New Southington Garden Center To Cut The Ribbon As Store Opens This Week

SOUTHINGTON, CT— Van Wilgen’s Garden Center will mark the opening of its new Southington location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at noon on Thursday, March 19.

The event will take place at 1198 Queen St., restoring a long-standing garden retail site along the town’s busy commercial corridor.

The event will celebrate the reopening of the former Smithland Pet & Garden Center/Agway property, which has undergone extensive renovations.

The 5.1-acre site has historically served local gardeners, homeowners, and landscapers.

Scheduled speakers include Connecticut Department of Agriculture Commissioner Bryan P. Hurlburt, state Sen. Rob Sampson, R-Wolcott, state Rep. Chris Poulos, D-Southington, Southington Town Councilor Tony Morrison, Van Wilgen’s owner Ryan Van Wilgen, and Southington Chamber of Commerce CEO Barbara Coleman-Hekeler.

The ceremony will feature remarks from officials, a ribbon-cutting, and tours showcasing the renovated interior and exterior, along with product displays.

The new store represents a significant reinvestment in the Queen Street corridor and is expected to create about 25 jobs.

Several former employees of the previous business have joined the new operation, maintaining continuity for returning customers.

Van Wilgen’s said the Southington location will offer plants, gardening supplies, landscaping materials, and seasonal merchandise year-round, aiming to meet regional demand for horticultural products.

A larger grand opening celebration is planned for April 11–12.

In addition to Southington, Van Wilgen's also has stores in Milford, North Branford, Guilford, Clinton, and Old Saybrook.

From March 4: 'New Garden Center To Open Later This Month In Southington'