So far we have had wind storms, sleet, and heavy rain as well as gentle showers, rainbows and warm sunshine. As the old saying goes, March—in like a lion out like a lamb. I would venture to say that the first part of that “old wife’s” equation is true as this year March has proved itself to be tempestuous to say the least. But I was in Victoria yesterday and the daffodils and plum blossoms are heralding the arrival of spring there. Here in the Cowichan Valley, depending where you are, many of the same blooms are not that far behind Victoria’s legendary spring display.

Of course, as I always say in our Old Farm Garden spring newsletter the one reliable sign of spring’s arrival in the Cowichan valley is our banner on the Trans Canada announcing “New Pots Are In.”. This  annual occurrence is always a time of great excitement and anticipation for all of the staff as we watch the containers being unloaded and then start to disassemble the pots stacked on the pallets. This year we have been lucky for the most part and we have managed to unpack and organize the pot displays on sunny days.

On our website www.oldfarmgarden.ca you can view the new colours and styles. For the past few years it has been difficult to source out blue pots, but we have found a new line and now have a lovely selection. Robin also managed to buy up the entire “Phoenician” collection and we have some absolutely stunning pots in this line. If you aren’t familiar with these pots, they look like they have been rescued from the ocean floor. They always elicit comments from our customers. Green is big this year and just like in nature we have a dazzling selection of varying greens—from bright apple green to deep mossy green and every green shade between.

Some of our customers are always on the lookout for lighter-weight pots and so are we. This season Robin found some “fiberclay” pots. These pots are formed from a mixture of, surprise! fibre and clay. They come in a neutral grey and are very architectural in style.

Of course, a garden centre newsletter wouldn’t be complete without some mention of plants. And what better plant is there for our island spring weather than the hellebore. Each year new hybrids are introduced and the colours and flower forms are evermore stunning. We have a lovely selection right now and more coming.

But as a loyal customer, you also know we have the best selection for the finishing touches to your garden . Containers add another dimension to your garden space, but for really adding your personal touches check out our wide selection of garden accessories. We have everything from the whimsical (gnomes!!) to the classical, so no matter what kind of personal statement you want your garden to reflect, we have something to help you to define it.

And remember, Robin, Lindy, Mel, Jean and Irene are here to help you realize your personal gardening goals. Bring us your pictures and ideas and we will help you to have the best garden ever.  Happy digging from all of us at the Old Farm Garden Centre.