Guest Blog by Joelle Lang
The History Behind It:
“When we were children our father instilled in us the importance of respect, politeness and honesty in our work. Our grandfather built this business on the principle of treating your customers like they are a guest in your own home.”
That statement was made by Brett Shorb, who co-owns the 90-year-old garden business, American Plant, along with his brothers Todd and Erik.
The brothers, standing on the shoulders of their grandfather and father, said that they believe the strong generational commitment to American Plant will allow for the company to continue thriving.
When the Shrob brother’s mother was diagnosed with cancer, the company began to place a large emphasis on removing chemical pesticides and fertilizers. They stand as the leader in chemical removal still today.
What’s It Like Today:
American Plant has two locations on River Road in Bethesda, serving the entire metro area form 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. everyday. They sell plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs as well as a line of tools, seeds, soils, and mulches. They also sell decorative items for the home. American Plant has a landscape design team that customizes outdoor spaces as well.
Tinge, the company’s lifestyle boutique, is just a few years old. While the company offered home décor items in the past, they have only recently build a separate space in their stores to showcase the boutique.
The store located at 5258 River Road is currently being redesigned.
American Plant has an active voice on social media, posting on Facebook and Twitter about garden facts, deals, and plant news almost daily.
What Makes It Special:
American Plant is a family-owned business. It is run by generations of passionate gardeners, and when a new generation begins to manage the company, a whole new set of goals, and idea come with them.
American Plant is full-service location both for inside and outdoor spaces, and they offer a large variety of specialty plants all year round.
About the Author
Joelle Lang, a senior at the University of Maryland, College Park, is a multi-platform journalism student in the Philip Merrill College of Journalism. This autumn, she is also an editorial intern for Washington Gardener Magazine.
"Local First Friday" is a weekly blog series profiling independent garden businesses in the greater Washington, DC, and Mid-Atlantic region. Washington Gardener Magazine believes strongly in supporting and sourcing from local businesses first!
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