Locally Grown, Deeply Rooted: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Grow Houses at Burnett’s Country Gardens
Have you ever strolled through Burnett’s Country Gardens, picked up a perfect pansy, or admired a thriving tomato seedling and wondered, “Where did this come from?” It might surprise you to know that many of the plants you see at Burnett’s weren’t shipped in from some faraway supplier—they were grown right here, on-site or at our nearby farm in Canterbury, Connecticut.
At Burnett’s, we believe in doing things the right way: rooted in quality, care, and local pride. That’s why we manage not one, not two, but four active production houses dedicated to nursing and nurturing thousands of plants each season. From seasonal vegetables and herbs to annual blooms and specialty perennials, what you see on our shelves has been tended with intention and love from the very beginning.
Why Growing Local Matters
In a world of fast shipping and convenience, it can be easy to overlook the value of locally grown plants. But there are a number of important reasons to buy local:
- Healthier Plants: Plants grown locally are already acclimated to our region’s unique conditions—temperature, sunlight, humidity, and soil. That means they adapt more quickly and thrive better in your own garden.
- Fewer Chemicals: Because we closely monitor our grow houses, we use fewer pesticides and chemical interventions than larger commercial suppliers. We even use good bugs- more on that later.
- Freshness and Quality: There’s no lengthy transportation process that stresses plants. From propagation to your car, they move quickly and carefully.
- Sustainable Practices: Local growing reduces the carbon footprint of transporting plants across the country. Plus, it supports local economies and agriculture.
- Expertise and Accountability: Our team is right here. If you have a question about a plant, chances are we can introduce you to the very person who grew it.
A Day in the Life: Inside the Grow House
Our grow house operations start early. Each morning, our team arrives to inspect thousands of young plants and seedlings. They check moisture levels, assess the overall health of the plants, and ensure they’re thriving in their environment. One of the most important tasks? Watering.
We spend nearly five hours every single day just on watering.
Yes, you read that right. That’s because watering isn’t just about turning on a hose—it’s an art and a science. Overwatering can be just as dangerous as under-watering. That’s why our team members take the time to examine each plant bed by hand, adjusting water levels based on plant type, pot size, and recent weather.
From there, the team moves to propagation and potting. This is where the magic begins. Whether we’re planting seeds, dividing perennials, or transplanting plugs, every step is done with patience and precision. When you see strong root systems and lush foliage on the sales floor, you’re seeing the results of hours of careful attention.
Weekly Highlights: What’s Growing Now?
One of the most exciting parts of the season is watching new growth unfold week after week. Every plant has a journey, and we’re thrilled to give you a front-row seat. Each week in our newsletter and social media, we’ll highlight what’s blooming, what’s being prepped for sale, and what surprises you can expect on your next visit.
This week’s spotlight: Dahlias!
Our dahlias have just started to bloom, and they are looking stunning. With their vibrant colors and dramatic shapes, they’re already stealing the show in Grow House #2. Whether you love them for cut flower arrangements or to brighten your borders, our home-grown dahlias will be strong, striking, and ready to thrive in your garden.
What Sets Burnett’s Apart
Sure, you can pick up plants at a big box store—but those plants have likely traveled hundreds (if not thousands) of miles and been handled by multiple middlemen. At Burnett’s, the process is personal.
When you buy from us, you’re getting:
- Plants grown in the same climate as your garden.
- Access to expert growers who know your zone, your soil, and your challenges.
- Support for a local business that’s deeply invested in our community.
- Confidence that your plant has been nurtured with attention and experience from day one.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Our Grow Houses
As we continue into the spring season, our four grow houses will be bursting with even more variety. From vibrant annuals to hard-to-find specialty perennials, we’re always testing, trying, and growing new things.
And don’t forget—we’re here to help! If you have questions about what to plant, when to plant, or how to care for your green friends, our team is ready and eager to share our knowledge. After all, we’ve been growing them ourselves.
Stay Connected: Behind the Scenes and Beyond
Want a deeper look into the life of a Burnett’s Grown plant? Subscribe to our newsletter if you haven’t already or follow us on social media. You’ll get weekly updates, seasonal tips, and exclusive behind-the-scenes peeks into our greenhouses, farm, and more.
Because here at Burnett’s, we’re locally rooted.
Let us be part of your garden story. Come see the difference local makes.