Our Story

Our story began with a tree farm.

Red Oak Nurseries was started in 1965 by my grandfather, Jim Dusart. Although he was a carpenter by trade, he always had a deep love for trees, nature, and working the land. He began purchasing land little by little, eventually building what would become a 300-acre tree farm. He started by planting small trees, grafting his own varieties, and growing many from seed; laying the foundation for what Red Oak Nurseries would become.

During the 1970s and 1980s, my father, Tom, and his brother, Jim, worked as the landscaping crew. They helped expand the family business and brought Red Oak’s trees and plant material into landscapes throughout the area.

In 2010, I, Ben Dusart, created a new business called Dusart Design Group. I built the company on the foundation and experience established through Red Oak Nurseries. The two businesses were designed to work hand in hand and support one another. Red Oak Nurseries provided the trees, plants and horticultural knowledge. Dusart Design Group expanded the family’s services to include landscape design, installation, hardscaping, maintenance, grading and much more. Together, the businesses allowed the Dusart family to offer clients a complete landscape experience. From growing and selecting quality plant material to designing and creating the finished landscape, both businesses work together to bring a project to life.

Today, Red Oak Nurseries continues to carry on the vision my grandfather started more than 60 years ago. Since his passing, the family has continued to build upon his hard work, passion and love for trees and nature. Together, they continue the Dusart legacy and bring that same passion for the outdoors to each property and project we work on.

Dusart Design Group has grown into a full-service landscape company offering a wide range of outdoor services. Although the business has grown and evolved over the years, the foundation remains the same: family, quality workmanship, a passion for the outdoors, and a commitment to creating spaces that last.

What began with one man planting trees has grown into a family legacy that continues to shape landscapes throughout Central New York.