Behind the Scenes with a Garden Center Owner

What makes your local garden center feel so special? Don’t you notice that there’s something magical about them? It’s kinda shocking how little we understand as consumers about all the effort that goes into getting plants to us and onto our windowsills. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes at the Garden Center that we don't know about. That's why I'm committed to having more people on this podcast to peel back the curtain of the horticulture industry and help us better understand how our plants get to us.

I'm excited to share my conversation with Jessie Jacobson of Tonkadale Greenhouse in Minnetonka, Minnesota. Jessie is an example of what a passionate multi-generational family business can look like.

In this episode, we learn:

• [04:38] What is the story behind Tonkadale Greenhouse?
• [08:37] Growing vs selling plants
• [12:03] How does the business keep up with modern times?
• [14:01] What are the mission, vision, and core values of Tonkadale?
• [15:27] Gift peace and joy this season with Wind River Chimes!
• [17:05] Give your houseplants the organic love they deserve with Espoma!
• [20:34] What does Jessie’s day look like as a garden center owner?
• [23:33] Ordering and planning in gardening
• [25:08] Why you should always visit an independent garden center
• [26:26] Seasonal revenue + challenges
• [30:25] Be a better low-maintenance plant parent with Crescent Garden TrueDrop Self-Watering Planters!
• [32:37] What keeps Jessie motivated? (aka the joy of gardening)
• [36:26] What advice can Jessie give to aspiring garden center owners?
• [41:20] What’s next for Tonkadale Greenhouse?
• [44:05] Where can you find Tonkadale on social media and onsite?

Mentioned in our conversation:

• What's Your Plant Parent Personality?
• Tonkadale Greenhouse

For a deeper dive into the industry of garden centers,

check out the full show notes and blog here!

Follow Jessie:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

YouTube

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Wind River Chimes

Visit windriverchimes.com and use code GROWINGJOY to receive free engraving on your chosen wind chimes.

Espoma Organic

Visit espoma.com to find your local Espoma dealer or check my Amazon storefront.

Crescent Garden

For a limited time only, head to growingjoywithmaria.com/crescentgarden and use code GROWJOY15 to curate your dream garden today. 

Follow Maria and Growing Joy:

Order my book: Growing Joy: The Plant Lover's Guide to Cultivating Happiness (and Plants) by Maria Failla, Illustrated by Samantha Leung

Join the Bloom and Grow Garden Party Community Platform & App AKA the plantiest and kindest corner of the internet! Get your FREE 2-week trial here!

Take the Plant Parent Personality Quiz (Get the perfect plants, projects and educational resources for YOUR Lifestyle)

Support Bloom and Grow Radio by becoming a Plant Friend on Patreon!

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