spring

Everything Meaningful Takes Time

Everything meaningful takes time.

- Brianna Wiest

Owning a retail nursery in northern Iowa definitely comes with its challenges, and one of the toughest hurdles to overcome is our reliance on the weather. Every day, it seems like Mother Nature is reminding us who's really in charge, and spoiler alert—it's not us! As much as we'd love to control the elements, the reality is, we're just along for the ride. As humans, we hate that. We think that if we are in control life is easier (but that’s actually not true!)

Embrace the Unknown

Owning Natural Plus has taught us the art of embracing uncertainty and having faith that things unfold in their own time. We live seasonally and cyclically, even when the rest of the world may be doing something different. A mantra we often repeat to ourselves, especially amidst the whirlwind of spring, is "I'm in no rush." It's not just a saying; it's a mindset we fully embody. If you've ever interacted with us, you've probably noticed our deliberate pace—we take our time to respond and prioritize plant care and serving our in-person customers.

Working with plants, which are living beings, brings both immense satisfaction and a fair share of challenges - the plants need daily care and attention, hello water!! 💦 We pride ourselves in having healthy plants for you to take home and enjoy for years.

 “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished”

-Lao Tzu

Plants Take Their Time

If you've ever visited our nursery during the vibrant buzz of spring, you've felt the contagious energy in the air. Yet, what truly captivates us is the gentle pace of nature. Here, time seems to stretch and bend to the rhythm of the plants. They bloom at their own leisure, rest when needed, and never rush through life's seasons. Next time you’re here, slow down, enjoy being outside, take notice of the smells of the blooms, the sounds of the birds, and savor the colors and textures of all of our offerings. And don't forget to give Sunny a belly rub—trust me, she'll love you forever!

The logistics and frenzy of spring has always been one of our biggest stresses (and also blessings!). From deciding when to open our doors to coordinating employee schedules and managing shipments, it's been quite the learning journey for us. But you know what? We're beyond thankful for our incredible team and loyal customers who navigate this journey with kindness, patience, and flexibility. They understand that when you're in sync with nature and the Earth, rushing is simply not an option.

Spring is coming, I promise. 

So as we sit here at the end of March watching the snow fall, we know, spring is coming. It always does, exactly when it's good and ready. In the meantime, slow down and enjoy the beauty of nature's transition; embrace the waiting game as anticipation of spring’s color and vibrancy builds.

What to Consider When Planting a Magnolia

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If you have seen some trees in bloom this week, they are probably Magnolias. Typically magnolias bloom early spring before they set leaves. Blooms are usually large and cup-shaped.

Up until a generation ago, magnolias were not hardy here in North Iowa. But growers have now been able to identify some north hardy varieties. If you are looking to purchase a magnolia, make sure they are hardy for zone 4 or less.

Because magnolias bloom early, they are susceptible to late spring frosts. Planting in a more protected spot is a good idea. If a frost is suspected, spraying the trees with water the evening before the frost may help protect buds and blooms from frost damage.

The varieties available this year at the nursery are:

·      Gold Star Magnolia- Lemon yellow flowers, grow 20-30’

·      Royal Star Magnolia –  White fragrant blooms early spring; grow 10-15’ tall

·      Ann Magnolia- Large purple reddish blooms early spring; grows 10-15”

·      Jane Magnolia- Flowers purple changing to white, grow 10-15’

·      Sunburst Magnolia-Lemon yellow flowers in spring, grow 30’