Royal Oak In Bloom Features Plants, Garden Decor

ROYAL OAK, MI — Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, the popular Mother’s Day tradition known as Royal Oak in Bloom will offer the same glorious flowers, plants and landscaping décor, just in a new location. The 25th Annual Royal Oak in Bloom will transform the area parking lots into a host of color, presenting a full-scale lawn, garden, landscaping and plant show. The event is set for 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 13.

With the construction in the Williams Street lot near City Hall, Royal Oak in Bloom will move down the street to the parking lots at 6th and Main and 7th and Main, according to Director of Events & Communications Jennifer Clark.

“We have over 65 vendors joining us this year – many who have been part of the event for many years and even some new vendors,” Clark said. “So, shoppers will find all their favorite -- just in a new place.”

Organizers say growers arrive in the wee hours of the morning, long before sunrise, to unload semis full of hanging plants, vegetables, perennials, annuals and even small trees. Local farmers include Bill Stahl – who has been in the event since its inception 25 years ago – Weig’s Greenhouse, Martin Farms and Bielat’s Greenhouse as well as the Wenz, Gaier, Gracia, Uhlianuk and Van Houtte families. Each of these vendors maintains their own following with regular shoppers returning annually to restock and add new selections to their own gardens.

Lawn décor has become a popular addition to the event, organizers say. Clover Stones and Farmbrook Designs will bring their unique creations. Long-time vendors Iron Ivy, Bad Axe Iron and Michigan Made Metal will be on site. Presentability will bring its unique plant hangers. And, landscapers such as Lawn Doctor and Caldwell & Co will be on hand to support homeowners seeking lawn care services.

“So many people bring their moms to this event to select the perfect hanging basket or garden accent,” Clark added. “Royal Oak in Bloom is a tradition for Royal Oak residents … and we’ve added one more hour to the event to give shoppers a little more time to help their gardens grow!”

There will also be wind chimes, hummingbird feeders, stepping stones, and patio furniture. Cut flowers for mothers are sold by Holiday Market.

One of the most popular aspects of this event is the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce’s unique Plant Pick Up Service. Volunteers staff the Plant Pick-Up Area to assist shoppers by storing purchases. Shoppers can “check” items and continue browsing, returning to claim their items and queue up for a “ride” to their cars. Utility vehicles and hand carts will aid shoppers in transporting purchases to their cars. Members of the Royal Oak Chamber will drive the carts, check the plants and assist shoppers all day long. Tips are accepted and then donated to the Royal Oak Chamber scholarship fund.

Photo courtesy Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce

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