Houston's horticulturist retires after 28 years with parks department

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you've ever paused to examine a flower at a Houston park, or marveled at the landscape at one of Houston's public golf courses, then you've experienced the life's work of Dee Howell.

"I think they create such a calming effect and set that tone of relaxation," she said.

For more than half her life, Howell has been the horticulturalist for Houston's Parks Department, bringing up millions of plants in that time.

Now Howell is ready for a new season in her own life as she officially retires, after 28 years.