Why Windsor Essex County Local Garden Centers Are Your Best Choice Over Big Box Stores
- garantgreens
- Mar 10
- 11 min read
Updated: Mar 23
In the charming Windsor-Essex County, gardening isn’t just a hobby; it’s a cherished tradition that brings people together. Today, the choice between local garden centers and big box stores has a profound impact, shaping not only your gardening experience but also the livelihood of your community. This post explores why supporting local garden centers is vital, showcasing their contributions through community ties, superior products, and the personalized service that keeps garden enthusiasts coming back.
What Garden Centers to Look For in Your Community?
When selecting a local garden center in Windsor-Essex County, it is essential to choose those that offer quality plants, diverse garden supplies, and knowledgeable staff. Here are a few standout options:
Address: 890 County Road 8 Ruscom Station N0R 1R0 &
The Downtown Windsor Farmers Market Saturdays April- October
Established in 2020 we have become known for its selection of annuals, perennials, and a variety of heirloom tomato, vegetable & herb plants, this family-owned gem excels in All Natural & Organic Fertilizers. From Worm Castings to Aerated Compost Teas, Organic Feather Meal and everything in between. The staff not only helps you select plants but also provides tips tailored to your garden's conditions.
Find us at our home location or at our home away from home Every Saturday for all your plants and fertilizer needs at
The Downtown Windsor Farmers Market
Address: Pelissier St. &, Maiden Ln W, Windsor, ON N9A 4K9
Downtown Windsor Farmers Market April-October Address: 2465 ON-3, Oldcastle, ON N0R 1L0
Flora Gardens is a greenhouse business growing plants for sale directly to the public; it is located on the outskirts of Windsor on Hwy #3, just east of Walker Road, in Oldcastle (click on "Find Us" on the left of this page).
Our small family business was started by the late Stephen Pap, who built his first greenhouse on the site in 1956; it is still in use. In 1968, Steve’s daughter, Maria, joined the business and, 16 years later, took over as owner. We are very proud of our personal service and knowledgeable staff.
We are open every day, year around, except for the week between Christmas and New Year’s. We have potted plants, most of the usual bedding plants, and a wide assortment of perennials all the way into the fall; fresh herbs all year round. We make wreaths and grave blankets in the fall.
We grow 95% of the plants we sell. We grow the best varieties we can find, based on our own experience, the recommendations of research experts, and the recommendation of our customers.
We have exciting new plants every year, many of which are not available elsewhere
Address: 2190 Seacliff Dr W., Kingsville, Ontario, N9Y 2N5
"Sunrise Farms has been in business for 3 generations. We strive to provide fresh produce in a family-friendly environment. My grandparents started this business with hard work and a dream and my parents brought it to where it is today with that same focus. My brother and I hope to carry on in their footsteps to provide our community with quality, home grown produce at a fair price. We grow as much of our own produce as possible and source the rest from local farms. We offer locally made products such as honey, eggs, maple syrup, hamburgers and sausages, and more. We invite you to stop by and say hello. We hope that you will feel the love from the moment you arrive. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Address: 7940 Collison Side Rd, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0
Providing locally grown vegetables and flowers since 1973. Bouchard Gardens is located in Harrow, Ont
A family owned and operated business who strive to bring you the best of locally grown directly from their farm. This is a must stop vendor at The Downtown Windsor Farmers Market and also directly at the farm in Harrow.
Address: 2078 Talbot Rd, Kingsville, ON N8H 4G1
Capogna Flowers has a rich history in Essex County. The farm was founded in the early 1970’s by Sam and Vicky Capogna as a past time. Coming from Italy in 1954, both Sam and Vicky were accustomed to a farming way of life.
The initial intent was to open a part time bedding plant business for family and friends to share their passion for flowers. The six week flower season in May, quickly grew to a spring and summer long growing season. The Capogna’s also grew peaches, plums, pears, apples and melons on their eight acre farm, all while raising three children. Their hard work quickly filtered through to their children and grand children who all worked on the farm (some more than others).
Eventually, Ann Capogna and son Andrew expanded the business to what it is today.
Wheat + Thistle was established when local husband duo, Matthew + Pierre decided it was time to grow for themselves. The traditional corporate lifestyle was no longer invigorating or inspiring them and they knew it was time to make a change. In December 2020, at the height of the global pandemic, during a time where the world was spending more time at home, the idea for their online boutique blossomed into fruition.
With a focus on the greener things in life such as houseplants, florals and carefully curated home decor pieces, this dynamic pairing is excited for you to welcome a calming energy into your home
Dunn Tree Farm & Nursery.
Address: 2421 Myers Rd, South Woodslee, ON N0R 1V0
located in the heart of South Woodslee, this charming family owned and operated tree and plant nursery is a hidden gem. Leo & Pauleen work hard to bring you locally grown nursery stock at fair prices. Always there to greet you with a smile and help you fill your garden without breaking the bank.
Address: 702 Mersea Rd 6, Leamington, ON N8H 3V8
Peanut Centre Nursery is located on the corner of Highway 77 & Mersea Rd 6, just north of Leamington, Ontario, in what was formerly known as the hamlet of 'Peanut Centre'. The rich soil was prime for peanut growing and still is today for growing quality nursery stock.
For over 40 years, Peanut Centre Nursery has been providing quality plants to Windsor, Essex County, and surrounding areas. Established in 1973 by Ted & Josephine DeGoey, the farm changed from tomatoes to nursery stock, row by row. On the weekends, Ted would load up his wagon and truck and drive to the newly established subdivision that were popping up everywhere and sell his shrubs, even offering planting services.
Peanut Centre Nursery has evolved from a small cold frame greenhouse and 4 acres of field grown nursery stock to a full-service garden centre boasting a large perennial growing greenhouse and 8 acres of quality trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, landscape boulders, mulches, soils & so much more.
Stephen continues to grow nursery stock and provide installation services, while his wife Katherine manages the retail garden centre.
Address: 2269 Front Road North R.R. #3, Amherstburg, ON N9V 3R3
A lot of nurturing goes into growing healthy vibrant plants and this tender loving care is firmly rooted in the owner of the business, Ann Bondy.
Born and raised on a farm, mother of 9 children, a dedicated farmer till this day, Ann Bondy knows a thing or two about hard work. As a result, her nursery has been a staple in the industry over the past 35 years and counting!
Her dedication towards excellence has been passed along to her family and together they share the fruits of their labour with the community
Address: 820 N Talbot Rd, Windsor, ON N9G 1M7
"Orchard Farm Nursery Ltd. aka "Klinck's Nursery" has been serving the Windsor area for over 65 years. We specialize in top quality perennials & ornamental grasses, flowering trees & shrubs, small fruit, Japanese maples and dwarf & ornamental conifers. Our plants are displayed in a unique park-like setting among labelled display gardens. The business first began as a fruit & vegetable farm operated by Edith & Harold Klinck & family from 1940-1990. The nursery & landscaping business was founded by well-known horticulturalist Donald Klinck in 1957. After Don's sudden passing in 1981, his wife Joan operated the garden centre until the torch was passed to Karl Klinck in 1995- the same year we moved to our current location."
Address: 7010 ON-3, Maidstone, ON N0R 1K0
Nestled in the heart of Windsor-Essex County’s agricultural landscape in Maidstone, Ontario, Maidstone Tree Farm & Garden Centre is a family-owned and operated jewel with over two decades of passion and expertise in horticulture.
Landscapers, green thumbs, and garden enthusiasts will find the best selection and variety of perennials, shrubs, evergreens, and eye-catching ornamental trees, all showcased within the natural charm only a tree farm setting can provide.
Address: 1911 Seacliff Dr, Kingsville, ON N9Y 2N3
Business was blooming and Anna’s Flowers officially opened its doors at 1911 Seacliff Drive in Kingsville, where it still remains today. From a modest beginning to a full plant and flower showroom that spans over 30,000 square feet. Anna fondly remembers their daughter Marlene at the fruit stand, at only four years old helping her parents sell produce and flowers along with her big brothers, Albert and Rudy.
44 years and 4 generations later, Anna’s Flowers is responsible for growing and retailing over 4 acres and more than 10,000 varieties of flowers and plants, as well as a tasty selection of local produce and specialty food products. Anna’s also carries seasonal home and garden décor, hand-crafted and customized planters, and always the latest trends in gardening. A wide variety of carefully selected health and wellness products, which are sourced locally whenever possible, have also been added to the product line-up.
Address: 3641 County Road, 31 Albuna Townline, Ruthven, ON N0P 2G0
It all started with an idea ... Selling small evergreens at the road, and now all these years later it’s become a trusted landscape landmark where clients become long time friends. Our reputation was built by always giving our best, and always standing behind our work.
Bringing concepts to reality, and transformations you only ever dreamed of as you peel through House & Home, or fill your board on Houzz & Pinterest... We take the time to make sure we understand what you want and deliver the solution that's just right for you.
Address: 4481 Alma St, Amherstburg, ON N9V 0C8
Paradise Nursery and Garden Centre is a family-owned company that was first established in 1997, when brothers Danny and Mario Di Nardo, decided to begin a business that would help individuals create beautiful landscapes for their homes.
Over the past years, we have expanded our selections of products in order to give our valued customers more variety, allowing them to choose items that suit their personal tastes.
We take great pride in the products and services that we provide, and we feel that it is a great honour when individuals decide to shop with us. We hope that you will come visit us and see what we have to offer you.
Address: 585 Seacliff Dr, Kingsville, ON N9Y 2K6
Cindy’s story began in 1989 as a modest flower stand, founded by Ken and Cindy Martin. In 2019, after years of dedicated service, Ken retired, passing the torch to his nephew, Jason, and his wife, Tisha. The transition marked the beginning of a new era for Cindy’s Home and Garden.
Under the ownership of Jason and Tisha, Cindy’s expanded with the creation of Cindy’s Boutique, a haven for beautiful clothing, accessories, and more. The gift shop itself offers a wide range of products for every occasion, including spa items, home décor, and unique gifts. For those who struggle to choose, the Garden Centre beckons, offering frost-resistant pots, outdoor accessories, and a lush selection of seasonal plants.
Address: 18725 Tecumseh Rd, Tilbury, ON N0P 2L0
Jardins Boardwalk gardens was established in 1987 to complement a then young landscape design-build company to grow it's own nursery stock. On 16 acres of rich black loam, it was an ideal site to eventually have field grown shrubs, container nursery stock, perennials, annuals and even aquatic plants. By 2006 the company bloomed to having 2 garden centres, 3 landscape crews, a maintenance crew and an irrigation division. The financial crisis of 2008 created challenges and the nursery slowly became a Market Garden offering fresh picked vegetables and boasts the sweetest sweet corn in the area all trying to grow as organically as possible. In 2018, Honey Bee production started and pure 100% “BOARDWALK” honey is available. With the newest addition of an outdoor kitchen with an Italian imported wood fired pizza over, an events centre is up and coming offering Field to Fork culinary experiences. Stroll through the beautiful gardens, listen to a bubbling water feature or a rustling 50 foot long waterfall all while enjoying thousands of flowers. Pick strawberries from vertical gardens or tomatoes from trellises – savour them right there….nobody is watching
Visiting these local centers enriches your gardening knowledge while connecting you to high-quality regional plants that large retailers often overlook.
The Benefits of Supporting Local Businesses
Opting for local garden centers offers numerous advantages beyond the plants themselves. Here are some substantial reasons to shop local in Windsor-Essex County:
Quality Over Quantity: Local centers tend to stock healthier plants that are better suited for the area's climate. Studies indicate that locally grown plants have a 30% higher survival rate compared to those from big box stores, ensuring your garden thrives.
Expert Knowledge and Guidance: Passionate gardeners staff local centers, providing tailored advice and sharing helpful gardening techniques. This level of knowledge often results in a 25% more successful gardening experience according to customer surveys, especially among novice gardeners.
Community Connection: Choosing local businesses fosters community bonds. This approach not only enhances local identity but also empowers residents. Research shows that for every $100 spent at local businesses, roughly $68 stays in the community compared to just $43 when spent at national chains.
Sustainable Practices: Many local centers prioritize sustainability by using organic practices and promoting native plants. This effort leads to healthier ecosystems and can attract 50% more beneficial insects, aiding local biodiversity and plant health.
Supporting local businesses keeps your money within the community, bolstering the local economy and culture.
What Happens to Your Money When You Shop at Big Box Stores?
Understanding the broader consequences of shopping at big box stores is essential. While they may seem convenient, your dollar has a far-reaching impact:
Limited Economic Benefit: A large share of money spent at big box retailers exits the local economy. Approximately 70% of that money supports corporate profits rather than community initiatives, reducing economic vitality.
Job Losses and Reduction of Local Jobs: Each purchase at a big-box store can contribute to local business decline. The average community loses about 30% of its small businesses in the aftermath of a large retailer entering the market. Each local business generates vital employment opportunities, enhancing local job diversity.
Less Community Support: Big box stores often focus on profit maximization rather than community involvement. This translates to diminished support for local charities, schools, and events that foster community well-being.
Opting for local garden centers means investing directly in your community, enhancing economic health and local prosperity.
My Experience with Local Plant Shopping
As a gardening enthusiasts, most excursions to local garden centers have revealed an inviting atmosphere and genuine service. On the search for the perfect tomato plant, You need to check out The Downtown Windsor Farmers Market where vibrant displays and the sound of enthusiastic gardening discussions captivated me.
Shopping at a local garden center turns a simple errand into something meaningful. Each plant purchased feels like a connection to the community's spirit and dedication to nurturing the land. This experience highlights the importance of supporting local artisans and farmers, who share a mutual goal—creating a sustainable and beautiful environment.
Embracing Local Garden Centers in Your Gardening Journey
Choosing local garden centers over big box retailers in Windsor-Essex County comes with countless benefits. You not only bolster the local economy but also deepen connections within your community and gain valuable knowledge from dedicated staff.
As you embark on your gardening adventure, remember the impact of your choices. Each visit to a local garden center is a step toward fostering sustainable ecosystems and supporting the unique character of Windsor-Essex County. So, the next time you're considering where to buy your plants, think local. Embrace community gardening and experience the joy of contributing to your surroundings, one plant at a time. Let your gardening journey be about more than cultivating plants—it's about building relationships and nurturing your community.
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