Figure 1. Fort Valley, VA
Note. Image retrieved from tripadvisor.com
Serving as the home to a diverse ecosystem of businesses, Woodstock offers an extensive range of products and leisure activities. Along with a wide selection of trees, shrubs, and house plants, the location contains a garden shop that carries supplies and unique gifts. You’re in USDA Zone 6a and so you may need advice on how and what you can grow in this beautiful valley.
History of the Location
Until 2008, farmland covered this area. The original location of the business was opened in 1984 by owners Terry and Randy Fogle and Warren Schennum. Started originally to serve as a wholesale grower in hopes of selling local plants to retailers, the business evolved when the owners realized a need for a local plant retail service in the community. In its beginnings, the business was unique in that the garden center was owned by individuals with college degrees, including those in forestry, biology, and horticulture. This ensured that the staff were trained to teach best management practices to customers, and that sustainable practices were passed on through each transaction. Looking to expand, the current location on Hisey Avenue was bought in 2007 and built in 2008 on five acres of land.
Community Engagement
With generations of history, the Fogle family is highly connected to the Woodstock area. As a result, the business interacts with the community in several ways. Before the pandemic, many seminars were held with different speakers and master gardeners. Moreover, the business has also had many local projects with municipalities. Designed to hold large events after hours, the venue takes advantage of its natural beauty to hold weddings and special celebrations. Homeline products, garden-themed gifts, and a children's bookstore create a lively space accompanied by the Garden Cafe.
Sustainable Practices in Fort Valley
This location sources plants from mostly local and state growers in order to sell plants that are most suited to the Virginia climate. Emphasizing organic methods and the use of natural fertilizers and minimal pesticides, this location only sells organic and natural products to its customers, ensuring that the community stays sustainable and healthy.
Interacting with the Local Environment
Retail nurseries in the area like this one located in hardiness zone 6a mostly carry plants that suit this climate. Carrying plants that are grown natively means that they are not nearly as ornamental as other varieties. The surrounding environment is improved by the business because it replants species needed in the area that are beneficial for pollinators, while increasing local diversity. The plants that need less care have less issues with insects and require less resources. The trained staff help teach people proper planting techniques, such as planting depth, watering, fertilizing, and reducing stress on the environment.
There are countless benefits to gardening. Obvious ones include increased oxygen production and taking carbon dioxide out of the air. Increased vegetation reduces runoff water, reduces temperatures, and provides habitats for wildlife. The business helps install permeable pavers, honey bee gardens, and rain gardens to help manage runoff and increase pollination.
References
Fogle, J. (2022, March). Personal communication [In-person interview].
Fort Valley Nursery | Garden Center | Shenandoah County, Woodstock, VA. (n.d.). Fort Valley Nursery. Retrieved March 10, 2022, from https://www.fortvalleynursery.com/
Stock Photo. (2022). 123RF. https://www.123rf.com/photo_57525698_outdoor-plant-nursery.html