Attention green thumbs

A GROWING CONCERN

ORDER SEEDLINGS ONLINE

By Janis Wallace

Atrip to a big box store with their children planted the idea for Plantables, an online source for fruit and vegetable seedlings. Adrian and Jodi Roelands looked at the sad plants offered by the retailer and knew they could provide better options. They already supplied greenhouse growers with high-quality seedlings – why not home gardeners?

In 2018, they launched Plantables, providing organically grown seedlings to get gardeners off to a healthy start. More than 25 fruit, vegetable and herb seedlings are available through their website www.plantables.ca.

Top sellers are cherry tomatoes, cucumbers and basil. From traditional favourites beefsteak tomato and strawberries to trendy kale and red chili pepper, there’s something for everyone’s taste.

Less traditional offerings are also available. Cucamelon is a popular small melon that tastes like a mix of watermelon and cucumber with a lime twist but is the size of a grape, making it quick to add to salads.

“It’s as easy as buying a shirt,” says Carolyn Bristowe, marketing team, of ordering online. “Go to the site, pick your plants, and we send the plants when you want them.” A handy tool suggests best planting times letting growers plan their garden in the middle of winter. A chart for each seedling indicates growing environment requirements, such as full sun, container friendly and maturity time.

No matter the size of growing space available, Plantables seedlings can find a home on a patio, a backyard plot or cottage bed. There is also a fundraising program for schools and teams.

With urban gardening and healthy eating on the uptake, the Roelands know there is wide appeal.

“For $4.50 for one plant, you can have oodles of fresh vegetables on your plate every day,” says Bristowe. “Nothing beats the cost of that – it’s priceless.” 

PHOTO BY NICOLE LANGFORD

● FOR MORE INFORMATION • PLANTABLES • 5894 Douglas Line, Lambton Shores • 226-777-8797 • www.plantables.ca

Our plants grow on you.

Organic seedlings delivered to your door. Pre-order your garden today. www.plantables.ca