Saying Good Bye to Chalk Hill Clematis

When I wrote my editorial Clematis and the Economy in the last issue of this journal I had no idea that Chalk Hill Clematis Nursery would be closing its doors.  I do not know why they are closing, all I can say is that it is a terrible SHAME it is happening!!!   I also cannot begin to convey to you the “Great Sorrow” I felt when I first learned that they are quitting the business.  After getting to know Murray Rosen, the manager of the farm who is a kind and generous person, the loss for me feels even greater.

Americans are worried about so many things right now (many of which we have no control over) and we tend to forget about patronizing our wonderful Mom & Pop nurseries and independent clematis growers.  These people have limited resources, so they really need our business during this difficult time.  I am deeply concerned about the fate of the pioneers that grow and sell clematis as it is a labor intensive crop.  Please do not let all the negative news stop you from purchasing clematis from your favorite nurseries.  I believe if we are complacent now we will end up with more closings and then our only resource to purchase our “babies” will be from the big box stores.  So, if you think your selection is limited now in the U.S., just wait until there are only one or two suppliers that just sell exclusively to big box stores and a few of the larger wholesale nurseries that can afford to pay the royalties on an exclusive crop of patented clematis.  At that point, there will no doubt be slim pickings when it comes to the choices available when selecting our plants.  So, please let them know you CARE by supporting those remaining wonderful people out there who have been providing us with our clematis over the years so that they do not suffer the same fate as Chalk Hill Clematis Nursery!!!

Clematis forever,

Edith

This is excerpted from the Fall 2008 The Clematis Chronicle.

 

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