Wheeling’s small business scene is continuing to grow and I am rooting for Lush Leaf Plant House.
Before I even stepped inside this adorable shop I could see that lush is the name for a reason. Owner Gabrielle Robinson offers an amazing variety of plants including the hard-to-find Monestera Albo and combo hanging baskets, some with 12 varieties of plants including the Silver Stripe and Sawtooth Philodendron. She purchases plants for the shop as well as thoughtfully propagates plants herself to get the coolest variegation and color.
Gabrielle, who comes from a family of green thumbs, grew up in upstate New York where farms and farmers markets were abundant. Houseplants were a yearly Easter gift from her father and as she grew her knowledge of care and love of plants grew with her. Growing up in an area that was largely known for farming, she was used to purchasing plants, pumpkins and produce directly from the growers. Upon moving to Wheeling 6 years ago she realized that the only local choices for plant babies were the big box stores. When a friend told her that this cozy greenhouse, located at 1200 Valley View Avenue was for rent, she jumped at the chance to bring something better to the plant parents of Wheeling.
Lush Leaf Plant House is located at 1200 Valley View Avenue in Wheeling.
Her aim is to offer customers “rare plants you can’t find and common houseplants that are hard to find locally.” She wants to provide not only a wider variety than in larger stores, but also plants that have been meticulously taken care of to ensure the best start in their new homes. Better plants for a better price as well as soils, fertilizers and organic pest treatment for all your plant needs. Gabrielle looks forward to holding “Plant and Sips” in the space to teach plant care and propagation techniques, as well as offering seasonal items in the fall and winter. Gabrielle has big plans for 2024 including more annuals, herbs and loads of colorful hanging baskets.
The Lush Leaf Plant House Grand Opening will be held on Thursday, May 4 at 10 a.m. with giveaways throughout the day and the first 10 customers will receive a free gift. Be sure to stop by with your best buds! Regular hours will be Thursday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lush Leaf Plant House is located at 1200 Valley View Avenue in Wheeling. You can stay up-to-date with all things plants by following Lush Leaf Plant House on Facebook and Instagram.
• Libbi Gramby is the owner of Table 304, a grazing board and coffee shop located in Downtown Wheeling. Her mission through Table 304 is to gather food and drink to create community and conversation throughout the Ohio Valley by bringing many tastes to one common table. Libbi is passionate about small business and supporting other Wheeling-based entrepreneurs.