I have to admit I am very surprised Tri-County Greenhouse was not listed in Yelp. This small nursery next to the UConn Depot campus has been in business for over 30 years and it packs a big punch. Open year-round, Tri-County offers a staggeringly large selection of perennials, annuals, vegetables, herbs, and hanging baskets. They grow everything from seed (when possible) or baby plugs, and they will take special requests for the following year. So if there is some special type of peony or hosta or whatever that you've been looking for but can't find, make a request and you'll be able to pick one up next year (sorry you have to wait, but good things are worth waiting for). Their prices are reasonable and the staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful. I've had excellent help from the manger, Chris Campbell, as well as other staff.
One of my favorite things, though, about Tri-County Greenhouse is that they are a private non-profit (part of ARC Connecticut) that works with adults with developmental disabilities. They train and employ a team of friendly and hardworking people with disabilities. On my most recent visit I chatted with a young lady about how wonderful it must be to work at such a lovely place. She commented that she would die if she couldn't be there and that she loved her job. While that may be a bit dramatic, I appreciate the sentiment.
What you will not find here is a selection of fertilizers, yard tools, gardening books, etc., but there are plenty of places to get those things. This place is strictly plants. Stop by during the holidays and pick up poinsettias and a lovely wreath for your door. Stop by during Spring and Summer and smell the flowers (and maybe come home with a few). read more