By Andrea K. Hammer
Part of the joy—and sense of renewal—of the season is watching local farms, farmers markets and garden centers explode with spring color and life.
Along Route 30, Joe’s Garden Center is the first one calling for a stop along the road as spring plants and fruit trees spread across the outdoor area each week. Inside, a massive greenhouse overflows with hanging baskets and a variety of vibrant plants. A full table displaying different coleus plants prompts visitors to ask the owner about their unique painterly quality and the other generous offerings, including a 20-year-old lemon tree.
“We need to start early to make the most of the season,” said owner Joe Fichetola III, who has vivid memories of working with his father during the 69-year history of his family business. Taking a trip down memory lane, he explained that several members of his family also operated other markets in the area. “My aunt runs Angelo’s,” he added, pointing down the road.
At Angelo’s Farm Market, the outdoor area is gradually filling up again. Small trees, which visitors can tuck in their trunks, are starting to flower. Flats of colorful spring flowers in front of the market invite passersby to scoop them up for immediate planting in their garden. Inside, fresh produce and products from local farmers are a welcome option for shoppers who prefer a personal touch instead of machine-packaged items from large chain stores.
Further afield, Bob’s Garden Center on the Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township is a 5-acre oasis that makes gardeners swoon all year long. With 30 greenhouses rapidly refilling the outdoor areas, gardeners interested in a jump on the planting season may already select premium options from a full variety of plants, shrubs, trees and flowers. Along with a massive area with colorful pots and garden ornaments, this center also offers an outstanding gift shop area and special events throughout the year.
Lang’s Garden Center in Linwood has a spiritual, Zen-like quality, allowing visitors to enjoy a sense of peace in various garden “rooms.” With each one designed on an intimate scale, garden lovers have the opportunity to explore manageable areas around the site, offering design inspiration to take back home. This garden center, potting shop and landscaper also offers educational workshops as well as special events for artists, ceramicists and others to display their work.
Ronnie’s Garden Center in Northfield allows visitors to wander around large groupings of plants in the exterior space. Many selections provide detailed information about the selections and optimum placements in personal gardens. Inside, visitors will also find a great selection of seeds as well as garden ornaments and gift items.
Bayview Garden Nurseries & Landscaping in Northfield is a family-owned and operated landscape design, installation and maintenance company providing personal attention. Outdoor displays of annuals, perennials, evergreens, trees, shrubs and seasonal plants are arranged with a strong design sensibility. Staff members also answer questions patiently as visitors explore the inviting indoor area.
To enhance the spring season and learn more, visit these outstanding farmers markets and garden centers, along with many others in the area.
Andrea K. Hammer has published articles in international publications.
