About Toddy T
Meet the guy that makes the bees swoon and the flowers bloom.
Meet Your Consultant
Hi, I’m Todd Testerman, a native plant–focused garden consultant and owner of Edaphic Garden Consulting.
I help homeowners in central Connecticut turn ordinary yards into resilient, beautiful gardens using native plants and a soil-first, science-based approach. If you know you want “something better than lawn and mulch” but don’t know where to start, that’s where I come in.
A big ol nerd.
I hold a PhD in microbiology from the University of Connecticut, where my work focused on how living communities respond to their environment. That background shapes how I see gardens: as systems of soil, plants, water, microbes, insects, and people all interacting. In practice, it means I care a lot about matching plants to the actual conditions on your site and explaining choices in plain language, not jargon.
When we work together, I’ll walk your property with you, look closely at light, soil, drainage, and existing plants, and ask about your goals, style, and how much time you realistically want to spend on maintenance. From there, I create practical, phased recommendations—which areas to tackle first, which plants are best suited for your site, and how to gradually build structure, color, and wildlife value over time.
Design Philosophy
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Ecological richness – layered plantings, long seasons of bloom, habitat for pollinators and birds
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Clear “cues to care” – neat edges, paths, and intentional structure so gardens read as cared-for, not overgrown
My goal is to help you create a yard that feels like you, works with your property, and quietly supports more life—without demanding every spare weekend to maintain.
Native Plants
We specialize in sourcing native plants that suit your goals, promoting biodiversity and sustainability while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your garden.
Site Consultations
Enjoy personalized site consultations that simplify your gardening journey with a clear, phased plan that meets your objectives without overwhelming you.
Wildlife Gardens
Our gardens not only serve as a beautiful backdrop but also create a sanctuary for pollinators and local wildlife, balancing wild nature with intentional design.
Our Vision
Edaphic Garden Consulting seeks to empower homeowners by making gardening an enjoyable experience through hands-on guidance, innovative designs, and a strong belief in science-based solutions. By promoting the use of native plants and providing actionable steps in the process, we aim to create harmonious outdoor spaces that flourish naturally and contribute positively to the local ecosystem. Our mission is to transform ordinary yards into extraordinary gardens full of life, beauty, and sustainability, ensuring they are enjoyable for years to come.
We emphasize a soil-first methodology, blending scientific principles with a rustic charm to achieve gardens that thrive with native flora and attract local wildlife.