As I live this lockdown life, I’m finding ways to stay 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 to Root’s Country Market in Manheim. Root’s Market is home to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania’s oldest single-family-run country market. With over 200 vendors, we shopped for annuals and 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 was that I knew about an Amish Greenhouse nearby that sells annuals, baskets, and planters for much lower prices and in a better selection than Roots.
The shopper insisted we look in her van at her purchases from an Amish Greenhouse. My neighbor Margie and I felt comfortable following her and seeing her haul. Here is where “one picture is worth a thousand words,” the vehicle chockful 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 is the tourist capital for all things Amish in Pennsylvania. Our visit to the Stoltzfus Farm was the best ordinary people’s 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 must leave a message about why you are calling; 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’s drive from Harrisburg.
East Earl, Pennsylvania, is home to Shady Maple, the most extensive buffet on the East Coast, and more Amish Greenhouses. How about cousin Terri, whose mother died in March, who wanted to dedicate a lush garden to her memory? We sipped 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 is to get there early. I didn’t go to Black Creek on this trip but ventured to Conestoga Nursery. Their herbs are excellent! , and their selection and pricing are excellent! Roadside shopping is also a suggestion for crafts, perennials, and annuals; bring cash.
Since my county turned yellow on Friday, I’m returning to work next week. I’ve enjoyed being productive during this unprecedented time. My growing ill continues by extending the perennial area and eventually creating a veggie garden on our property’s back. I’m thankful to spend more time with my family and enjoy our home.
As always, thank you for reading. Please remember to limit your attendance at large social gatherings and wear that mask.
