Open for business

Whether it’s through signage or sending a message through social media platforms, here’s how IGCs are letting customers know gardening isn’t canceled.


Julianne Mobilian

Published May 04, 2020
As the world transitions into spring, many retailers across the country have reminded customers that garden centers are still open for business. With the new social distancing guidelines in place, customers are flocking to their gardens now more than ever to find some respite from the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. Take a look at how a few IGCs have reminded customers that they can still celebrate the spring season and enjoy nature, no matter the climate.
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE BUSINESSES

Mayflowers Nursery & Garden Center

Elizabeth May, co-owner of Mayflowers Nursery & Garden Center, sent some photos of the IGC’s signage featuring spring blooms. Mayflowers Nursery & Garden Center is located in Canandaigua, New York, and opened for the season on April 4. Prior to opening, the IGC shared a lengthy Facebook post detailing the steps it would take in order to ensure customer and employee safety.

Tallahassee Nurseries

“Our garden center is open,” says Josh Olive, marketing director for Tallahassee Nurseries in Tallahassee, Florida. The IGC’s cottage gift shop is still open, but it’s a concierge service due its small size, he says. Tallahassee Nurseries is following suggested guidelines from the CDC, sanitizing throughout the day and closing at 4 p.m. to ensure there is time for cleaning. While open, the nursery asks customers to remain 6 feet away from each other and urges them to pay with their cards or through their accounts, instead of using cash. Additionally, it offers curbside pickup and delivery options.

Dutch Growers

This photo was submitted by Karen Vanduyvendyk, owner of Dutch Growers Home & Garden in Regina, Saskatchewan. Dutch Growers has been very active on its Instagram account, and the IGC has been sharing pickup information using the Story feature. Dutch Growers regularly shares photos of items for sale — such as succulents, containers and ornamental plants — which customers can purchase through its online shop.

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