Follow your nose

The term ‘dead of winter’ is really hitting home right about now. Here in Cleveland, it’s about 10 degrees and I’ve already shoveled the walk twice today. It’s safe to say, spring is still a long away.

That’s why I’m so incredibly thankful that I not only live near some beautiful garden centers, I’m also close to the Cleveland Botanical Garden. Stepping inside, you forget that it’s still snowing and your car is covered in ice. You’re transported to a whole different world where it’s warm and green all year round.

You can explore the flora of Madagascar and Costa Rica right in the heart of downtown. There’s no better place to take a few hours’ vacation when the weather is hostile.

It’s not just the gorgeous tropical plants, the unique baobab trees and the vibrant colors, it’s the sounds and smells of the greenhouse that make a visit so pleasant. The rustle of leaves, the smell of jasmine, the feel or rubber plants and sometimes, the flutter of butterflies all add to the experience. Those are all sorely missed in the Midwest in February.

I’m especially looking forward to the gardens’ upcoming Orchids Forever show, where I can not only peruse the incredibly diverse options but take some home with me as well. This year’s theme focuses on the relationships between orchids and pollinators, so it’s sure to be good education for the next generation of gardeners too.

So in preparation for spring, we’re exploring what plants offer in terms of fragrance, and how to best use that feature in the cover story on page 18. From day to night, spring to fall, there are all kinds of annuals that will provide an added benefit to customers’ gardens and landscapes. Plus, it’s a responsible selling point as the scents fragrant annuals bring to the garden, also attract and support pollinator populations, just like orchids.

If you’re looking for other unique ways to help customers discover fragrant plants (and plants that engage the other four senses), don’t miss C.L. Fornari’s column on page 12. And like Toucan Sam says, “Follow your nose” to new plant varieties.