Christmas ‘unwraps’ at Landscape Garden Centers as trees arrive and store transforms

This paid piece is sponsored by Landscape Garden Centers.

‘Tis the season to think Christmas while finishing up fall, with a big transformation waiting for you at Landscape Garden Centers.

“We closed our store a couple weeks ago and wrapped up our regular retail season – literally putting wrapping paper on our windows – and now we’re back, reopened and have completely flipped the store over from everyday and fall to Christmas,” said Laura Kalfs, the garden center manager.

Landscape Garden Centers is still able to take care of your fall cleanups, irrigation shutdowns and final landscaping needs, thanks to the unseasonable nice forecast, but otherwise “we are focusing on the Christmas season and encourage you to be as well because starting early has a lot of advantages,” she said.

When you visit Landscape Garden Centers at 47238 271st St. just south of Sioux Falls, you’ll find “we’ve turned the store into a winter wonderland,” Kalfs said.

Artificial Christmas trees ranging from 3 to 12 feet are available in the store, including many that are decorated so you can envision how they might look in your home or business.

“It’s hard to tell that these are artificial trees,” Kalfs said. “The quality of the material is so incredible that many of our customers have had theirs for more than 20 years. That’s how well made they are.”

The quality also means you won’t see shedding needles or worry about lighting issues after limited use, she added.

“It’s an investment, but they’re that high quality in that they are going to last you a very long time with minimal need for maintenance,” Kalfs said.

The retail store also is filled with decor to use inside and out, including unlimited options for picks, berries and pine cones to customize your arrangements.

“I think the warm, neutral tones are still on trend, although people are starting to welcome a little more color back into Christmas as well,” Kalfs said.

Pick up a new tabletop decoration or other holiday decor for your home or office too.

“We still see vintage Christmas decor being very popular, so we have options for that, and it’s fun because you can browse the store and put together your own theme or pick pieces to combine with decor you already enjoy,” Kalfs said.

Head into the attached greenhouse and you’ll find it filled with live holiday decor, including wreaths, containers and garlands.

“We have a huge variety,” Kalfs said. “We can help you put an arrangement together, you can purchase a pre-made container, or you can even create a container for yourself at an upcoming workshop. They’re very popular, so we encourage you to sign up soon.”

Landscape Garden Centers also hosts a variety of special events this time of year, she said.

“I have multiple private events already, everything from a company party to a baby shower, and they’re both focused on doing make-and-takes,” Kalfs said. “We still have some capacity but again encourage you to reach out soon.”

And speaking of getting a head start on the holiday, in the second greenhouse, freshly delivered Christmas trees are waiting.

“They just arrived from Washington state, and we have a list of people to call who are already interested in knowing when they can come pick their tree out,” Kalfs said.

“My advice is to shop early, especially if you’re looking for an 8-foot tree or larger. We pride ourselves on outstanding large trees, but they are in high demand from both businesses and homeowners, so they’re going to go quickly.”

The trees available at Landscape Garden Centers are cut the week before they ship, instead of a month plus in advance like you might find elsewhere, she added.

“They are fresh cut, they are full of moisture, and so with the right care, there’s no issue buying your tree now and having it last easily through Christmas,” Kalfs said.

“We will give it a fresh cut in the store, or you can, but once it’s fresh cut, you have to get it in the tree stand within 30 to 45 minutes and continue to consistently give it warm water. I have no problem keeping mine looking great for at least a month and a half. The key is to keep your tree hydrated and that tree stand full of water. The temperature of your home, amount of lights on your tree and location in your home (near heat vents, in a south or west window, etc.) can also affect the longevity of your tree.”

The greenhouse includes unique varieties of trees, from traditional Fraser to Nordmann and Noble firs.

“They’re literally hanging from the greenhouse ceiling, so they’re open, and you can spin them around and really know what you’re getting instead of buying a tree that’s netted up,” Kalfs added.

“We’ll even deliver and set up the tree for you if you’d like as one of our many holiday services we offer. Be sure to stop in to learn more.” 

Mark your calendar

Sign up now for these upcoming events, which are likely to sell out!

Winter Container Workshop: Nov. 23

From 2 to 3:15 p.m., choose a container and browse a selection of artificial branches, seasonal picks, berries and ornaments to personalize your arrangement with help from the Landscape Garden Centers experts.

Click here to learn more and sign up.

Birch Log Bundle Workshop: Nov. 23

From 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., design your own unique birch log bundle! These natural creations are ideal for front steps, under the tree or on the hearth, adding a special touch to your celebrations this season.

With the guidance of the talented staff, you’ll enhance your bundle with seasonal ribbon, berries and greens.

Click here to learn more and sign up.

Workshops are held in November and December along with other special events, so click here for the latest offerings.

Current Landscape Garden Centers hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Extended hours are offered the week of Nov. 18, 25 and Dec. 2.  Landscape Garden Centers is closed on Thanksgiving Day.