For Judy Hostetler, the scent of fresh soil, the vibrant emerging sprouts and the rhythmic pitter-patter of water on leaves aren’t merely signs of spring; they’re the pulse of a lifelong passion.
Before opening The Country Garden Center in Topeka, Hostetler spent countless hours exploring her family’s greenhouse, where every seed promised a green future. That early curiosity soon blossomed into the idea of starting her own business, proving that sometimes the best things in life grow in gardens.
As the center gears up for another bustling season, it celebrates a significant milestone: 25 years in business. With expanded space, the center will welcome gardeners of all levels at its grand opening on April 25 and 26. As spring arrives, Hostetler offers some tried-and-true tips to help budding gardeners achieve satisfaction.
Preparing the Soil for Spring Planting
Before a seed unfurls its first promising sprout, the soil must be roused from its winter slumber. A garden’s success doesn’t begin with planting; it starts with preparation. Hostetler, a firm believer in healthy soil, recommends amending a high-quality fertilizer like Espoma, a trusted brand since 1929, to ensure plants receive the essential nutrients they need. “Think of it as feeding the earth before it feeds you,” she explains.
Growing Pains: Common Gardening Mistakes
Even the most enthusiastic gardeners can get into a tangle. Hostetler has seen it all. While gardening is a journey of trial and error, a few key missteps can quickly wilt any gardener’s enthusiasm.
Letting Plants Take Over: Many turned to gardening during the 2008 economic crisis to cut costs. One customer loaded a cart with more tomato plants than his garden could handle. “We cautioned that the number of plants in his cart would turn into a tomato takeover, spilling into the neighbor’s yard,” Hostetler recalls. Proper spacing is key; every plant needs room to breathe.
Overwatering or Underwatering: Watering might seem straightforward, yet it’s a balancing act. Some gardeners drown their plants, while others forget to water at all. Hostetler advises getting to know each plant’s unique thirst. A simple tip is to stick a finger into the soil about an inch deep. If it’s dry, it’s time for a drink; if it’s still damp, hold off and let nature take its course.
Planting too Deep: A standard rookie error is burying seeds too far beneath the surface. For example, daisies must be planted closer to the surface to avoid root rot. Checking seed packet instructions or consulting garden experts can ensure every seed finds its perfect, shallow home.
Bracing for Spring’s Mood Swings
Indiana’s spring weather is as fickle as a cat on a hot tin roof – sunny one moment, brisk the next. “Windburn can be just as damaging as frost,” Hostetler warns. Using quality, breathable plant covers can protect delicate sprouts from sudden, harsh changes.
Spring Garden Essentials
Hostetler’s top maintenance tips for a thriving garden include:
Test and amend the soil: A balanced fertilizer paired with a touch of lime boosts soil health and primes it for planting.
Prune and clean up: Removing winter debris deters pests and reduces disease risk.
Plan for pests: Companion planting offers natural protection, such as pairing marigolds with other flora.
More Than a Garden Center
Hostetler’s love for plants is matched only by her dedication to people. Whether teaching local schoolchildren about native flora or guiding a first-time gardener, her passion helps others grow just as much as her beloved blooms. Customers frequently call back, sharing successes – a testament to the hands-on approach that makes The Country Garden Center more than just a place to shop. It’s a local gem where inspiration takes root.
This commitment extends beyond spring. The annual Fall Festival, held on the first Tuesday in October, transforms the center into a seasonal marketplace featuring over 70 local vendors, festive decor and family-friendly entertainment. Hostetler doesn’t just grow plants every year; she cultivates connections, nurtures learning and helps gardens (and gardeners) flourish.
The Country Garden Center opens in April and continues through October. It is located at 4640 West 400 South in Topeka. Hours vary by season. Call 260-593-3747 to confirm upcoming events.
