Great soil starts with great people.
Meet the growers, gardeners, plant lovers, and pros behind every bag
Behind every bag of Royal Gold is a dedicated team of gardeners, scientists and professionals who take soil seriously (maybe, too seriously).
From mixing to packaging, everything happens in our state of the art facilities in Northern California and Upcountry South Carolina. We like to think that’s what gives our soil its soul, people who care as much about what goes into the bag as what grows out of it.
Tested by the professionals, trusted by the gardeners.
Our family of coco, soils and naturally derived fertilizers deliver consistent results across every scale of growing. From first-time gardeners to seasoned cultivators, each product is formulated with versatility, sustainability, and performance in mind, because we believe everyone deserves access to premium soil that works as hard as they do.
Get your hands in the good stuff.
I joined the Royal Gold family in 2023, but I’ve been in the gardening world for more than 30 years. I grew up in the Bay Area after starting out in Chicago, and that’s where I found my love for both music and horticulture. About eight years ago, my family and I moved to Southern California, and I’ve been rooted in the gardening community ever since. Before coming to Royal Gold, I managed a gardening store, so I know firsthand what it takes to keep one thriving. When I’m not connecting with customers, I’m usually walking the beach, surfing, or tending to my vegetable garden.
Southern California & Southwest Territories Product Representative
TOM BUTLER
Originally from New York, I’ve called Northern California home for over 30 years. Gardening, especially growing vegetables and cultivating succulents, has become a deep passion of mine. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and helping customers find the best soil solutions for their needs. When I’m not in the garden, I’m making memories with my family.
Key Accounts & West Coast Territory Manager
RICK ELLIOTT
After managing a horticulture supply store for almost three years, I joined the Royal Gold team in 2014. Since then, I’ve been covering the Midwest and East Coast territories. Based in Michigan, I enjoy spending as much time in the garden as possible during the spring and summer months. Gardening is a real passion of mine, and I like to try something new each season. I’m also an avid golfer and still play hockey in the wintertime.
Midwest/East Coast Territory Manager
ERIC MAXWELL
I’m an avid gardener and grower with 20 years of experience. Growing up in Michigan with a do-it-yourself mentality sparked a curiosity and love for growing just about anything. I’m also a passionate musician and concert goer, and I enjoy great food, long walks in the woods, and of course, soil science. After two decades in Humboldt County, I made the move east to Richmond, Virginia, where I’m excited to support you with all your Royal Gold questions and needs.
East Coast Territories Product Representative
MARKUS MESSINA
I grew up and graduated from college in western New York and moved to Chico in 2003. I was a manager at a hydro store for many years in Chico and Oroville before joining the Royal Gold team and have an extensive knowledge of the hydro industry. I love plants and gardening, hiking, running, music, and snowboarding.
Oregon, Northern California & Nevada Product Representative
AARON TREVINO
I’m a proud fifth-generation Oklahoman who studied Botany at the University of Oklahoma. Gardening has always been at the heart of what I do, and I enjoy making hot sauces from the produce we grow in our organic garden. I’ve also recently picked up golf and enjoy spending time outdoors, whether I’m on the course, working in the garden, or taking my mountain bike out for a spin. At home, I’m a devoted family man—happily married and proud father to a grown son.
Southeastern Territories Product Representative
ADRIAN MORGAN
I’ve been part of the Royal Gold team since 2016 and currently serve as Director of Sales for Royal Gold Potting Soil. As a lifelong gardener with a deep passion for plants and soil health, I combine both my professional expertise with a personal passion for plants to further gardeners and growers in their mission to succeed.
director of sales
Eric Kinnally
