Jason Childress
Meet Jason Childress
Landscape Designer
Jason Childress is a landscape designer at Varsity Landscaping & Grounds, bringing more than 20 years of experience and a strong educational foundation to the field of landscape design. A graduate of Virginia Tech, Jason earned a Bachelor of Arts in Horticulture with a concentration in Landscape Design. His education and professional experience provide him with the knowledge to help property owners transform outdoor spaces into attractive, functional environments that reflect their individual goals and preferences.
At Varsity Landscaping & Grounds, Jason contributes specialized knowledge of landscape design to projects that enhance the appearance, usability, and overall value of residential and commercial properties. He understands that effective landscaping involves more than selecting attractive plants or arranging outdoor features.
Education, Experience, and Landscape Design Expertise
Jason's academic background in horticulture provides a foundation for understanding plant characteristics, landscape composition, and the relationship between natural elements and the built environment. His concentration in landscape design at Virginia Tech helped prepare him to approach outdoor projects with an understanding of how thoughtful planning can influence the appearance and functionality of a property.
With more than two decades of experience in the landscaping industry, Jason brings a practical perspective to the design process. He recognizes that each property presents its own opportunities and challenges, from existing landscape features and available space to the owner's preferences and intended use of the outdoor environment.
Landscape design is Jason's primary area of expertise. His work focuses on helping property owners develop outdoor environments that combine attractive features with practical functionality. Whether a project involves refreshing existing planting beds, improving the layout of a yard, or planning a more comprehensive outdoor transformation, careful design helps establish a clear direction before installation begins.
A well-planned landscape can improve curb appeal, create visual interest, and make outdoor areas more enjoyable. Plant selection, placement, color, texture, and the arrangement of landscape elements all contribute to the final result. Jason's background in horticulture supports an informed approach to these decisions, helping ensure that plant choices and design elements work together cohesively.
He also understands the importance of considering factors such as seasonal changes, growing conditions, maintenance requirements, and the intended purpose of each outdoor area.
Designing Outdoor Spaces Around Individual Needs
Every property owner has a different vision for an ideal landscape. Some may want a welcoming front yard that creates a positive first impression, while others may prioritize a comfortable backyard for relaxing, entertaining, or spending time with family. Commercial property owners may focus on maintaining an attractive, professional appearance that complements their buildings and creates an inviting environment.
Jason's approach to landscape design recognizes these differences. Understanding the goals for an outdoor space is an important part of developing a plan that suits the property and the people who use it. A design should account for the owner's preferences while making practical use of the available space and existing features.
Thoughtful planning can also help coordinate landscaping with other outdoor improvements, including patios, walkways, retaining walls, and landscape lighting. When these elements are considered together, the result can feel more unified and intentional.
Supporting the Landscape Design Process
At Varsity Landscaping & Grounds, landscape design and consultation help customers move from an initial idea toward a clear plan for their property. Jason's experience and specialized knowledge support this process by helping identify possibilities, evaluate design considerations, and establish a direction that aligns with the customer's vision.
The company works with residential and commercial property owners throughout Roanoke, Smith Mountain Lake, and surrounding Virginia communities. Its landscaping services include landscape design, installation, planting, hardscaping, landscape lighting, drainage solutions, and ongoing landscape maintenance. Coordinating these services can help customers approach outdoor improvements with a more comprehensive understanding of their property's needs.
Planning is particularly valuable when a project includes multiple features or requires balancing appearance with everyday functionality. Considering the relationship between plants, outdoor structures, lighting, and maintenance needs can help create a landscape that feels cohesive rather than assembled from unrelated elements.
Varsity Landscaping & Grounds also uses computer design programs to help customers visualize proposed landscape plans before installation.
A Commitment to Thoughtful Landscaping
Jason's background reflects the importance of combining horticultural knowledge with practical design considerations. His education at Virginia Tech and more than 20 years of professional experience give him a foundation for evaluating the many details that contribute to a successful landscape.
Effective landscape design considers both immediate appearance and long-term performance. Plants grow and change with the seasons, outdoor spaces serve different purposes, and maintenance needs can influence which features are appropriate for a particular property.
As part of Varsity Landscaping & Grounds, Jason contributes to the company's focus on quality workmanship, personalized service, and outdoor improvements tailored to each customer's needs. The company's philosophy, "Landscaping Without Limits, Customer Service Without Compromise," reflects its emphasis on developing outdoor spaces while maintaining a customer-focused approach throughout the process.
Start Planning Your Landscape
Jason Childress combines his horticultural education, landscape design expertise, and extensive industry experience to help guide outdoor transformations at Varsity Landscaping & Grounds. His knowledge supports the planning of landscapes that balance visual appeal, functionality, and the unique characteristics of each property.
If you're ready to improve your outdoor space, contact Varsity Landscaping & Grounds to schedule an initial consultation. Share your ideas, discuss your property's needs, and explore how a professionally planned landscape can help bring your vision to life.
Testimonials
Varsity Landscaping & Grounds
"Thank you for your work! Our grass has never looked better."
- Michelle S., Roanoke, VA
"We are delighted to report that we did not get water in the basement this week. This is the first time we have not gotten water in the basement when the low water bridge flooded. It was the first test of Mike's landscaping in the yard and it was a huge relief to not have to spend hours in the basement cleaning up the mess."
- Delores P., Salem, VA
"Of the four landscaping companies we initially called for discussions and estimates, Varsity was the only one to return our call. Jason was assigned to stop by our lake house and go over our ‘vision’ with us. He was nothing short of accommodating, professional, fair, and fun to work with. He patiently allowed us to dream big and reassuringly brought our expectations in line with our checkbook. Living remotely from the site of construction brought us some anxiety, but Jason kept us well informed; continually sending photos and communicating progress and timeline. We hope to take our newly completed outdoor living space one step further in the future with an outdoor kitchen. Based on this experience, Varsity will be our first and only phone call."
- Randy and Kelly, Hardy, VA
"Thank you for your prompt and reliable work!"
- H. Hartman, Boones Mill, VA
"All the new landscaping along the fence line looks fabulous... you guys' do awesome work! Please be sure to tell Justin that we are pleased as always, even the fence post looks great. Thanks for your help, as always you've made us very pleased, you guys run a top shelf business!"
- T. Whyte, Salem, VA
"Jason has been a pleasure to work with. Many thanks for all of your assistance and beautiful work. I will be in touch about future projects."
- A. Grove, Roanoke, VA
"I just wanted to write and express my appreciation for the wonderful customer service I receive from Varsity Landscaping! I know I am not the only customer you have, but you and Justin certainly make me feel that I am. Justin has been great to work with on all my projects and requests. He is very quick to respond to my calls and in scheduling any work that I have requested. You are lucky to have him as an employee. Thanks again for being such a great company to work with. All your employees have been very courteous and pleasantly willing to help with any request or job I have. Any time I can offer a referral or a recommendation for you, please let me know."
- J. Lampman, Roanoke, VA
"I am so please with my "instant yard." Sod installation was definitely the right way to go and I was very pleased with the professional manner it was put in place. Thank you so much for a job well done."
- C. Perdue, Roanoke, VA
"Thanks so very much for all your help - you have been so much help to me and one that you can depend on. I have referred you to several people - hope you get some results."
- C. Burdette, Roanoke, VA
"I just wanted to let you know how pleased we are with your lighting design. It's a great product and your professionalism is second to none. The installation went very well and our home landscaping looks fantastic with outdoor lighting. In fact, it turned out better than we could've imagined. Thanks again for your expertise and superb customer service. We will definitely recommend you to others. Thanks again."
- J. Bayne, Roanoke, VA
"We want to thank you so very much for helping us out last weekend with the ice storm. With the church choir party scheduled we really needed it clean and your fellows did a great job. They worked hard. Thanks again."
- B. Ergle, Roanoke, VA
"Great Job! Thanks for all your assistance. I will call you for future plans."
- G. Mechlin, Roanoke, VA
"I just wanted to write and thank you myself for going the extra mile and picking up the added birch tree and planting it at Madison for no charge! That was great since we are on a limited budget which did not include a memorial birch! Thank you!! I am definitely keeping you guys in mind for next years mulching and whatever else I need. Thank you."
- A Sargeant, Roanoke, VA
"When I called, I was not sure if Varsity provided this service but felt that it was a good place to start. I received excellent customer service from Denise. She was helpful and professional. She was very pleasant. Within minutes Justin called me. What a jewel! He was very helpful and also was the epitome of good customer service. Justin has been to my house back in the spring and I should have complimented him then. I don't know what he makes, but he is deserving! I really appreciate the service that Abbi and I have received — the very best."
- L. Phillips, Roanoke, VA
"I'm so pleased with my little yard. Thanks so much for everything. Also, I was impressed with your team who did such nice work."
- N. Johnson, Roanoke, VA
"Thank you Mike for an excellent job and being so attentive in finding and installing 5 transition pieces."
- J. Ambros-Cosby, Roanoke, VA
"Your employees are to be commended! They were polite, professional, and did a great job. Thanks!"
- R. Hardin, Roanoke, VA
"The landscaping that your guys did last week looks great. As usual, we love it. Thanks!"
- L. Horner, Salem, VA
"Thank you for your prompt service. Varsity has always done good work. I would recommend your company to everyone. Thank you again."
-T. Rash, Roanoke, VA
"I can't tell you how pleased we are with the tree work you did. Everything is just as expected. On time, on price, guys were great, etc..."
- S. Martin, Roanoke, VA
"Just wanted to let you know how happy we are with the job done yesterday. Everything looks fantastic...the hill, the new shrubs, the footpath, the mulch! Joe and the crew were amazing as usual. They handled my minions following them through the windows and were so thorough with the prep work and finished product. It's been a while since we've been proud of the yard...glad we aren't the eyesore anymore. Can't wait for the grass to continue to fill in. I'm sure I will have a thousand more projects for you, but for now I'm going to just enjoy the view. Thanks again."
