Saturday, March 31, 2018

How many customers are enough?

Kevin Cohn



When I started in the greenhouse business and struggled to establish new customers, I was stunned by the sign at Witmer’s Greenhouse -----

            “We are accepting NO new customers”

            It was the boom days in the 70’s and 80’s when plant shops were popping up on every street corner.  Suddenly, houseplants were the ‘In’ thing. Suddenly, everybody was interested in collecting plants.  Suddenly, collectors cared about plant names and what was the newest variety?

            When I questioned the sign, I was told that the owners at Witmer’s decided that it was too important not to take care of their existing customers ---- the ones that bought for years.  They couldn’t jeopardize their loyal customers for the sake of the new upstarts.

            My naïve thinking was just grow more plants and satisfy everyone. But, expansion is not a causal undertaking.  What happens when the upstarts disappear?

            And, of course, they did disappear---- after a number of years.  The flash-in the-pan burned out.

            Houseplants are coming back, there is no question.  I get inquires every week for our ‘Mini’ plants.  I’m happy to open new accounts.
           
            But, what will be the set of circumstances when we ask:

                        “How many customers are enough?”




Monday, March 5, 2018

Chinese Money Plant for Sale...

Chinese Money Plant


          The Chinese Money Plant, Pilea peperomioides, is available for sale at Meadowbrook Farms retail area at the Philadelphia Flower Show.

          This plant is in high demand and elusive.  Don't miss your chance to snag one.








This made my day...





          These nice words came to me from Susan Sturdee______



     "Just wanted to let you know that your plants are fantastic and are making me very happy. I went to the Philadelphia Flower Show and found your plants at the Meadowbrook Farms display and I bought gesneriads and a creeping Peperomia and a few others. Can't say enough of the quality, size and price. I will look forward to finding your plants from now on. Thank you!"