Floral

Easy Orchids

Easy Orchids are produced by Green Circle Growers in Oberlin, OH, a multi-generational family-owned wholesale greenhouse operation.  Green Circle Growers came about in the 1960’s, when Art and Cora vanWingerden emigrated from Holland and settled in North Olmsted, Ohio.  With just three acres of greenhouses, they began their horticulture business and taught their 16 children how to produce plants.  While all the others have taken their expertise to other regions of the United States, one son, John, stayed.

Today, three generations later, John and many of his 8 children manage over 110 acres that make up Green Circle Growers and are committed to introducing fresh new ideas to the market place while utilizing production methods that are efficient and environmentally conscious.

Orchids are a new venture for Green Circle Growers.  Typically orchids in the U.S. are grown in warm climates such as Florida or California, however in Europe the 90% of potted orchids are produced in Holland, the “Ohio” of Europe.  Having an orchid production facility in the Midwest makes sense on numerous levels:

Cool northern growing conditions increases orchid longevity, so they will remain in bloom and be enjoyed for months!

A naturally cooled greenhouse is more environmentally friendly then greenhouses located in warmer climates which require constant air-conditioning year-round.

More efficient distribution to northern states can be gained with a greenhouse facility located in Ohio, which reduces the orchid’s carbon footprint.

The brand “Easy Orchids” is exclusive to Green Circle Growers and was created to demonstrate to consumers that caring for and enjoying orchids is “Easy” and not intimidating. 

Simple Care Instructions for your Easy Orchid:

Easy Orchids will thrive in any home or office environment where there is bright, in-direct light at a temperature that is comfortable to you (65 to 80 degrees F).  Place your Easy Orchid in a similar location where you would enjoy an African violet.  The most important aspect for keeping your Easy Orchid flourishing is consistent watering.  We’ve made this “easy” by following this simple rule of thumb: “3 ice cubes per week”.  Any averaged sized ice cubes will do.  The ice will not harm the leaves or roots and it releases water overtime, so there are no concerns of over-watering.  To learn more about Easy Orchids, visit: www.myeasyorchid.com and sign up for an automatic care reminder.

Longer Lasting Flowers Arrive at Heinen’s

Heinen’s Fine Foods introduces the highest grade floral, Fair Trade Certified? Flowers to their stores.

Fair Trade Certified Flowers offer exceptional quality along with bigger blooms with higher petal count, and unique and wonderful fragrances. Fair Trade Certified Roses remain on the plant 3-4 days longer than a “normal” rose and are harvested at the precise moment to provide the consumer the longest vase life, brightest colors and largest head size. The flowers are hand picked and will go from the fields to a Heinen’s location in under 3 days.

Fair Trade Certified flower growers are located in Ecuador, Colombia and Africa and produce more than a billion stems every year in hundreds of varieties. They use natural pesticides, build soil fertility, and support the plants' natural defenses. Fair Trade Certified Roses are grown high in Ecuador’s Andes Mountains at elevations above 10,000 feet. Here the roses are grown in volcanic soil which contains more acidity and are exposed longer to ultra violet light and non-fluctuating temperatures which result in a heartier, more vibrant rose.

A portion of each sale goes toward creating a better life for the farm communities where the flowers are grown. It provides a guarantee that workers will receive fair wages, protection from harmful pesticides, childcare and schooling for their children, paid maternity, vacation and sick leave, a premium of each sale to invest in community development, and training to implement development projects of their choosing.

Fresh—Pick Me!

We blooming believe in all things floral. It began about 25 years ago when a Heinen’s produce manager bought some carnations to sell among the veggies. Turns out, it blossomed into more than we ever imagined!

Each of our stores has a garden to go, full of FRESH florals and plants at excellent, everyday prices. That’s because we buy directly from growers whenever possible, many of them local. The flowers are delivered quickly and efficiently to our stores—at lower cost and under optimal conditions.

Unless you make the trip to the farm or greenhouse yourself, we don’t believe you’ll find fresher flowers or plants anywhere. Watch for seasonal selections to brighten your home—or anyone’s day!