Touring Lancaster’s Best Greenhouses

One of the biggest attractions in Lancaster County are the greenhouses. Not the ones you may be used to though, these are off the beaten path in all corners of Lancaster and can often be hard to find. They are some of the finest this county offers, surrounded by farmland, picturesque views, and makes shopping for plants an unforgettable experience. Authentic Bed &Breakfasts of Lancaster County created a detailed list of some of our favorite places and we hope you enjoy them as much as we do. (It’s important to note that most of these are located on Amish farms, are not open Sundays, and often only take cash).
Black Creek Greenhouse (211 E. Black Creek Road, East Earl) This place seems to have everything, from fairy garden supplies to a large selection of herbs, perennials, decorations and more, you’ll love strolling through this greenhouse. You can also find new and unusual plants here. Hours are through June: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and July-December Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Briar Rose Greenhouses (581 Briertown Rd., East Earl) is more than just a greenhouse. It also has a little farm animal petting area, featuring different animals. They also offer a wide selection of plants and sell soil and mulch (all at reasonable prices). Briar Rose is open Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Country Lane Succulent Plants (152 Snyder Drive, New Holland) This farm features succulents and the owners’ half a dozen dogs, their puppies, a giant turkey, and sometimes cows and ducks. This place is overflowing with charm, artful plant decorations, and they reuse all sorts of items to plant succulents (my recent purchase was a tiny ceramic shoe stuffed with a variety of succulents for only $3) and their prices begin at $1.50. Hours are Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Groff’s Plant Farm (6128 Street Rd., Kirkwood) offers a large selection of annuals, perennials, veggies and more. They are extremely reasonably priced and now take credit and debit cards. They are open Monday-Friday 9 a.m-7 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Henry’s Farm and Greenhouses (1258 Oregon Hollow Road, Holtwood) opens April 26 and offers a huge variety of plants, vegetables, flowers, and unusual plants. This family-owned business is a favorite for many locals with beautiful grounds and views. Hours are Tuesday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. (through May 25).  

Herbal Springs Farmstead (447 Brossman Road, Ephrata) is a mecca for butterfly plants, native plants, annuals, herbs, edibles, unique plants, and much more and sits on a pristine Lancaster farm, where you’ll want to wonder around all day. Hours through June are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Pinewood and Posies, (4547 White Oak Road in Paradise) is simply breathtaking, with acres and acres of flowers to cut. Although their main focus is on flowers you can cut yourself, they do sell some other plants. This place is totally worth the visit, and you’ll be in awe of their gardens and little nooks and sitting areas along the way. Hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Shady Willow Greenhouse (338 Willow Road, Lancaster) offers customs planters, supplies, miniature garden trinkets, all sort of perennials and annuals and Christmas products. Shady Willow is open March-December and hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Zimmerman’s Greenhouse (421 Brossman Road, Ephrata) is quite the hidden gem. They feature reasonably priced flowers, veggies, potted flowers and much more. You can also bring your own pots and planters and the staff will fill it with flowers you purchased. Hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Next time you visit one of our inns, be sure to check out many of the greenhouses throughout the county, you'll certainly be glad you did! Happy gardening and planting!