We get lots of questions

here are some frequently asked ones


I work for a Non-Profit and am looking for a donation, how can I qualify?

We get a lot of donation requests every year and we try to accommodate where we can for local, non-profit organizations. If you think your non-profit may be eligible for a donation, please fill out this form, and either bring it by the store or email it to laura@forestlakegreenhouses.com. Please make your donation request at least 30 days in advanced, if your donation is approved you will be contacted. 

What’s the difference between an annual and a perennial?

Annuals are aggressive bloomers, they also have shallower roots. Annuals will add a lot of color all season, they will not return. A perennial is a deeper rooting plant that will come back over multiple seasons, they typically will have a shorter blooming period than annual flowers.

What do the sun requirements on the tags mean?

Full sun plants need to be in the afternoon sun, but will enjoy morning shade. Part-Sun plants want to be in morning sun, and afternoon shade. These plants will not enjoy being in the hot afternoon sun. All day sun plants want to be in direct sunlight all day, and yes, this means the grueling and brutal summer sun.

I’m just beginning, where do I start?

We love assisting new gardeners or houseplant parents, you are welcome to come by our store for a bit of questioning and answering with some of our experienced staff members. Many of our staff work in the industry because of their own passion for growing, they can share their personal stories, lessons, and key take-aways with you.

After chatting with you they can show you around the garden center and make plant and tool recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

How do I change my hydrangea’s color?

Generally speaking, acidic soil, with a pH lower than 6.0, yields blue or lavender-blue hydrangea blooms. Alkaline soil, with a pH above 7.0, promotes pinks and reds. With a pH between 6 and 7, the blooms turn purple or bluish-pink.

To lower your pH, add garden sulfur or aluminum sulfate to your soil. To raise the pH, use ground lime. Follow the directions on the product you use, and retest your soil to make sure the pH is in the range you want.

I need a gift! Can you help?

Yes! We have pre-made arrangements and gift baskets in the store all year. We also have staff members available on-site to create custom containers year-round. We even have cards and seasonal accessories to tailor your arrangement for any occasion or holiday. Stop by or call ahead, we are here to help!

What grows in this summer heat?

There is no doubt about it, our summers are HOT. Some plants that are full sun in some growing zones will need afternoon shade here due to our extremely high temperatures. Vinca, Penta, and Portulaca are some of our favorite summer flowers. You’ll need to keep an eye on your water levels, especially if your plants are in containers, they will need more water in the summer heat than they will in the spring or fall.

If you take an extended summer vacation away from home, make sure you have arrangements for someone to come water your plants or you might not like what you return to!

Do you landscape?

No, we do not landscape. Our services does include custom container landscaping, but this service is limited to arrangements in pottery and containers, not directly in the ground. However, we do have a list of trusted local landscapers, you can click here to find that list.

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