A Time of Traditions at Behnkes

They say that life is all about change but there is something about about tradition. Each year we have our 4 seasons. We all know them–Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall.

At Behnke’s, we also have a 5th season called “Thanksgiving/Christmas.” For me, that is a time of traditions. For as long as I can remember there has been a certain order of events at the garden center as we convert from Fall to the new season.

We move the potted shrubs, trees and perennials to make room for the fresh-cut Christmas Trees and greens. We decorate, set up displays, and hang lights all over the garden center. We “Aaahh” over the new poinsettias as they begin arriving. This week two new varieties in fall colors, called Autumn Leaves and Orange Spice, showed up.

We plan our company Thanksgiving lunch and share past memories of our own families’ Thanksgiving dinners. Then the anticipation builds as the first Christmas Cactus and cyclamen arrive. Of course there is also our Christmas Shop. This year we have the German collectibles that have long been a tradition to many families along with new MADE IN THE USA decorations.

When you come to visit us during the next few weeks, I think you too will get caught up in the excitement. Walk in, close your eyes for a few seconds and take a big deep breath and release it while opening your eyes. Relax and enjoy the sights and scents of tradition.

By Stephanie Fleming, Behnke Nurseries

Stephanie Fleming

Stephanie Fleming was raised at Behnke’s Nurseries in Beltsville. Her Mom, Sonja, was one of Albert & Rose Behnke’s four children. She was weeding from the moment she could walk and hiding as soon as she was old enough to run, so many weeds, so little time. Although she quickly learned how to pull out a perennial and get taken off of weed pulling duty.