Spring Seedlings Have Sprung
As spring rolls in, gardeners are starting seeds and preparing beds for gardens of all sizes and varieties. Thankfully, the Pioneer Valley has a bounty of local greenhouses, garden centers, and landscapers to offer community members the option of buying locally grown seeds, starters, and plants.

Buying locally grown nursery stock from Local Hero garden centers means that you will get top-notch advice from garden professionals who understand the growing limitations of our region. Plus, plants grown and cared for in the area are more likely to thrive in your backyard. But most importantly, supporting these independent, locally-owned businesses means that you are investing in our local economy. Supporting local businesses involved in our agricultural community will ensure continued access to local products and will continue to strengthen the rural character of our region.

For the first time last season, CISA's Local Hero Program created a special enrollment category for garden centers and landscapers to become members. Membership is open to businesses that document significant efforts to purchase and promote locally grown nursery products. In the second year of this offering, we have more than enough Local Hero members to help you find nearly any garden supply!

To find locally-grown nursery products, take a look at our online Farm Products Guide, or browse through the guide by item:

• Bedding Plants
• Compost
• Daylilies
• Fruit and Berry Plants
• Hanging Baskets
• Herb Plants
• Nursery Stock
• Vegetable Starts