In Fayetteville’s climate, finding the right time of the year to garden can be tricky. But Westwood Gardens is here to help. Recently celebrating 50 years, Westwood has four locations - two in Fayetteville, as well as branches in Rogers and Springdale. Like a well-tended plant, the family business has grown and matured over the years thanks to the Black family and a special team of employees. “Spring is such an exciting time in the plant world. You get to see many plants coming out of their winter respite and start blooming in the warmer weather,” says Rebecca and Stephen Black. Having the highest quality is a priority for the team.
Gardening is a beloved hobby that also contains many mental health benefits. Plant responsibility gives you a chance to slow down and connect with nature. Gardening is also a physical activity that requires muscle and gets you in the sunlight. Research has also shown that “happy hormones” are released from soils and houseplants.
For someone new to the plant world, the team at Westwood Gardens has provided some tips to help, starting with visiting their storefronts and talking with their staff. When considering what plants to use, there are three main components:
1. Light- how much sunlight does your yard receive?
2. Water- make a plan for how you are going to hydrate your garden. (While summers can get hot in Fayetteville, consider using “drought tolerant” plants.)
3. Design- is there a certain look or symmetry you are going for?
These are the first basics to ask yourself while getting started. Another good rule of thumb is to add in a mix of annuals, which have one growing season, and perennials that come back each year. Houseplants are another option to choose from, and ones that Westwood loves to offer. Some of their most featured items are Golden Pothos, Snake, ZZ Plant, and Calibrochoa.
Are you already a gardening expert? Try something new this spring to elevate your skills, such as attracting pollinators with bee houses and landscape designs unique to you. Springtime in Fayetteville is the perfect place to start your horticulture journey, and Westwood Gardens can be your first stop toward success.