Plant Paradise

It might be muddy outside, but Shields Herb and Flower Farm, tucked away along PA-218 just across the WV line, already bursts with color.

Owned and operated by the Shields family, this nursery is a dream come true for any plant lover. They don't use any chemicals, and because they utilize compost, reuse pots and start many of their plants from seeds or cuttings the prices are very affordable.

In addition to the affordable prices, I appreciate their methods from a sustainable point of view. They also keep the greenhouses just above freezing in the winter making the plants hardy, and saving energy.

While the name of the business may seem specialized, Shields in fact has an incredibly wide variety of species; everything from water plants to vegetables to shade plants to succulents, and everything in between. Including herbs and flowers, of course.

One of my favorite herbs - scented geraniums - can be hard to find. Shields Herb and Flower Farm has three tables full of a wide variety of scented geraniums. Currently, I have two of them in my kitchen window - lemon and lemon rose.

If you visit Shields Herb and Flower Farm, don't miss their accompanying winery - sample melomel, which they age in bourbon barrels inside one of the greenhouses, and buy a few bottles to take home along with your plants.

If you aren't already planning a trip to Spraggs to visit the nursery, I hope the photos below will tip the scale for you. Although I have to admit, they hardly do the Herb and Flower Farm justice.