In the Life of a Garden Centre - Fall Forward

One reflects on the past, often remembering times, places and events. Early memories of a farmer's market are firm in the mind of a child.

Often on Saturdays, a family trip was done to the south end of the city, past the perimeter highway to places in south St. Vital where houses were sparse. Access to this area was straight down St. Mary's Road, past large lots, often small cottage type houses and some farms. Excitement of going to the farmers market in the spring through to the fall months was always a treat. The site of roadside stands filled with flowers in spring later transformed to summer vegetables then transitioning to the finale – the pumpkin pile; ready for selecting. The makeshift tables, the scent of soil, the greenhouse cat (yes, there is always a greenhouse cat!) and the friendliness of these family businesses offering their products.

Nowadays, those farmers' market stands are now called garden centres. Many of them owned or run by second and third generation families, or those with a passionate green thumb. The independent garden centres continue the business of growing.

Over the decades, the image of a garden centre has evolved. Locations have remained the same but as years lengthened, their footprints have changed. The green aspect of annual flowers, perennials, trees and shrubs with offerings of from hanging baskets to everything gardening continues. Trends in the gardening world are revealed through each establishment's personality and creativity.

What has changed? These garden centres are now "one stop shop" boutique-ish markets. Not just gardening destinations. These centres now possess full shopping experiences. Upon entering a garden centre, would you expect to see home décor, fashion, and gourmet? Most folks would not. 

As the seasons progress, centres change along in stride. Where are the plants? No worries, garden centres still have offerings of tropical plants as temperatures dip and gardening does not happen outside anymore. Tropical selections remain for patrons who desire to keep greenery growing indoors, accenting interior look, or improving air quality.

It is the third quarter season; fall, where the garden centres feature displays of colorful garden mums and cool temperature loving plants. Creating events such as mini mazes or pumpkin patches for family's activities become the focus for garden centers. Picking out the perfect pumpkin is fun!

Then another change begins. Temperatures drop further. The operating footprint of some greenhouses may minimize as the greenhouse cats cozy up to warm spots. Some centers close for this season while others come alive again and transform into wondrous displays for the festive holiday - Christmas.

The transformation does not happen overnight. In actuality the Christmas displays are created within condensed timeframe of a few weeks when the change actually begins. There is a stimulus amongst staff and all when the announcement "let's begin" is spoken. Before the trees, trimmings and displays area created the ideas for everything are often made a year ahead.  Well planned, the shop interiors are made over. Often the change comes with a different layout, a different feel and most definitely, a different look. From ceiling to floors, the displays lead you from theme to theme engaging young to aged.  Checking into activities, most centres offer classes for all ages with creating interior and exterior arrangements. Alternative events would be Open Houses, sleigh rides, photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, and even focusing on events such as "Ladies Night".

Garden centres have come a long way from the road side market. Creativity in re-inventing and developing is what a garden centre does. Gardens are extensions of our homes… so the mix works.

Boxes are stacked, ready to be unpacked and carefully placed. Space being opened in anticipation of the fresh cut trees arriving in November, and lights are tested for creating an outdoor light display.

A memory in the making must be shared. Just the other day a family wandered in amongst the beginning of the re-setting and placing of the trees before decorating could begin. A small whispered voice was heard: "mom, it's starting!" A big smile … yes… that's what it is all about. An experience, a memory.

Setting up the displays at St. Mary's Nursery & Garden Centre has begun. Often referred to as a "hidden gem of a Christmas tradition garden centre", it is a must-see location.

St. Mary's Nursery launches it "Christmas Tradition" annually just after Remembrance Day – Saturday Nov 12th, 2017 at 2901 St. Mary's Road (2km south of the Perimeter) or visit them online at www.stmarysnurseryandgardencentre.ca