Once identified as a star performer, Jo Ann’s dedication doesn’t end there. Instead, she takes the extra step to propagate and procure her favorite selections, making them accessible to fellow gardeners eager to experience their beauty firsthand.

Through years of trial and error, Jo Ann has amassed a collection of tried-and-true varieties, each handpicked for its outstanding performance and adaptability.

Here are Jo Ann’s Top 10 (in no particular order):

Persian Shield

With its striking purple and silver foliage, Persian Shield adds an exotic flair to any garden bed. Thriving in partial shade to shade, this plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its bushy form are all it needs to thrive.

Shrimp Plant

Known for its unique shrimp-like flowers, this tropical beauty boasts vibrant yellow flowers that are a favorite of pollinators. Plant in well-draining soil and provide full to part sunlight. Regular watering and occasional fertilization during the growing season will keep it flourishing.

Blue Plumbago

A true garden gem, Blue Plumbago enchants with its sky-blue flowers and lush green foliage. Plant in full sun and water regularly, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly to shape and encourage blooming.

Hawaiian Snowbush

Its delicate, variegated leaves lend an elegant touch to any garden, offering a beautiful contrast of pink, green and white. Thrives in filtered sunlight and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and trim lightly to maintain its graceful form.

Bougainvillea

A showstopper in any garden, Bougainvillea dazzles with its vibrant bracts in shades of pink, red, orange, or purple. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and provide support for climbing varieties.

Sunpatiens

These vigorous annuals offer non-stop color throughout the season, with large, vibrant blooms in shades of pink, orange, purple, and white. Plant in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water regularly, especially during hot weather, and deadhead spent blooms to promote continuous flowering.

Dragon Wing Begonia

With its glossy, wing-shaped leaves and cascading habit, Dragon Wing Begonia adds a touch of elegance to hanging baskets and containers. Thrives in partial shade and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, and pinch back stems to encourage bushiness.

Lantana

A favorite for its clusters of colorful flowers and attractive foliage, Lantana is a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds. Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and prune lightly to shape and control growth.

Coleus

With its kaleidoscope of colors and patterns, Coleus adds instant drama and interest to any garden or container.  We grow varieties that thrive in partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. Keep soil consistently moist and pinch back flower spikes to encourage bushiness and vibrant foliage.

Cuphea

Also known as cigar plant, Cuphea charms with its tubular, bi-colored flowers and compact growth habit. Plant in full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering.

In a world where trends come and go, Jo Ann’s gardening wisdom reminds us of the enduring value of selecting plants not just for their beauty but for their ability to thrive throughout the season.

Jo Ann’s 50 years of expertise serve as a beacon of trust and reliability. Her insight and experience provide invaluable guidance, helping others navigate the vast array of plant choices and select those best suited to their own gardens.

The post 50 Years of Floral Finesse: Jo Ann’s Top 10 Annual Plants appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

This year we are celebrating an incredible milestone—50 years in business.  Here’s our story:

Jo Ann and her late husband, Tom Dewar, purchased the 18-acre property in 1960, drawn to its potential and natural beauty. Tom had just completed his service as an air traffic controller at RDU and his time in the Coast Guard. Meanwhile, Jo Ann balanced a myriad of roles—mother of two (soon to be four), farm manager, and visionary entrepreneur. On their newly acquired land, they established a diverse farm with pigs, cows, chickens, and crops such as hay, melons, and strawberries. It was the strawberries that provided their first taste of success, as Jo Ann pioneered the “pick-your-own” model that would soon become a popular spring activity for the surrounding community.

As the family grew, so did Jo Ann’s ambitions. In the late 1960s, she saw an opportunity to supplement the family’s income and decided to venture into the world of canine care by opening Fairview Kennel. For several years, Jo Ann balanced her responsibilities, expertly managing the kennel while raising her children. But her heart always yearned for the vibrant world of plants and flowers.

In 1973, Tom built Jo Ann her first greenhouse. It was a modest structure compared to the sprawling gardens of today, but it marked a pivotal moment for Fairview Garden Center. Jo Ann’s green thumb worked wonders as she cultivated geraniums, tomatoes, peppers, poinsettias, and other plants from cuttings she collected from neighbors. With a keen eye for opportunity, Jo Ann struck a deal with local grocery stores like Winn Dixie and Kerr Drug, selling her plants and produce on consignment. As demand grew, so did Fairview’s reputation as a wholesale supplier.  The business grew in this fashion until the mid ‘80s.

The next few decades brought transformative change to the garden center. As the surrounding area experienced rapid population growth, Fairview’s focus shifted to meet the needs of a burgeoning retail market. Neighbors and passers-by began stopping by, seeking plants and gardening supplies for their homes and landscapes. In response, the family expanded the business, opening a retail division in 1988 and stocking a wide array of gardening tools, hardware, and plant varieties.

By 1998, the family decided to pivot their focus entirely toward retail, save for their wholesale poinsettia sales for fundraisers. This shift necessitated a significant renovation to improve the shopping experience for their growing customer base. Through perseverance and patience, Fairview Garden Center unveiled its new layout in 2004, complete with spacious concrete pathways that replaced the once muddy gravel trails.

Today, Fairview Garden Center stands as a sanctuary for plant lovers and a cherished part of the community. Jo Ann’s enduring passion is evident in every corner of the garden center, from the carefully curated plants to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. Her story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep love for the land. 

As we 50 years of nurturing beauty and community, we invite you to join us in this milestone. With an eye toward the future and a heart rooted in tradition, we welcome ideas and suggestions to continue growing and flourishing for many more decades to come.

Happy Planting!

Brad Rollins

The post The History of Fairview Garden Center appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

Quick & Easy Care Tips for Your Hanging Basket:

• Water Wisely
  • Hanging baskets dry out faster than ground plants. Check them daily by feeling the soil; if the top inch is dry, it’s time for a drink. Early morning or late evening is the best time to water.
• Location, Location, Location
  • Place your hanging basket where it will thrive best. Some plants adore the sun, while others prefer shaded or semi-shaded spots. We’re here to help you choose the right plant for the right place (see more below)!
• Feed for Success
  • Use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks to keep your plants nourished. This will encourage continuous blooming and lush growth.
• Groom for Bloom
  • Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage new blooms and keep your basket looking its best.
• Rotation is Key
  • Give your basket a little spin once a week to ensure all sides receive equal light, promoting even growth and flowering.

Sun Exposure

It’s important to select the right plant for the right spot.  Monitor the area in which you plan to hang your hanging basket closely to see how much the sun shines in your spot.  Some plants can tolerate much more sunlight than others.  Some are made for the shade.

• Full Sun – 6 + Hours of direct sunlight
• Part Sun – 4-6 Hours of direct sunlight
• Part Shade – 4-6 Hours of filtered light or mostly shade
• Full Shade – 6 + Hours of shade

Water & Fertilizer

Some annual hanging baskets will prefer more water throughout the season than others.  Water baskets thoroughly, until water drains out the bottom.  As the summer heat approaches you may have to water every day. You can tell if your plant needs water by the weight of the basket.

During the growing season, fertilize once a week with a high middle number fertilizer (such as Jack’s Bloom Booster) for more prolific blooms.

Growth Habit

The growth habit of a plant refers to the shape, height, appearance, and form of growth of a particular species.  Every plant species has a different growth habit.  Most of the plants we grow in hanging baskets are considered trailing plants, meaning they will continue to grow out and down, creating a full basket and covering the pot. 

However, we also offer hanging basket filled with vines, mixed plant combinations and upright growing plant varieties.  Be sure to choose the right plant to add the right height, texture and color to your perfect spot.  Just tell us what you’re looking for and we’ll guide in the right direction!

The post Hanging Basket Tips appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

Our greenhouse is more than just a place where plants grow; it’s a living, breathing testament to the dedication and passion of Jo Ann Dewar and our entire team. With over 50 years of experience, we’re proud to share the fruits of our labor with you, our valued customers. Each plant that leaves our greenhouse carries with it a story of care, knowledge, and a love for gardening that spans generations. Welcome to our world, where the beauty of nature meets the legacy of Jo Ann Dewar.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes journey to understand the meticulous care and deep-rooted knowledge that goes into producing our renowned greenhouse crops.

Research

Our process is both a science and an art, honed over decades of experience and constant learning. It begins with the careful research of new plant varieties, a testament to our commitment to diversity and innovation in our offerings. Each season, we embark on the complex task of planning out crop rotations, ensuring that our plants grow in a healthy and sustainable environment, benefiting from the natural balance of nature’s cycles.

Plan

Creating planting lists is the next critical step, a detailed blueprint of what we aim to cultivate in the coming months. This task requires an intimate understanding of each plant’s needs, growth patterns, and the delicate balance of our greenhouse ecosystem. The physical preparation of our crops starts with counting pots and filling them with nutrient-rich soil, a foundational step that sets the stage for healthy plant growth.

Plant

Propagating new plants is a skill that Jo Ann, even from her earliest days, has mastered with a gentle yet confident touch. This crucial phase involves nurturing young plants from seeds or cuttings, watching over them with a careful eye and a steady hand. Planting plugs follows, transitioning our young plants into their own spaces where they can flourish and grow.

Grow

Fertilizing, pruning, and lots of watering are the ongoing tasks that breathe life into our greenhouse. Each plant receives personalized care, ensuring they receive the right nutrients, the proper shape, and the optimal amount of water to thrive. This daily dedication is a labor of love, a ritual that our team, guided by Jo Ann’s unwavering commitment, performs with joy and precision.

For over half a century, our greenhouse has stood as a beacon of horticultural excellence and botanical passion, led by the indomitable spirit of Jo Ann Dewar. Now in her 90’s and in the greenhouse every day, Jo Ann’s journey in the world of plant propagation and gardening has blossomed into a legacy of unmatched expertise and devotion to the art of growing plants.

The post Fairview Grown appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

A Smarter Rewards Program

Use the app like a punch card.  Check in at each visit to the Fairview Garden Center registers.  Simply activate your app, let the cashier scan your code and be one step closer to discounts and freebies.

Possible Rewards:

(subject to change)

• $5.00 Off a purchase of $30 or more just for downloading
• Every 5 Check-Ins = $10.00 Off a purchase
• 11 Lifetime Check-Ins = $25.00 Gift Card
• 19 Lifetime Check-Ins = $50.00 Gift Card
• 29 Lifetime Check-Ins = $75.00 Gift Card
• Special rewards on your birthday!
• And more!

Play with Plants

Use the MasterTag interactive plant database to search for your favorite plant.  See pictures, find planting information, care tips and more.  New plants and information are updated regularly.

Ask the Experts

Have a question about a plant, pest or product?  Use the “Ask Us” app feature to quickly upload a pic or send a question or comment to the experts at Fairview.  We will respond quickly to help you solve a dilemma or find the perfect plant.

Our Tips

Be the first to know about sales, specials and events!

Find the FREE Fairview Garden Center App on Google Play or a the AppStore.

The post We’ve Got an App for That appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

What are those brown spots on those leaves? Should I cut off sickly-looking leaves? What does my plant need? Can my plant recover? These are all questions that you may be asking yourself right now. 

You’re understandably worried about your plant showing signs of distress, so below, you’ll find a quick guide to help you identify whatever issues are plaguing your plants before they succumb.

Signs Your Plant is Dying or Sick

Plants are talkative, in a way. Because they can be quite sensitive to watering, soil acidity, light conditions, humidity, pest infestations and a broad range of factors, they’ll tell you when something is bothering them. Keep an eye out for:

• Yellowing or browning on the leaves
• Wilting or drooping leaves
• Leaves falling off
• Roots visible on the surface of the soil or coming through drainage holes
• Brown or black spots
• Flowers blooming and then falling off soon after 
• The presence of gnats
• Visible fungus on the leaves or the soil surface

These symptoms usually mean your plant is asking you to take action. 

Can Sick Plants Recover?

It depends. Sometimes plants can be resilient and bounce back to their original health after proper measures are taken. Unfortunately, sometimes plants are not able to bounce back, despite all your best efforts. One thing to remember is that if there is still any green coloration left on your plant, you may still be able to bring them back from the brink.

That said, a simple repotting can be all that is needed to save your plant. A larger pot or planter with fresh, healthy soil can sometimes be enough to save them. If your leaves are dry and crunchy at the ends, you may be underwatering your plant. Conversely, if your plant’s leaves are brown or yellow, and the soil is still moist days after watering, you may be overwatering it. Delay your watering for a week or two to allow the soil and roots to dry out before adding more. You may also want to consider rotating your plants so that it gets light/sun from all angles.

3 Common Plant Diseases

Some fungi can form symbiotic relationships with plants and soil. Some, however, destroy your plant from above or below the soil. The following are three of the most common plant diseases that may be afflicting your plant: 

Powdery Mildew

This kind of fungus looks like white mildew or a dusty white coating on the underside of your plant’s leaves, and is usually caused by prolonged wetness. 

Root Rot or Thielaviopsis

Usually caused by overwatering and poor drainage, root rot looks like mushy, black, deadened roots. Healthy roots look tan and feel firm. Early signs of root rot include wilting and yellowing leaves. 

Gray Mold or Botrytis

Usually found in the wounds of plants, it can look like brown or gray rot around the wound site. That said, it can attack any part of your plant. Look for fuzzy, gray mold.  

Visit Fairview Garden Center for Expert Advice

Each plant has unique characteristics and needs to stay healthy and thriving. Let our team guide you to the best solution to save or revive your sick or dying plants. We have a wide variety of solutions available at our store for your purchase, and we encourage you to bring in your plants when you come see us!

The post How to Tell if Your Plant Is Sick or Dying appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

Placement: Place your poinsettia in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight and cold drafts, as both can cause leaf drop.

Temperature: Poinsettias prefer temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid extreme temperature changes.

Watering: Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch, but avoid letting it sit in water. Overwatering can cause root rot. Ensure good drainage in the pot.

Humidity: Poinsettias prefer humid environments. You can increase humidity by placing the pot on a tray of pebbles filled with water or by using a humidifier.

Avoiding Stress: Poinsettias are sensitive to stress. Once you find a good spot for your plant, try to avoid moving it around too much or exposing it to sudden changes in temperature or light.

Fertilization: During the blooming season, feed the poinsettia with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month.

Pruning: If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, you can prune it after the blooming season (usually in spring). Cut back the stems to encourage new growth.

Post-Holiday Care: After the holidays, continue caring for the poinsettia as usual. With proper care, they can last well beyond the holiday season and even bloom again the following year.

Remember, poinsettias are not poisonous, contrary to popular belief, but it’s still best to keep them out of reach of pets and small children as ingesting the leaves might cause mild stomach upset.

The post Poinsettia Care Tips appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

• Timing: Fall is the ideal time to plant pansies and violas. Aim to plant them in late September through early November when the weather is cooler, but the soil is still warm. This allows the roots to establish before winter.

• Location: Choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. Pansies and violas thrive in partial to full sun.

• Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by amending it with compost or organic matter. Well-draining soil is crucial for these plants. You can also add a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients. We like to mix Daddy Pete’s Mushroom Compost into existing soil and add a dose of Osmocote Slow Release Fertilizer after planting.

• Planting Depth: When planting pansies and violas, make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Space the plants about 6-10 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.

• Watering: After planting, water the newly installed pansies and violas thoroughly. Watering deeply helps settle the soil and establish good root contact. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water early in the day to allow the foliage to dry before evening.

• Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help conserve soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. This also helps control weeds.

• Fertilization: Feed your pansies and violas with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer according to the package instructions. Apply the first round of fertilizer when planting and then again in mid to late fall.

• Winter Protection: In central North Carolina, winters can be mild but occasionally frosty. Be prepared to cover your pansies and violas with frost cloth or a light sheet when freezing temperatures are expected. Remove the covers during the day to allow sunlight and air circulation.

• Enjoy the Color: We grow pansies and violas in various colors and bloom size, so enjoy their vibrant hues throughout the fall and into early spring. These flowers will often continue to bloom even in the cooler temperatures.

Remember that while pansies and violas can withstand chilly temperatures, they may still suffer from extreme cold snaps. With proper care, you can enjoy their beauty and brighten up your garden during the fall and winter months in central North Carolina.

The post Pansy Planting Tips appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

Here in NC, we have plenty of time to add shrubs to our landscape.   We are sharing our top 5 shrubs to plant in the fall for an explosion of color in the spring.

Quince

You’ll do a double take when you see this quince that looks like a camellia. Double Take Scarlet puts on a spectacular early spring display of large red, double flowers. The Double Take quinces are more than just pretty spring flowers: thornless and deer-resistant, they do not produce fruit, and once established, are drought-tolerant survivalists. Developed by Dr. Tom Ranney and his team at the Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center in beautiful North Carolina, the Double Take quinces are sure to brighten spring landscapes across the United States.  This quince also comes in Orange, Pink, and Peach.

Forsythia

Bright yellow early spring flowers. Improved flower display compared to older varieties. Compact. Deer resistant. Good for cut displays. Heat Tolerant.   Show Off Variety can reach 6’, but Show Off Starlet and Show Off Sugar Baby are much smaller.  If you want the large old fashioned variety, we carry Lynwood Gold.

Loropetalum

We have strong growing varieties with outstanding form, flowers and foliage. Most loropetalum have cool purple foliage with a cranberry undercurrent. It combines beautifully with the hot pink blooms. You can get showy little dwarf plants that fit easily into residential landscapes or larger varieties that grow up to 6’ tall.

Camellia japonica

Common Japanese Camellia (Camellia japonica) is a broadleaved, evergreen shrub, which may grow to a height of 25 feet, but more often to 6 to 12 feet. It has a spread of 6 to 10 feet. The dark-green leathery leaves are 4 inches long. The flowers, which range in color from white to pink and red, are 3 to 5 inches in diameter.  We carry many varieties.

Encore Azaleas

These Azaleas are evergreens that bloom three times a year, are available in 31 cultivars in an array of colors (everything from red to white to lavender), and are now widely considered among the best to grow. They also have strong root systems, are winter-hardy and pest tolerant, and establish quickly. 

Shrubs planted in the fall typically have well-established root systems by the time spring arrives. This can lead to a burst of new growth and foliage in the spring, as the shrubs are ready to take full advantage of the warming weather and longer daylight hours. Proper site selection, soil preparation, and post-planting care, including mulching and watering as needed, are also crucial for the success of your shrubs when planting in the fall or any other season.

The post 5 Shrubs to Plant in the Fall for Spring Color appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.

1. Cooler Temperatures: During the fall, the weather is typically cooler, which is less stressful for plants. Cooler temperatures reduce the risk of heat stress and water loss, allowing newly planted perennials to establish their root systems without the intense heat of summer.
2. Soil Warmth: In many areas, the soil retains warmth from the summer months even as the air temperature cools. This warmth encourages root growth, helping perennials establish themselves before winter.
3. Adequate Moisture: Autumn often brings more consistent rainfall, and the cooler temperatures reduce the rate of evaporation, which means less watering may be required compared to planting in the summer. However, it’s still important to monitor soil moisture and water as needed.
4. Reduced Competition: In the fall, many annual plants are reaching the end of their life cycles, so there is less competition for space, sunlight, and nutrients in the garden. This can give your newly planted perennials a better chance to thrive.
5. Spring Bloom: Some perennials planted in the fall may surprise you with early blooms the following spring, as their root systems have had time to establish over the winter.

Here are a five of our favorite perennials plants to add to the garden this fall:

Ajuga (Bugleweed)

Ajuga is a decorative spreading groundcover for shade to part sun. It blooms in spring and early summer with little flower spikes in various shades of purple or blue.

Bergenia (Pigsqueak)

Bergenia is a groundcover that blooms in early spring. It can grow in part shade
to part sun. Pink flowers open atop stems that pop up about 8 to 10 inches.

Creeping Phlox

A huge favorite among spring bloomers, creeping phlox grows in full sun and provides a literal carpet of color from mid to late spring. The flowers come in shades of white, pink, red and lavender and many combinations thereof.

Vinca minor (Periwinkle)

This spreading vine can thrive in any light from shade to full sun. Adorable purple flowers appear amongst the vines in spring.

Pulmonaria (Lungwort)

Pulmonaria is a full to part shade spreading groundcover with stunning silver-spotted foliage. Depending on the variety, it blooms with pink, purple or blue flowers in early spring.

All of these perennial beauties are deer and rabbit resistant, and many of them are evergreen as well!

When planting in the fall, it’s important to be mindful of the first frost date in your region. Planting too close to the first frost can be risky, as it may not give the perennials enough time to establish roots before winter. The average first frost in our area is not until late October to early November.

Proper soil preparation is also essential. Provide adequate mulch for insulation, and water your newly planted perennials as needed throughout the fall to ensure their successful establishment.

The post 5 Perennials to Plant in the Fall for Spring Color appeared first on Fairview Garden Center.