Stuart Green Market regulars look forward to a visit with Connie Smith and learning exactly how to care for the plants she sells.  “This plant needs  lots of sun for the pineapple to ripen,”  Connie tells a customer.  Then adds with a smile, ” But make sure you pick it as soon as it is ripe or else someone else will get it.”

Seriously loves plants

Connie’s booth is always “just so,”  with straight lines of  exotics, ornamentals,  shrubs,  orchids,  vines and air plants.   She is all about presentation, but in a necessary way. Connie makes it easy for customers  to visualize how a plant might fit into whatever scheme  they are considering.  For those who can’t decide, she helps, by giving them an overview on the plant’s needs, what to expect in growth, foliage and longevity. A customer may feel like they are adopting a plant and some added nurturing responsibility.  Nothing wrong with that, according to Connie.

The everyday and something new

Some plants are year round regulars for Florida landscapes. Bromeliads tend to bloom just about anytime, but pineapple plants have a fleeting season. Connie maintains a balance of always having some plants available, while doing her best to offer varieties that are more seasonal.

Connie’s Produce can also be found at theFort Pierce Farmers Market on Saturdays.