Hi! My name is Shawna Anderson and I am the head of Orchard Nursery & Florist’s Custom Container Department.
How long have you been working at Orchard Nursery & Florist?
Since July of 2004.
What is your favorite part about working here?
There are many reasons why I love working here, but if I have to pick just one, it's the plants. Every season there's something in bloom and being the flower "floozy" that I am, I just love them and want them all!
What's new in the Custom Container Department?
There are some really cool wavy containers we just got in lime green, white and orange that are perfect for succulents.
What are some of your favorite plants to work with and why?
My favorite "fillers" for sun will always be Nemesia; they come in a wide range of colors and bloom for a long period (with deadheading of course)! My absolute favorite "spiller" is Calibrachoa aka Million Bells; I love their prolific long-lasting blooms and they don't need deadheading!
What are some upcoming projects you are excited about?
Planting up herb baskets and boxes for summer parties!
What is your favorite season and why?
Spring. Song of Solomon said it best, "For lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land."
What is your favorite vegetable to grow and cook with and why?
Oh, it just so hard to pick one favorite! It's got to be Romanesco Cauliflower; it's a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. I usually sauté it in olive oil, a few pepper flakes and a pinch of sea salt, but last winter I sliced it thin and roasted it and used it as a pizza topping--amazing! I also learned from a customer a few years ago that the leaves are just as good (they have a nutty flavor), and I've been sautéing them the same way ever since. Delicious!
What do you do in your spare time - any hobbies?
Spare time? Haha! When I'm not here or at a client's home for a Thrillers, Fillers and Spillers consultation, I'm in my garden or watching the Warriors. They've been my team since I was 8 years old and I've watched them lose a lot of games over the years, so these past few years have been exciting and awesome to watch!
What is something that people might not know about you?
I became a semi-professional billiards player in 2000. Don't bet against me on the pool table :)