Date: Fri 20-Aug-1999

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

Mannix-JMM-Garden-Center

Full Text:

A New Business Takes Root At Mannix Property

(with photo)

BY STEVE BIGHAM

Four years had gone by since Sarah Mannix's greenhouses had last been open for

business. The lack of activity was beginning to bother the longtime Newtown

resident who had run Mannix Greenhouse since the 1950s.

But then a couple of young men from JMM Landscaping in Danbury stopped by to

express interest in renting the property. They wanted to start their own

garden center as an offshoot to their landscaping business. It has turned out

to be a match made in heaven.

"I'm just delighted to have them here. They've cleaned up the place, and I

expect them to do very well," Mrs Mannix said.

JMM Garden Center first opened its doors back in April with the promise of

providing a wide variety of flowers, plants, shrubs and trees. Still in its

infant stage, JMM garden center offers prices competitive with those of the

big stores and offers unmatched quality and service.

Brothers Peter and John McGarry have been in the landscaping business for more

than 10 years. They specialize in the installation of not only plants and

shrubs, but also stone walls, waterfalls, stamp concrete, ponds, etc.

"We do all kinds of mason work," noted John. "It's called image design."

Those interested in having "image design" work done are asked to bring a photo

of their yard in to the shop to be scanned into the computer. Then, through

the magic of technology, JMM can create an image of what their property will

look like with landscaping.

"It gives them an idea of what they're going to get," Peter said.

You can also get an idea of JMM's work just by stopping by the garden center.

The young men have adorned the site with picturesque walkways, waterfalls and

other garden accessories.

JMM Garden Center is a four-acre facility featuring eight greenhouses. Like

Mannix Greenhouse before, JMM offers a unique hometown touch.

Mrs Mannix said she expects big things from her new friends. They've helped

bring the property back to life.

"I think the business has a chance to grow and grow. The thing I like best

about them is it's a family affair," said Mrs Mannix, an accomplished grower

herself.

The well-known Newtown resident said the key now is to inform residents that

her greenhouses are back in operation -- under the name JMM Garden Center.

"A lot of people know we're here, but they also think we closed," Mrs Mannix

said.

Well, let it be known, the greenhouses at 94 South Main Street are up and

running. And the men from JMM hope you'll stop on by. There will be pumpkins

in October and Christmas trees in December. All the while, the garden center

will be heating up those greenhouses in anticipation for a big spring in the

year 2000.

JMM Garden Center is open Monday through Saturday 8 am to 5 pm and Sunday 9 am

to 3 pm.