By Melanie Radzicki McManus | Photo courtesy of C.Mae Photography
Business blossomed at local plant shops during the COVID pandemic, as people quickly beautified their indoor living and work spaces. While demand cooled in the post-COVID era, people are still seeking out plants, flowers, herbs and more at a higher rate than in the past.
Here in Wisconsin, an intriguing mix of plant shops can be found around the state, including the four below. Pop into these shops and see what catches your eye. You may end up scoring some colorful and intriguing finds for yourself, or even holiday gifts for your loved ones.
FORREST FARMS, TWIN LAKES
Always wanted to take a plant class, such as floral arranging, creating holiday wreaths, growing succulents or how to fashion a knock-out terrarium? Forrest Farms in Twin Lakes offers traveling plant classes in several southeastern Wisconsin cities, plus a few locales in northeastern Illinois. Head to the closest spot when your favored class is on the schedule.
If you have extra time, stop into their Twin Lakes store to scope out the goods. There are loads of lush plants for purchase, of course, plus vases, planters, potting soil, soaps, body oils, greeting cards, a candle bar, holiday décor and much more. Don’t forget to follow their Facebook page to catch various sales and specials.
Earlier this year, for example, anyone whose name started with a “T” – first or last — could stop in and receive a free mini plant.
Every year, Forrest Farms holds a Bouquets & Brays fundraiser for Solstice Sanctuary Hay Barn in Salem Lakes. The rescue and healing farm focuses on large animals, such as horses and donkeys. During the event, you’ll receive instructions on how to create your own flower crown or floral arrangement.
Afterward, stay and hang out with the Sanctuary animals.
NORTHWIND PERENNIAL FARM, BURLINGTON
Perennials make a great addition to any garden. They come back every year, which saves you money. Once mature, you can split them into new plants to move elsewhere or gift to a friend. And their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion.
Ready to buy some? Then consider a trip to Northwind Perennial Farm in Burlington. Located on a 10-acre parcel of land dominated by a spacious, red barn, the owners have been growing perennials there since 1991. In addition to selling popular plants such as lavender, hostas, coneflowers and decorative grasses, you may be able to score yarrow, hyssop, anemones, dianthus and prairie dropseed.
In the market for some garden art to enhance your yard? You’ll have plenty of options at Northwind. The business’ Garden Shop, tucked into the barn, contains local goods, garden accents, gifts, birdhouses and birdbaths, wrought iron pieces and glass ornaments. You’ll also find salvaged and restored items, such as tables and picture frames.
Build in extra time to explore after you’ve finished shopping. Paths wind throughout the business’ acreage, taking you past stunning display gardens, tranquil ponds and several intriguing old structures, including an outhouse with, yes, a crescent moon carved on the door. Keep an eye out for the cats and chickens that are typically wandering around.
A variety of classes and events are held at Northwind throughout the year, such as yoga, foraging, blade-sharpening and, of course, courses on creating a beautiful garden.
THE PLANT PEOPLE, GREEN BAY
This longtime Green Bay business is famed for its lush potted plants, succulents and cacti, garden bowls and terrariums. It’s also the place where locals head when they’re looking for orchids and the Louise Hanson Rose, a hardy, disease-resistant plant featuring rich red semi-double blooms.
If you’d like to learn more about plants and their care, The Plant People offer a large selection of classes, both public and private. Think floral arranging, houseplant care, make- and-take sessions, holiday decorating and even bow-making. You can also suggest a topic for a class and The Plant People may just offer it.
ALOE & JADE, SPOONER
Looking for an uncommon plant, and perhaps one you can pair with a fun gift? Then check out Aloe & Jade in Spooner. The shop, which bills itself as the largest plant boutique in northern Wisconsin, is known for carrying less-common plants, such as carnivorous pitcher plants, lithops — aka “butt plants,” which are tiny succulents that look like buttocks — and pickle plants, which are also succulents, but this time resembling gherkin pickles. They also carry unique planters and plush plant toys, which are soft, stuffed novelties designed as whimsical room décor.
If you have kids — or a sweet tooth — you’re in luck. Aloe & Jade is also home to a popular candy bar carrying a wide variety of sweets. If you’re even luckier, you’ll be in town when the boutique offers one of its specialty events, such as Ladies’ Night, which features sales, giveaways, appetizers, refreshments and more.
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