The Holly & The Ivy

25% off ALL plants* & bagged EarthMix® Garden™

When I was in the school choir, we did a winter event called a Madrigal. For the uninitiated, madrigals originate in renaissance Italy as an early form of secular music. One of the most memorable songs we sang was “The Holly and The Ivy”. While I couldn’t understand why these two plants were worth singing about, the lyrics still rang around in my head. How did these plants come to embody Christmastime?

From the Romans to the Celts and Druids, holly has long been held dear in the winter months. It was believed the evergreen leaves and red berries could protect one’s home from evil spirits and welcome good fortune in the coming year. Often seen growing intertwined, ivy and holly represented a balance of masculine and feminine as well as a harmonious household. Their deep green leaves throughout the winter were seen as a sign of beauty and hope in weary winter months. We continue this tradition by bringing in garland, wreaths, and trees to enliven and enrich our homes.

As the reds and oranges of fall fade, you may be tempted to add some of Holly’s emerald tones to your own landscape. Whether you desire the majesty of a variegated English Holly or your very own Christmas Jewel, we have a fabulous selection of hollies of all varieties. This week, all plants* AND bags of EarthMix Garden are 25% off! If you need something more stocking sized, we have both physical and online gift cards for the loved ones on your list. And if you just can’t bear the cold, fret not, our 20% off** Cyber Sale goes every Sunday through December!

That’s it for this week, friends. Make sure to check out the Gardening Inside Out gang Saturday mornings at 8 am, and download the podcast for your next adventure. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see what’s happening behind the scenes & get your questions answered. Stay warm, and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Happy Gardening,

Sara Bates

*excluding Japanese maples, in store only through 12/11

**excluding Japanese maples, giftcards, and deliveries