are making it out there and a lot of last year's classmates feel like they have true ownership over it. One of them even came up to me last week and was psyched that his coral bell had doubled in size. You and Philip have created something that years of students will love. Thank you again.
Katie Schultz
The Matthew Whaley School
September 2009


”…wish my new neighbors had hired you!…”

Hi...wish my new neighbors had hired you! I'm not happy. Shhh...don't tell anyone...but they have 2 different colors of mulch. Ugg!
J.P.
Stonehouse, Toano
September 2009


”…You’ve definitely got fans in us!…”

Letter from a client:
"Dear Joe:
This letter is sincerely one of thanks for the care, concern, and effort that you have put into helping us transform our home. In our experience, it is rare to find companies and contractors that readily exhibit these characteristics, both genuinely and repeatedly, yet Hertzler & George has proven to us its – and your – sincerity. It goes without saying that we would be unable to make over the quality of our home life so abundantly and quickly without your professionalism, integrity, and neighborly touch. Thank you!
...The difference between the “before” and “after” set is profound, thanks to you, literally the best contractor with whom we have ever conducted business. We absolutely look forward to continued business with you and Hertzler & George in the future. You’ve definitely got fans in us!"
B.L.
Williamsburg
July 2009


”…people will no longer be going to the Taj Mahal. They'll just go to our place.”

Joe: I just got back from the Church and saw the progress. I have to tell you that from this point on people will no longer be going to the Taj Mahal. They'll just go to our place. It looks fabulous! Far beyond my wildest imagination. Every single person I've talked to has been so impressed. I know all of you have put your blood, sweat, and tears into it, and all I can say is thank you. Thank-you, thank-you, thank-you!
J.H.
Weems, Virginia
April 2009

Click here for a video about our work at Campbell Presbyterian Church in Weems, Virginia.


"...I was impressed again this year with your depth and breadth of knowledge..."

From the Virginia Cooperative Extension at Virginia Tech
Dear Ken,
Thank you for sharing your time and expertise with the WJCC Master Gardener 2009 Intern Class this past Thursday. You do an outstanding job of conveying the need for thoughtful application, storage and disposal of horticultural chemicals in the home garden. I am quite sure that the interns will READ THE LABEL before applying any pesticides to their home garden...Our gardens and our planet will be better for your sound teachings.
I was impressed again this year with your depth and breadth of knowledge and experience and your passion for your topic. We are very fortunate that community members like you are willing to give of themselves to educate the Master Gadener Interns of Willamsburg and James City County. We ae in your debt.
J. M., WJCC Master Gardener Class Manager
Virginia Cooperative Extension
March 2009


”…thank you for sharing your wonderful experiences…”

From the Virginia Cooperative Extension at Virginia Tech
Ken:
Thank you very much for your presentation at the 2009 Horticultural Extravaganza. I appreciate your time and support of this event.  I appreciate the effort that you made to develop and present the program to the individuals that are signed up to attend your class. Your passion for the subject and willingness to teach it is valuable to the continued success of these citizens.
James M. Orband, Extension Agent
Agriculture and Natural Resources
March 2009


“…first class operation...."

Phone call from a client:
“I'm selling my house and moving to South Carolina. After all these years of working with you I can say that you all are a first class operation. I will definitely refer you to the new owners. ”
L.L.
Piney Point
Williamsburg
MARCH 2009


"...truly listened to our goals..."

I met with Ken Thompson at my home to discuss a maintenance plan for our yard on March 9.  He truly listened to our goals and supported our desire to have a healthy, relatively maintenance-free lawn and provided me with a comprehensive, simple plan for Bermuda grass.
F.T.
Greensprings West, Williamsburg
March 2009


“…solid professionalism...."

Letter from a client:
“ Thanks to you and all the Hertzler & George people for solid professionalism and all the hard work.”
L.V.
Williamsburg
February 2009


“…can count on GreenGuard...."

Letter from a client: 
“ Hi! Joe: We plan to put our house on the market this spring - therefore, we need the lawn to looks it's best and I know I can count on GreenGuard. Thanks.” 
B.P. 
Lands End, Williamsburg
February 2009


“…great service...."

Letter from a client:
“ Joe: Thanks for the great service! The design is amazing and we can’t wait to see it built.”
D.&C. J.
Fords Colony
Williamsburg
November 2008


"...an A+ job all around..."

Joe: Just a short note to tell you how thrilled Donna and I are with the backyard project. We had pretty well convinced ourselves that there was no good alternative to secure the slope and provide a level walkway, but your creativity proved us wrong. The end result is way beyond our expectations. We were also very impressed with Mitch and his crew. Overall, an “A+” job all around. Many thanks.
J.S.
Kingsmill, Williamsburg, VA
September 2008


“…Your expertise and your dedication to the public interest are well known….”

Dear Joe: I want to express our thanks for your support of the York County Master Gardeners and the York County Extension Office. Your presentation “Landscaping Practices with the Environment In Mind” at the 2008 Fall Extravaganza today was an essential part of the successful day. Your enthusiasm and knowledge was a hit with the audience. Your expertise and your dedication to the public interest are well known and greatly appreciated by all concerned. Again, thank you for your support.
Jim Orband
York County Extension Agent
October 2008


“…a group of people who are alive with…passion…”

“On rare occasions one is blessed to work with a group of people who are alive with the energy that comes only to those who have a passion for what they do. Joe Hertzler and his team are one of those phenomena.”
Charles Blaha
April 2005

Charles Blaha was a client who became a mentor to me. His career as a Coast Guard commander had taught him how to lead people effectively. I was lucky enough to have a chance to learn from him for several years before he died.

One of the greatest comments he ever made to me pertained to his own landscape. He said, “When I go out to work in my yard, say, to mow the lawn, my plan is to mow the lawn but my objective is to keep the garden beautiful. So if I see some trash or some other little task that needs doing, I do it. When a company comes to mow the lawn, that is all they do...mow the lawn. Somehow, if you can get your organization to see my garden through my eyes, you will succeed.

I planted a bald cypress in his honor when I returned home from his funeral. It still stands and is growing stronger, just like his words of wisdom. - Joe Hertzler


"Joe is so good it’s scary! "

Joe is so good it’s scary!
-Comment from a client to a friend, August 2004


“…it was a pleasure doing business with Hertzler and George…”

Joe it has really been a pleasure working with H&G. Terry [Autry] is an outstanding employee and I hope he compensated accurately.  The commitment he demonstrated in the success of the project was right inline with the principles our company is working towards.  He listened to the customer and adapted to change without resistance, which continued to foster my confidence.  Thank you for taking pride and ownership in the project and I hope that all of your jobs have the same personal interest, which separates the monetary gain from the true success of a project.  The project is complete and it was a pleasure doing business with Hertzler and George.
J.H.
Safety/Environmental Coordinator
for a Manufacturing Plant in Williamsburg, VA
OCTOBER 2008


"...your friendship..."

Letter to Ken Thompson: "Ken: Thank-you for your help and for your friendship." D.W.
Williamsburg
November 2008

 


“…I’m so appreciative and impressed….”

“ Joe- Well, I can’t thank you enough. I’m just overwhelmed. I’m so appreciative and impressed by the work ethic of your crew.”
N. H.
Williamsburg
September 2008


“…so nice….”

“It is so nice to not worry about my trees and shrubs while I’m away. Ken is the best.”
L.D.
Kingsmill, Williamsburg
August 2008

This client is referring to Ken Thompson, a certified arborist, Master Gardener, and passionate environmentalist we are lucky enough to have on staff here at Hertzler & George GreenGuard.


“…you have provided to me over the past several years….”

Dear Joe: I have sold my house and will be relocating to New Jersey....I want to thank you and your team for the professional and very thorough service that you have provided to me over the past several years. Your attention to detail and your consistently excellent service have kept my lawn looking great. You have been a pleasure to deal with.
S.B.
Lands End, Williamsburg
July 2008


“…truly appreciate everyone’s contribution….”

“We really love the work and truly appreciate everyone’s contribution to the project. Your guys really knocked themselves out for us. They were prompt, professional, thorough and a pleasure to get to know.”
D. & C.S.
Port Anne, Williamsburg
July 2008


“…You have been a joy to work with…”

Dear Joe, Thank you so much for all of your hard work....You have been a joy to work with and I sing your praises to all I see. Thanks again and hope to see you soon.
G.L.
Williamsburg
June 2008


“…You are fortunate to have such dedicated staff members…”

“Joe, I want to tell you how very much I appreciated the year of steady and thoughtful work your team put into the Garden Day preparation. I was very proud of the property. I hope you have had the chance to see it. If not, please try to do it. Especially Terry Autry was a Godsend to me in the last two weeks. You are fortunate to have such dedicated staff members. All the best to you,”
T.B.
Williamsburg
April 2008


“…Thank you for your generosity and for caring about the military in our community…”

Dear Mr. Hertzler, Thank you for the donation of your time and the time of your lawn specialist manager, Mr. Krigbaum, to come out and evaluate our yard. Since [my husband] has been deployed to Iraq, the yard has been a real source of stress. Your offer to help us with the yard is deeply appreciated. When [my husband] called home last weekend I was able to share with him what had been done to the yard and what wonderful things were still to come, and he was happy and overwhelmed by the show of kindness and support. Thank you for your generosity and for caring about the military in our community. We deeply appreciate it. With warm regard,
L.G.
Williamsburg
April 2008


“…Thank you for all the hard work you put into helping me prepare for garden week..”

This was a thank you note sent to Terry Autry, our landscape maintenance foreman: “Dear Terry, Just a little thank you for all the hard work you put into helping me prepare for garden week. Your Tuesday morning triumph over the oak tags saved the day! I’ll… look forward to the Fall when we can add some interesting new plants. All the best and many thanks to you,”
T.B.
Williamsburg
April 2008


“…We keep getting compliments from passers-by….”

The following is from a GreenGuard lawn client: “Joe - Just wanted to call to tell you how great our lawn looks. We keep getting compliments from passers-by and neighbors and I thought I would pass them on to you. You guys are really doing a great job and we appreciate it. Thank you!”
Dan M.
Kingsmill
April 2008


“…no one does the job like GreenGuard….”

“Our yard looks wonderful. We’ve tried Green Thumb and The Lawn Doctor but no one does the job like GreenGuard. Thanks. Jon does a great job.”
Janice D.
Ford's Colony, Williamsburg
April 2008


“…reduced the amount of time and effort it takes to mow….I’m a believer!”

“The treatment has absolutely reduced the amount of time and effort it takes to mow the lawn. Because the growth is slowed, we cut less often and the volume is noticeably less. It now takes fewer stops to empty the bag. The grass looks as green and lush as it had before treatment was applied. I am a believer!”
Doug P.
Williamsburg
February 2008


“… we were intrigued and welcomed … by the environment you created….”

This is from an email I received the other day. The cleint is asking if we would be willing to take on a project in her area. What I found intriguing is the way she describes a garden we built several years ago.

Dear Mr. Hertzler,
Yesterday my husband and I attended a wonderful brunch at the home of [one of your clients]. From the moment we saw the stone light posts at the top of the driveway I was intrigued by what I would find as we meandered along the driveway. “Oh, they love nature too!” was a thought I had. And when we saw their home and the wonderful courtyard and plantings, we were just enthralled. Even in the dead of winter we were intrigued and welcomed ... by the environment you created.

Finally I found your website and absolutely love the designs and work that your company creates. But, we live in the Grafton area of Yorktown. I sure hope that we live within your range. Would you accept a project in this area? Thank you for your consideration,
C.T.
Grafton
February 2008


“…how we can have as wonderful a lawn as your folks have done for [our neighbor]….”

“This is ‘J.H.’ We have an interest in subscribing to your annual [GreenGuard Lawn Care] program at [our home in] Williamsburg....What I’m after is to have a one on one session with John Krigbaum with respect to the needs of our lawn and how we can have as wonderful a lawn as your folks have done for [our neighbor] across the street. Give me a call at....”
J.H.
Governor's Land, Williamsburg
December 2007


“…you all have so completely blown away those expectations, gone so far beyond them….”

“We are amazed by the terrace you’re building for us. My family and I keep going out on it, even though it’s freezing, and thinking how beautiful it is. The plants, the brickwork, the kitchen – all of it. You know, we had really high expectations going into this project with you, but you all have so completely blown away those expectations, gone so far beyond them, that we can’t thank you enough.”
J.H.
Kingsmill, Williamsburg
December 2007


“…would come work for Joe any day of the week….”

The following is from a former employee. It’s great to hear from people so long after they have moved on. Thanks for writing “C.T.” - Joe Hertzler
It’s been about 8 years since I worked at Green Guard. I think over the summer of 2000 was when I was there. I worked on the tree crew with “Hose"(never knew his real name I don’t think) and Matt, both of which moved on a while ago from what I heard.I was just talking with some coworkers about the amazing times I had working for Green Guard and wanted to drop you guys a line. I would work for Joe [Hertzler] any day of the week.


“…if you ever need a recommendation….”

“Joe - Enclosed is the balance for the project. We are very pleased with the way all has turned out. If you ever need a recommendation, we’d be happy to give one. Regards.”
L.N.
Governor's Land, Williamsburg
October 2007


“… the thoughtful attention you are giving me…”

This quote is from a customer on the GreenGuard side of the business: “Thank you and Jon and Ken for the thoughtful attention you are giving me....”
T.B.
Williamsburg
September 2007


“…house and its surroundings was truly like a phoenix rising from the ashes.”

“How can we thank you and your folks for the wonderful job you all did at the river. That house and its surroundings was truly like a phoenix rising from the ashes. We are blessed with a team of talented folks who help us get the picture into focus and we are extremely grateful....thank you for making your distinctive and beautiful mark....”
C.C.
Williamsburg
July 2007


“…your employees do such a nice job…”

This quote is from a customer on the GreenGuard side of the business: “Joe Hertzler + Staff, We love our yard – your employees do such a nice job to fertilize + maintain. We get compliments all the time on how good it looks. Thanks for a job well done.”
J.D.
Williamsburg
January 2007


“…just exquisite…”

This quote is from a customer on the GreenGuard side of the business: “I am calling to let you know that the lawn is more beautiful than ever this year. It’s just exquisite. Thank you so much for all you’ve done.”
E.F.
Williamsburg
December 2006


“an eye, an ear, and a desire…”

“Mr. Hertzler has an eye for landscape design, an ear for his customer’s wishes, and a desire to do the best job possible.”
L.O.
Queens Lake, Williamsburg
August 2004


“…excellent work, professional and prompt…”

“The job is complete and looks good. Last nights 1” of rain did not cause any problem. Your people do excellent work, professional and prompt in every way.”
R.C.
Governor's Land, Williamsburg
September 2006


“…we are delighted with the outcome…”

“We are delighted with the outcome of Joe’s landscaping recommendations for our home in Ford’s Colony. We have received many compliments - particularly on an entry courtyard (with small pool) which he suggested adding. Joe is fun to work with, and has always listened carefully to our ideas. His experience has given him unusual perspectives, and he provided novel insights on multiple occasions. Joe has an excellent support team which did a fine job of installing the plants and grass area. We also appreciate his willingness to provide advice occasionally by phone when questions on plant health or watering arise.”
L.V.
August 2006


“…how thankful we are….”

“The fellows who hung the swing got away before I could thank them. Would you tell them how very thankful we are and what a wonderful job they did. The swing looks terrific….And now I’m going to do something I’ve been waiting almost 3 ½ years to do: I’m going out to eat my lunch on my swing. And thank-you very much. We are quite pleased.”
G.M.
Williamsburg
August 2006


“…a ton of positive comments…”

“We’ve received a ton of positive comments on the work that you guys did - thanks again.”
T.H.
First Colony, James City County
August 2006


”…the results are beautiful and far exceeded our expectations…”

Mary & I are so please with the stone walls recently erected. Our idea to enhance our planting areas was turned into reality by you and your team. The results are beautiful and far exceeded our expectations. Thanks to Hertzler & George we have received several compliments for our jealous neighbors. "GREAT JOB".
V.A.
Ford's Colony, Williamsburg
May 2009


“…two fine guys….”

“Just wanted to let you know that Ken and Juan came by today. They are two fine guys. Did what they needed to do, and I am very grateful. Please let them know I appreciate their hard work.”
J.L.
Capitol Landing area, Williamsburg
August 2006


“I recommend Hertzler&George without reservation….”

“Joe Hertzler has solved a huge drainage problem in our front yard and in the process created a beautiful and welcoming courtyard.”

“My husband and I bought this house about five years ago and renovated it extensively. At that point, rainwater had been running downhill from the street toward the house virtually unrestricted for about 40 years. By the time our contractor got through protecting the foundation and, just this year, completing a detached garage, the former front yard had been wiped out.

In stages over the past four years, Joe has created a handsome brick walkway, incorporating a new retaining wall and drastically regrading the driveway. In the process he installed drains that capture and redirect impressive amounts of stormwater even during downpours. He laid an attractive dry “creekbed” of river stone along the front to channel rainwater off the walkway/patio. His hardscaping has created a framework of discrete areas where I can work at planting my vision of a “natural” landscape.

His mark is also on the back of the house, where he built a natural-stone walkway down to our little dock on Queen’s Lake. The stonework is a masterpiece.
Because I like to be involved, Joe gives me design choices, and we decide together what’s to be done. He and his employees, especially Terry Autry, are excellent at what they do. Knowing that they know me and what I like gives me the confidence that any new project we start is going to be sheer pleasure. I recommend Hertzler&George without reservation.”
M.C.
Queens Lake, Williamsburg
June 2006


“Thanks again….”

Thanks again for your great ideas and great service!
J.H.
December 2005


“You have made your mark on Charles City; be proud of yourself and your team….”

Great Job! Speaking of great jobs, Terry and his crew are doing it again......taking my breath away with the beauty of it all....that is.

Seeing those beautiful lilies go in today was as emotional for me as the day they planted the road trees. With everything blooming, it’s beginning to look like a botanical garden. You have such a vision for (our property) and it was one of my wisest decisions to put it in your hands. You have made your mark on Charles City; be proud of yourself and your team.
C.C.
Charles City County
April 2006


“Our house has been transformed….”

As you know, we could not be more pleased with the outcome. Our house has been transformed as a result of your vision and planning; your team’s execution of both completed the task to perfection. I know I taxed your patience on a few occasions but, overall, everything worked out!

Please convey our deepest thanks to all your team of workers, not only did they work extremely hard and at the highest level of craftsmanship, but they were unfailingly polite and pleasant. So, thanks again and be sure to use us as a reference.
K.
June 2005


“…Nice work by Terry and Mitch, as usual….”

“Joe, I didn’t look over the completed job until this morning, and I’m delighted! You were right about the grade, it’s just fine. Nice work by Terry and Mitch, as usual. Everything looks lovely, and they even cleaned up the driveway. Thanks very much.”
M.C.
Queens Lake, Williamsburg
January 2007


“…It was a pleasure doing business….”

“It was a pleasure doing business with Terry, Mitch and the helpers, who did a beautiful job.”
R.N.
Kingsmill, Williamsburg
May 2008


"...be proud of yourself and your team..."

You have such a vision for (our property) and it was one of my wisest decisions to put it in your hands.  You have made your mark on Charles City; be proud of yourself and your team.  Thanks so much, - C

Letter from a client to Joe Hertzler April 2006


“Our house has been transformed….”

As you know, we could not be more pleased with the outcome. Our house has been transformed as a result of your vision and planning; your team’s execution of both completed the task to perfection. I know I taxed your patience on a few occasions but, overall, everything worked out!

Please convey our deepest thanks to all your team of workers, not only did they work extremely hard and at the highest level of craftsmanship, but they were unfailingly polite and pleasant. So, thanks again and be sure to use us as a reference.
K.
June 2005


Hertzler & George

 is a design, build and maintenance firm in Williamsburg, Virginia dedicated to the development of extraordinary gardens and properties.

Contact Us

Hertzler & George

GreenGuard Associates, Inc

PO Box 457

Williamsburg, VA 23187-0457

tel: (757) 229-9668

Directions to the Office