Wilson’s Garden Center Specializes in Plants that Thrive in Central Ohio

Wilson’s Garden Center Newark Entrance

When Carl & Helen Wilson began their small, family-owned farm market in 1958 they grew and sold vegetables such as tomatoes, melons & sweet corn to the public and local businesses. They had no idea that 50 years later their small market would grow into a greenhouse range and garden center that provides the Central Ohio area with a huge selection of flowers and plants. Wilson’s grows and sells thousands of kinds of plants and employs up to 60 people throughout the busy season. The goal has always been to provide the very best quality possible at a reasonable price.

One of the first large greenhouses was built in 1978 and Wilson's has been growing steadily ever since. Wilson's now has a total of 28 greenhouses to grow the wide assortment of annuals, perennials, herbs, roses, vegetables, garden mums, Easter lilies, poinsettias, water plants, trees, and shrubs. As the business grew to encompass all areas of the gardening industry, it was decided to discontinue the farm market portion of the business in 1986. That same year, the beautiful display gardens were established. Not only enjoyed for its sheer beauty, the display gardens are a valuable resource. Many new varieties of plants are trialed in the gardens allowing us to choose what will grow best for our customers. Also, many people, young and old alike, utilize the display gardens as an outdoor learning classroom. Most plants are labeled enabling plant enthusiasts to identify plants in their mature (or near mature) state.

The business is now headed by the second generation of Wilsons. Ned, Harry, and Mitzie (Ned’s wife) run the day-to-day operations with the help of many able managers and staff. Brian Wilson (Ned and Mitzie’s son) and his wife Holly are ready to assume leadership in the near future.