Recently, Carol Watson has noticed a shift. Younger people, especially, are showing more interest in gardening.
“I get a lot of younger people in now that will tell me they’re starting gardens. Most of my customers are very conscious of what’s happening and what we need to do to slow it down and change it. They understand the value of trees and all sorts of plants,” Watson said.
During cold, winter mornings in Central New York, the doors of Carol Watson Greenhouse open to warm air, rows of plants, and the smell of flowers. For many, it’s an escape from the long winters. For owner, Carol Watson, it’s also a way to share her love of plants with the community.
Rooted in Family
The greenhouse started in 1981, founded by Watson’s mother Claire. A decade later, Carol joined, after studying retail at Syracuse University and working in department stores.
“It grew because she loved what she was doing. And it continues to grow because my staff and I love it,” said Watson.
The business hasn’t always been easy. A family dispute forced them to relocate and rebrand in the 1990s, adopting the name Carol Watson Greenhouse.
“We sort of had to start from scratch again, which we did because my mother, she was a tough lady, and I’m a tough girl, too,” Watson said.
More Than a Greenhouse
That toughness paid off. The greenhouse is now a year-round business, but beyond plants, it has become a community gathering space. Over the years, the greenhouse has supported nonprofits, hosted fundraisers, and welcomed school field trips. Workshops and classes, which began in the 1990s, remain a popular way to teach gardening.
“When we do terrariums, it’s a great time to teach how to take care of the plants,” Watson said.
“Pull the root ball apart gently and how to water them. That’s ongoing. We do that seven days a week.”
Sustainability and Growing Local
For Watson, sustainability is central to their mission. She encourages customers to start gardens, grow vegetables, and shop locally.
“If you raise your own vegetables and have a garden, you’re not going to be driving to the grocery store as often,” she said.
“The greenhouse is a good example of what you can do. We raise all sorts of vegetables, and we even do it in a very small space.”
An Oasis in Winter
During the long Central New York winters, the greenhouse offers a place for people to recharge. Watson recalled inviting local families and their dogs to walk inside during the cold weather. The greenhouse has even hosted dinner parties and baby showers.
“The humidity makes people feel so good and it’s so good for you,” she said.
“We’re an oasis and we want people to enjoy the greenhouse. You bring a book, bring your book club. There’s so many different things you can do here. So it’s just a great place for all ages and you don’t have to decorate it. It’s done,” said Watson.
For the Future
More than 40 years later, Carol Watson Greenhouse is still blooming. Looking ahead, Watson isn’t aiming for expansion, but for steady care.
“We’ve got enough to handle without getting bigger. It’s not always better. We just want to take good care of our plants and our people, our customers,” said Watson.