While you're doing your holiday shopping, be sure to check out six of Colorado Springs' locally owned and operated garden centers. While all of these stores are sources for quality garden tools and supplies, they also have plenty of unusual gift options. If you can't decide, consider a gift certificate.
I will go to this garden to see what treasures can be found. I was not disappointed as there are so many great options for gifts.
Harding Kindergarten, 721 N. Powers Blvd. You will definitely feel the holiday spirit when you enter the store. The signs of the season are many and beautiful. In addition to holiday decorations, Harding's Nursery offers a wide selection of wreaths, wreaths, and centerpieces.
• Phelan Gardens, 4955 Austin Bluffs Parkway. This is the perfect place to order bare root fruit and ornamental trees. Plants are available in the last two weeks of March. The advantage of pre-ordering is the large selection of varieties, including 10 different apples, three types of pears, and many other fruits. Ornamental plants include hawthorn, maple and crabapple.
• Good Earth Garden Center, 1330 N. Walnut St. Lots of holiday cheer here. As I walked through the store, I was struck by the wonderful sound of water fountains on the counter and free standing. They have a wide variety of ornamental trees. Garden decorations are available in many styles and materials.
• Summerland Gardens, 806 Arcturus Drive. Summerland offers a wide range of indoor plants. Trees of particular interest, such as rare species and bonsai trees, are gift choices. Notable rare plants include the Golden Goddess Philodendron, a stunning houseplant with dark foliage, and tea bushes that grow well indoors. The Bonsai group includes tropical gardens (Flower Bonsai).
• Spencer's Lawn & Garden, 1430 Tejon Street. Mecca for holiday shopping. This year, be sure to visit the basement of the old candy store that was founded in the 1950s. During my visit, a display of very colorful and unusual ceramic bird feeders caught my eye. There are many painted pots, birdhouses, and garden ornaments.
• Rex Garden Center, 1827 Wynte Street. Rex offers a wide range of indoor plants and pots, from small to large. I was particularly impressed by the colorful sweaters and chains. Special plant supports for tall or climbing houseplants can take your browsing in new directions.
Enjoy shopping and shopping local!
If you have any questions about the park, please email Csumg2@elpasoco.com. For more gardening information, please "like" our Facebook page: facebook.com/ColoradoMasterGardeners.EPC.
