As I’m living this lockdown life, I’m finding ways of staying productive, like sprucing up my backyard patio. Gardening happens to be my great escape. This year, I discovered Amish Greenhouse Shopping for All My Gardening Needs.
While sheltering-at-home in March, my neighbor and I ventured down to Root’s Country Market in Manheim. Root’s Market is home to the oldest single family-run country market in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. With over 200 vendors, we shopped for annuals, perennials and ate lunch.
Standing in line to purchase a Grandiflora Rosebush, as the name implies a grand bloom, I spoke to a customer in line behind me. We talked about the individual care and attention needed for roses to thrive. But the best part of our conversation, did I know about an Amish Greenhouse nearby that sells annuals, baskets, and planters for much lower prices and a better selection than Roots?
The shopper insisted we look in her van at her purchases from an Amish Greenhouse. Margie, my neighbor, and I felt comfortable following her to see her haul. Here’s where “one picture is worth a thousand words,” the vehicle chockfull of great floral finds at low prices.
The kind and friendly stranger provided the address and phone number of the Amish Farm in Kirkwood. She suggested we call first to let the farmers know when we plan to visit. Since my car could not hold any more purchases from Root’s, we decided to visit the Stoltzfus Amish greenhouse later in the week.
Many know the Lancaster area not only as scenic rolling farmlands but also known as Pennsylvania Dutch County. This area, the tourist capital for all things Amish in Pennsylvania. Our visit to the Stoltzfus Farm by far the best ordinary people experience. Even the ride to the farm, passing many horses and buggies.
The Amish adhere to strict rules about not using modern technology. So if you telephone for their services, you have to leave a message about why your calling; then, they always return your call. If you’re looking for annuals, the Stoltzfus Greenhouses filled with every conceivable color of geraniums, beautiful hanging baskets, and planters is the place to shop; it’s worth the hour drive from Harrisburg.
East Earl, Pennsylvania, is not only home to Shady Maple, the most extensive buffet on the East Coast but more Amish Greenhouses. How about my cousin, Terri, whose mother died in March, wanted to dedicate a lush garden to her memory? We shopped at Wayside Greenhouse, and the lady in the car next to me suggested we go to Conestoga Valley and Black Creek Greenhouses, both in East Earl.
The local suggestion on Black Creek, get there early. I didn’t get to Black Creek on this trip but did venture over to Conestoga Nursery. The selection and pricing of their shrubs, excellent! Roadside shopping also a suggestion for crafts, perennials, and annuals; just bring cash.
Since my county turned yellow on Friday, I’m returning to work next week. I believe I’ve enjoyed being productive during this unprecedented time. My gardening will continue by extending the perennial area and eventually a veggie garden on our property’s back. I’m thankful for being about to spend more time with my family and enjoy our home.
As always, thank you for reading. Please remember to limit attending large social gatherings and wear that mask.
