Meet Julia Foran, the newest owner of April’s Garden. After acquiring the beloved local shop in the fall of 2025, Julia is stepping into her first business with energy, intention, and a deep appreciation for the role flowers play in everyday life. I had the opportunity to sit down with her as she prepares for the busy spring and summer season here in Durango.
A graduate of Fort Lewis College, Julia spent time moving around the West before being pulled back to Durango by what many describe as the town’s gravitational pull. Now, she’s ready to put down roots and help the community celebrate life’s moments through flowers and plants for every occasion.
Following a successful Valentine’s Day, Julia and her team are gearing up for the next big rush: Mother’s Day and graduation season. As Julia puts it, “more people have a mother than a lover,” and she is excited to help customers create something truly special this May.
April’s Garden sources many of its plants from regional growers in New Mexico and is in the process of bringing in dozens of hanging baskets for yards and patios this summer. The flowers are fresh, healthy, and sourced from a mix of regional growers and trusted domestic and international farms, ensuring both quality and variety. For those feeling creative, the shop also offers a hands-on experience. Customers can bring in their own pots to the store to mix and match plants, creating their own custom planted arrangements.
In other words, bring the whole family in this May and design a one-of-a-kind gift for the special person in your life. And flowers do not have to be short-lived. In addition to traditional bouquets, April’s Garden offers rooted, living plants that can last through the entire growing season and beyond.
Of course, the shop still carries a wide variety of fresh flower bouquets perfect for any occasion. With colors that span the spectrum, there is something for everyone. As Julia explains, “A lot of moms are big gardeners, so we’ll put together gift baskets for gardening moms, but we also have plenty of traditional fresh flower bouquets for people who want something classic.”
Between Julia and her team, there is a wealth of knowledge built on years of experience. Whether you are planting perennials that will last year after year or experimenting with annuals that may reseed on their own, the team can guide you. They are especially skilled at helping customers navigate Durango’s unique microclimates. If your yard is shaded by trees or exposed to full sun, they can recommend plants that will thrive in your specific environment.
This year, April’s Garden is also introducing something new for Mother’s Day. Instead of offering dozens of mixed arrangements, Julia and her team are focusing on curated color palettes. “If your mom loves hot pink, you can choose a hot pink bouquet. If she prefers yellow, green, or softer tones, we’ll have those options too. It makes the process simpler while still feeling personal.”
With a fresh perspective and a strong connection to the community, Julia Foran and her team at April’s Garden are ready for a vibrant season ahead.