Gettysburg Ace Hardware is adding a new greenhouse to its Route 30 location, with construction well underway and a grand opening expected before the end of September. The steel trusses were put in place last week, marking a major step forward in the project.
Store manager Landon Rife said the timing is perfect to welcome fall planting. “The first products in will be mums, which are already on order,” he explained. “We’ll also have pumpkins, cornstalks, straw bales, and all the seasonal items leading into Halloween and Christmas. We’re really excited about setting up with Christmas trees too—it’s my favorite time of the year.”
The new 24-by-72-foot structure will be a full glass greenhouse, visible from Route 30. “It’s a legit greenhouse, not just plastic sheeting,” Rife said. “It’s going to be impressive and give customers a clear, inviting space to shop.” The greenhouse will also connect directly to the store’s unused courtyard, which Rife said will eventually host mulch, compost, bagged goods, and other outdoor products.
Leading the new garden center is greenhouse manager Kim Mayer, who brings a background in residential landscape design. She said the project represents a new chapter for her and a fresh opportunity for local gardeners.
“What excites me most is that the plants will constantly be changing with the seasons,” Mayer said. “We’ll start with fall items, then move into poinsettias, amaryllis, and Christmas cactus, and in the spring we’ll expand into annuals, trees, and shrubs.”
Mayer has already seen strong demand. What began as two small plant racks on the front porch has grown to weekly truckloads of flowers and greenery, often selling out quickly. She hopes to build strong relationships with local gardeners by offering unique selections and sourcing special orders when requested.
Looking ahead, both Rife and Mayer envision the greenhouse as more than a retail space. They plan to host community workshops and events, working with local Master Gardeners and other partners. “We want this to be a place where people can come not just to shop, but to learn, share, and enjoy the gardening community,” Mayer said.
Ace Hardware expects the greenhouse to be fully stocked by Halloween, with a full swing of seasonal offerings ready for the busy holiday season.
Charles (Chuck) Stangor is Gettysburg Connection's Owner, Publisher, and Editor in Chief. I would like to hear from you. Please contact me at cstangor@gettysburgconnection.org.