–by Jennifer Ruple
PUBLICATION DATE: April 12, 2021

Plant and flower farmer Devon Shaw is always hard at work, but I managed to steal 45 minutes of his time for a tour of his three greenhouses and an update on his plans for the season.
The 21-year-old creator and owner of The Soul Patch in Swanton, is ready to kick off his 4th year of participation at area farmers markets. His list of regular stops will include the Sylvania Farmers Market at its new location in Harroun Park, just a stone’s throw from Main Street shops and restaurants. “It looks like a nice place to hold it, and I’m looking forward to being there,” he commented.
Shaw had about a month off after the holiday greenery season to catch up on a little R and R, but by the first of February he was back at it, planting cuttings for his hanging baskets. “I’ve got 1,400 of them and about 3,000 perennials to bring to the markets,” he said. Shaw will also offer a variety of homegrown houseplants and succulents throughout the summer, and then it’s on to chrysanthemums and fall decor.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s growing at The Soul Patch.