If you think dandelions are persistent, you should meet my readers. No, they’re not a bunch of weeds. And though I sensed a little bitterness this week, that’s not what I mean, either. They’ve got deep roots. And once they have found a spot they like, they are not about to budge.

The gardeners who read this column are so passionate about where they shop for plants that I’d be remiss not to include their recommendations. And trust me, I heard recommendations. Lots of ’em.

Here’s what happened: Last Saturday, I wrote a “Gardens to Go” column based on a tour of favorite greenhouses that I organized for my garden group. By the time I got back to work on Monday, I had e-mails and voice mails from readers asking, “Why didn’t you include so-and-so?”

My answer? There are dozens of garden centers and only one of me. And besides, the tour took a full eight hours (and I covered more than 60 miles) as it was.

I’m not easily swayed, but the more I heard about these places, the more convinced I became that I needed to write about them. And let’s be honest here, folks: Do I even need an excuse to do more shopping for plants and garden goodies? I think not. So it was with great excitement that I hit the road to visit some of your favorites, dear readers. Not surprisingly, some of them are now my favorites, too.

So without further ado, I present round two of the “Gardens to Go” extravaganza. If I left out your favorite spot, I sincerely apologize. And I also invite you to write all about it on the ShopBlog. But I regret to say I will not be doing a round three. Well, at least not this year. I’m running out of room in the garden (and don’t even get me started on the dandelions!).

Always Green

Route 1A, Winterport, 223-5900

At this adorable country cottage in Winterport, owners Judy Kirk and George “Bud” Jordan share the fun. Kirk specializes in overflowing window boxes – she has been known to make them up in people’s tailgates while they wait – as well as glorious annuals and tasteful containers to put them in. Jordan takes care of the hardscaping, including stone walls and paved patios. Together, they’re trying to grow this year-old business into a three-season destination, with fall mums and pumpkins, as well as trees and wreaths for the holidays.

Ledgewood Gardens

563 Johnson Mill Road, Orrington, 825-4707

This cool business is way, way, way off the beaten path – and worth every twist and turn in the road. Owner Karen Ramsey, her sister and her mother treat every customer like family. I grabbed a pink delphinium and a perennial poppy, but annual-loving gardeners will find a generous selection as well. While you ‘re there, check out the herbs and heirloom veggies.

Wiswell Farms

109 River Road, Orrington, 989-7546

The first question you’ll ask yourself when you arrive is, “So, how did I not know this was here?” Wiswell Farms has been around for 25 years, and it is huge. And by huge, I mean ENORMOUS. Every one of its long greenhouses is packed with healthy annuals and wonderful vegetables – including some new-to-me varieties such as the black cherry tomato and the early Oregon spring tomato.

Enchanted Gardens

186 Green Point Road, Brewer, 989-2130

Marian Jerome and her parents, Stan and Jerri White, have amassed an impressive array of container plants from around the world – including loads that I’ve never seen before. Check out the “Scaredy Cat” coleus, which repels cats, dogs and rabbits with its skunky scent. Looking for something a little more pleasant? Try the giant Gerbera daisy spinners – the blooms look like pompoms. Or, stock up on affordable four-packs of popular annuals such as begonias or Wave petunias. Stan is a sweetheart, and he knows what he grows.

Hummingbird Hollow

874 Main Road (Route 1A), Holden 843-0653

This tidy, well-organized greenhouse boasts a nice nursery selection and some of the most beautiful container plantings I’ve seen. If perennials are more your speed, check out the native, organic offerings from Rebel Hill Farm, located in nearby Clifton.

Rideout Gardens

264 Main Road (Route 9), Eddington, 843-7462

If ever a garden center had a devoted following, Rideout Gardens is it. And it’s easy to see why: The plants are healthy, the selection is varied and large, and the staff is top-notch. While I was there, I picked up a Jacob’s Ladder, which I’ve wanted forever, and a flat of romaine. Owners Bob and Carol Solinger told me the offerings are even better earlier in the season, so next year, I’m starting May 1.

Ellis’ Greenhouse & Nursery

Route 43, Hudson, 327-4674

Walk into any of the greenhouses here and someone will answer all your questions. Which is great if, say, you have a problem with powdery mildew. Owner Kirby Ellis wholesales to area greenhouses, so you know the offerings will perform. I was especially impressed with the vegetable and herb seedlings, and Ellis even has asparagus starts.

The Green House at Black Bear Lawn Care

1320 Stillwater Ave., Bangor, 945-3414

This business has grown from a landscaping and hardscaping service to a full-scale nursery. Check out the healthy, well-priced selection of woody plants and Proven Selections perennials. I couldn’t resist the just-released “Oranges & Lemons” Gaillardia, which boasts beautiful, tangerine-toned flowers. In addition, there’s a full-service florist and gift shop.

Glenburn Gardens

14 Kelly Road (at Union Street), Glenburn, 884-8884

Owners Dick and Loann Smith decided they couldn’t compete with Kmart and Wal-Mart’s offerings of low-priced annuals, so they chose to do something that would set them apart. They certainly succeeded with their 6-foot-tall tomato plants, which already are bearing fruit. If you buy one, they’re $27. More than that, $25 apiece. Eating fresh tomatoes in June? Priceless.

Witherly’s Greenhouse and Garden Center

From the road, Witherly’s looks tiny. Don’t let that fool you. Once you’re inside, it seems to go on forever, and that’s a good thing. The nursery selection is so diverse that there’s an old-fashioned road sign to help you figure out where you’re headed. I’m wild about the flowering almond bush, and next time, I’ll bring my checkbook so I can buy one (Witherly’s doesn’t take credit or debit cards). I was equally impressed by the shop, which is loaded with practical goods that every gardener needs.

Talk to us

ShopGirl would love to hear from you! Send questions, comments or suggestions by e-mail to: kandresen@bangordailynews.net, by U.S. mail to Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402-1329, or by fax to 941-9476. For exclusive online shopping tips, click on the ShopBlog icon on the bottom of the BDN homepage: bangordailynews.com.