Bayer's Garden Shop to permanently close

Bayer's Garden Shop is permanently closing its doors at the end of the month, citing "dramatic increases in operating costs, combined with a staffing shortage." With two locations in the St. Louis area, the garden center spanned three generations of family ownership over 81 years.

In a June 6 press release, the IGC announced it will close permanently on June 30.

The company thanked its customers, adding, "So stop on by with those unused gift certificates, say goodbye, and own a piece of Bayer's Garden Shop history."

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, customers flocked to the shop in Lindenwood Park on Tuesday, the day after the company announced its plans to close.

Loyal customers and former employees also took to the company's Facebook page to share their favorite memories of the garden center.

"A little piece of my heart will be closing down with you guys. Thank you for 81 years of helping customers like me fall in love gardening. You will be sorely missed," said one customer.

"Oh, man. Bayer’s is like home away from home for me. So much nostalgia at the Hampton location. Thanks for all of the years, plants, bulbs, pumpkins, Christmas trees, and birdseed, and for such a fantastic team of employees. Frank and Dale (and Herb, rest in peace), you guys have been the best part of every shopping experience. Thank you," said another.

And, "So sorry to hear this. Worked there for a few years Ron Bayer was the best person I’ve worked for. Everyone I worked with where like family. The whole family are such great people," said one former employee.