Jason from Fraser Valley Rose Farm recently had the pleasure of touring Fruits and Shoots Plant Farm in Chilliwack, where he was hosted by Jack, a passionate plantsman with a background in landscaping and design. This nursery offers a distinct approach to plant cultivation, combining ornamental expertise with edible gardening, all while prioritizing sustainability and biodiversity. The visit provided a glimpse into Jack’s philosophy, innovative practices, and commitment to creating inspiring landscapes.
A Designer’s Approach to Plant Nursery
Jack’s journey into the nursery industry is rooted in his landscaping background. Initially growing plants to fulfill design needs, he later transitioned to retail sales. This unique perspective informs his selection of plants, focusing on those with long-term landscape appeal rather than just immediate visual impact. Jack emphasizes the importance of diversity in plant offerings, lamenting the industry’s trend toward compact, quick-blooming varieties that cater primarily to peak retail seasons.
One standout example is Jack’s focus on the natural beauty of large, mature plants like Echinacea varieties that grow tall and stately. These plants, while less convenient for shipping, offer unparalleled charm in a landscape, particularly when paired with ornamental grasses.
A Nursery That Educates and Inspires
The layout and design of the nursery reflect Jack’s design expertise. Areas are themed to showcase plant pairings that thrive together, such as a drought-tolerant section featuring Stachys, Achillea, and Nepeta. This approach not only makes the nursery visually appealing but also educates visitors on how to create cohesive, functional gardens. Jack highlights the importance of teaching customers to appreciate subtler plant characteristics, like the structural beauty of spent blooms, a concept gaining popularity in European gardening.
Bridging Ornamentals and Edibles
Jack’s passion extends to edible gardening, which he integrates seamlessly with ornamental designs. His philosophy champions the idea that gardens can be both beautiful and productive. From plum trees laden with fruit to decorative yet functional plants like Salvia officinalis (sage) and Origanum (oregano), the nursery demonstrates how edible plants can enhance garden aesthetics. Jack also points out that diverse plantings can stabilize pest and predator populations, reducing the need for interventions.
Sustainability at the Forefront
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Jack’s practices. His nursery features a balance of permanent plantings and seasonal offerings, with attention to biodiversity. For example, he incorporates islands of permanent vegetation within his food garden to provide refuge for insects and fungi, supporting the ecosystem year-round. Additionally, Jack experiments with growing unusual plants from seed, such as rare Eupatorium and Agapanthus varieties, expanding his nursery’s offerings with unique specimens.
Creating Immersive Spaces
Jack’s shade structure exemplifies his talent for creating inviting garden spaces. Featuring layered shade-tolerant plantings and a simple, affordable design, this structure demonstrates how anyone can build a cozy retreat in their own garden. The hardscaping and thoughtful plant choices transform the area into a tranquil haven, inspiring visitors to recreate similar setups at home.
Seasonal Shifts and Challenges
The nursery’s offerings evolve throughout the year. Spring focuses on edible plants, including fruit trees and vegetable starts, while summer highlights ornamental perennials and grasses. Jack acknowledges the challenges of maintaining a visually stunning nursery year-round, especially during slower summer months. Despite low visitor traffic in July and August, he remains committed to ensuring the nursery is always an inspiring destination.
The Meadow: A Living Canvas
A recent addition to the nursery is a meadow planting near the on-site shop. Featuring a matrix of grasses and perennials, this dynamic landscape is designed to eliminate weed pressure while supporting wildlife. Jack envisions the meadow as a year-round spectacle, with bulbs planted in the fall to add seasonal interest. The meadow also serves as an educational tool, demonstrating sustainable gardening practices.
A Must-Visit Destination
Jason left Fruits and Shoots Plant Farm inspired by Jack’s innovative approach and dedication to creating a unique nursery experience. The diversity of plants, coupled with the thoughtful design and sustainable practices, makes this nursery a standout destination. For those in the Fraser Valley or Lower Mainland, a visit to this Chilliwack gem is well worth the trip.
Key Takeaway
Fruits and Shoots Plant Farm exemplifies how a nursery can balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability while educating and inspiring its visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, there’s much to learn and enjoy from Jack’s creative vision.
