Westlake Greenhouses Overcome Soggy Spring

April and May of this year have been among the wettest months ever, with cloudy skies and rain about every two days. There has been massive flooding, large-sized hail and strong winds causing damage to homes and businesses. Power has sometimes been knocked out, and many residents have spent plenty of time and money to repair or replace items affected by the storms.

Businesses that rely on the weather are usually hit the hardest. For gardeners and greenhouses this spring has been frustrating, but not a total wash.

At Gale’s Garden Center, business is really picking up now that the sun and warmer weather are making an appearance. . . and so are the plants.

“With all of the rain and coolness, many of the plants have grown more slowly than usual because of too much moisture,” said Tracy Stier with Gale's.  “Some of them had poor development and fungal problems as well.  Now that the sun is out and things have dried out, the plants are bouncing back to where they should be at this time of year.”

Stier pointed out that petunias especially hate this these types of conditions, but are beginning to thrive now.

Employee Steve Galehouse also mentioned a few problems with some of the trees.

“Some types of trees, especially sycamore and hickory, were losing foliage due to the rough weather," he said. "During the last week or so, these trees are coming back around and growing nicely.”

Vegetables and herbs are both thriving, and Gale’s is having a sale on them, along with geraniums and perennials, to celebrate the arrival of the good weather.

Over at Dean’s Greenhouse, berries are the hot topic.  Employees confirm that the Ohio strawberry season is about ten days later than usual because of the constant storms and lower temperatures.  The berries officially arrive at Dean’s on June 4, and the following Saturday they will hold a workshop to teach the art of making strawberry freezer jam. Check their website to order strawberries or reserve a spot for the workshop.

Plants affected by the rainy spring may vary at other greenhouses and garden centers in the area. Be sure to check each individual location for more information as you get ready to plan for your yard and garden.