By Linda Wiggen Kraft
The motto “because life should be beautiful and tasty, too” is the mission of Hillermann Nursery and Florist in Washington, Missouri. Hillerman’s celebrates is 59th anniversary this month to honor the many years of helping bring beauty and nourishment to people’s lives through flowers, gardens and landscapes. And to show its commitment to sustainable gardening, landscaping and living there is an Earth Day Celebration and Sustainability Fair on Saturday April 24th (see details below).
Hillermann’s is a gem of a garden center that has been recognized nationally. It was awarded the 2009 Garden Center of the Year award by the Garden Centers of America (GCA). From 2006 to 2010 it has been one of the top 100 Revolutionary Garden Centers National winners and in 2009 was in the top 10% of Teleflora Florists in the US and Canada.
We are fortunate to have this award winning garden center nearby. What is unique about Hillermann’s is that it can provide all the products and services for garden and landscape needs in one-stop garden shopping. The growing demand for organic, sustainable and edible gardening is supported by the products, plants and workshops offered. There is a huge selection of trees, shrubs, plants (4 on-site greenhouses grow annuals, vegetables, perennials and roses), seeds, garden gifts, flowers, landscaping materials, wildlife supplies, outdoor furniture, pots, containers, statuary, sculptures, display gardens and lawn & garden machinery and service. Garden and irrigation design, installation and maintenance are available along with snow removal, aquatic weed control, grading and seeding. Services are available to west St. Louis County at Clarkson Road.
It all began in 1951 by Don Hillermann, who was joined by his brother Bernie in 1953. Today second-generation family members Sandi Hillermann McDonald and Scott Hillermann run the diverse company that employs 80 people. Since 2000 it has been at its new three-acre location at 2601 East 5th Street.
The April Anniversary activities start on the 3rd with cake and the Easter Bunny (from 1 – 3 pm) who will be there for photos. On the 10th,17th and 24th Landscape Advisors will help with garden design (8:30 to 11:30am). On the 17th there is a Spring Rose Workshop (10 am) and Master Gardeners (10am – 2 pm).
The Earth Day Celebration & Sustainability Fair, Saturday the 24th (10am – 3 pm) showcases earth friendly products and services with displays and guest experts. Featured will be Organic Lawn Care, Straw-Bale Home Building, Solar Power, Geothermal Heating & Cooling, Grow Native plants, Rain Harvesting, Aquascape Water Gardens, and more. Grilled vegetable and children’s activities are available throughout the day.
Stop by the garden center for all your gardening needs, take part in the April Anniversary activities and check out the website for loads of information and offers: www.hillermanncom. Hillerman Nursery & Florists 636 239-6729, 2601 E. 5th St., Washington, MO 63090.