Local

Whenever I am speaking at Flower Shows or Garden Clubs I always stress the importance of doing business with a good local nursery. The big box stores are fine for rakes, leaf bags and the occasional bag of potting soil but when it comes to plant material you cannot beat a local nursery. Many of the staff are devoted plant people, “geeks” if you will. Many have worked and studied hard to achieve accreditations from industry groups like the Massachusetts Nursery and Landscape Association (shout out to my fellow MCHs and MCLPs).  Many are Master Gardeners. In other words, these are typically people who know plants. You want to get to know them. Get on their good side. Bring them brownies. Or beer. They have access to the plant material and they need to know your name. Once they realize that you are a true plant lover they might let you know when the delivery of that really cool plant is arriving. They may even put one aside for you.

I could not be successful in my business without the support of great local nurseries. One of my favorites is A. Thomas and Sons in Milton, MA.

a. thomas garden center, milton, ma

These guys are awesome and if you live in the area you owe it to yourself to check them out.

Maybe Amanda can help you with a bow for a wreath, Heather can create a beautiful winter container, Kevin can hook you up with a great tree, Frank can point you in the direction of just the right shrub, and Steve can make that last minute delivery happen. And Jim well, let’s just say that if you are having a bad day, Jim can be counted on to say something that will make you smile. Maybe that’s a survival skill he has learned after many years as a Scout leader!

Over the years the people at A. Thomas have become friends and I am so grateful for each one. I am reminded of Joe who delivered planters to a roof garden job and then helped me get them up to the 4th floor – all on a 95 degree day!

So thank you to all my friends at A. Thomas. Have a very Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and a restful winter. You’ve earned it!

Now if you’ll excuse me I have to make brownies.