Local greenhouse planting seeds of interest in next generation
Green Thumbs
* First in a 4-part series
Tallulah – Twenty years ago, Pat and Betty Satterfield started out with the frame of a greenhouse covered with a tarpaulin.
That year, they earned enough money to construct the greenhouse and add another for the next season.
Fast forward to 2023, and you will find Satterfield’s Briarpatch Nursery and Greenhouse “growing” each year, by adding more plants and more structures.
The Satterfield’s and their grandson Quincy are hard at week six days a week at the greenhouses located off Anthony Branch. They are open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., but that doesn’t mean they work 9-5. They work at least 10 hours a day during their busiest season, which happens to be between May and July.
The briarpatch offers a variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs. They are also very knowledgeable and are always glad to answer any questions customers may have.
When asked what their favorite part of the business was, Pat said, “I like rootings the cuttings and grafting,” Pat said, when asked what their favorite part of the business was.
“There is always something in bloom,” added Betty.
“I like catching frogs, picking flowers and growing sunflowers,” Quincy chimed in.
Their least favorite?
“Weeding. It is the hardest and most backbreaking part,” said Quincy.
Betty and Quincy split their answers between weeds and bugs.
It is satisfying to see the Satterfield’s hand down their knowledge to Quincy, who is also followed by his two dogs Rosie and Rattler. Passing on the business to the next generation is just another reason they love what they do.
Quincy is eager to help in all aspects of the business from planting and harvesting, asking customers if they need assistance and carrying plants to their vehicles.
In July, they begin to start rooting the cuttings for next season.
Long after planting season has ended for the weekend gardener, the Satterfield’s can be found hard at work always planning for the next crop.