Blumen Gardens INC

Wonderful garden center, great event rental space

Two reviews here, one on their garden center and another on their rental spaces.

First, for unique plants (perennials as well as annuals -- though if you're looking for flats of pink petunias, you'll likely find unique varieties and new favorites), Blumen Gardens is the place to go. A great selection for the collector as well as someone who just needs some showcase or focal point plants. Bushes, trees, vines, shade, sun and semi-sun, they have it all.

They also have a wonderful selection of garden art and other hardgoods that make wonderful gifts. Environment-friendly chemicals and fertilizers, homemade mulch (made to order!), fantastic bulbs and a staff that is knowledgeable and extremely helpful.

They classes and seminars, wine tastings, antique shows and a lot of other activities and events to keep you coming back.

The rental space -- a large, partitioned room, called the Tea Room (a decades old wire factory that is beyond charm) and an outdoor area that many have taken to having their wedding ceremonies in -- is economically-priced and well-known in the area. Their staff knows local caterers and florists, and my personal experience with renting their space was second to none.

A great place in Sycamore to wander an afternoon around, make a regular stop for your gardening needs or to have a reception, birthday or other event.

Highly recommended.