What Goes Into Our Plants
We grow as many plants from seed as we can, to ensure genetic diversity. This can take up to three years from seed to sell-able plant. We limit the use of chemicals, hand weeding our plants, and managing many pests with organic or natural methods.
Our plants are not forced with growth hormones, we use minimal pesticides in the nursery, and practice Integrated Pest Management. We do not use systemic pesticides or “neo-nics”. Our plants are safe for visiting bees, insects and wildlife.
We do not use growth hormones or extra fertilizer to push lush growth. We grow for healthy roots – this takes time and produces a plant less likely to have transplant shock.
Each native species has unique soil and watering requirements and is given individual attention to ensure it gets all the requirements it needs to thrive. We research and create a soil mix that is customized for each species.
We create our own signage, focusing on the role the plants play in the ecosystem, researching each plant and indicating its role in the ecosystem. This streamlines your plant selection process. Signs indicate pollinator, bird, and butterfly value, deer tolerance, and more.
We maintain display gardens on our property to help you see how natives behave in a garden setting. There’s a learning curve when it comes to native plants and we are happy to help you!
Much of our staff time involves helping customers learn more about native plants. Our staff are college graduates, many with degrees in horticulture or science. All are local residents and receive more than minimum wage.