Editor’s note: This story originally appeared in the “Progress 2014” section of North Country This Week.

Willow Tree Florist & Landscaping was established in 1993 by Kevin and Jennifer Blanchard. Located at 7580 U.S. Highway 11 in Potsdam, it was evolved into a multi-faceted business.

Open year round, the building is home to a full service florist and gift shop. Flowers and plants are available for local delivery for all occasions.

The gift shop has over 50 local artists and crafters who have their wares for sale. Looking for a unique gift? Willow Tree Florist is the place to visit. Everything from jewelry, artwork, quilts, mittens, pottery, pillows, literature, woodcrafts and gourmet foods are available. We are hoping to expand on local antiques.

The Willow Tree garden center has undergone some major changes. Sidewalks and drainage were added to make a cleaner experience for shoppers. In the spring, the greenhouses and yard will be colorful with annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, and hanging baskets.

Along with our bulk materials, bagged mulch, soil, and stone are in stock plus landscaping services are available for that one tree to the total yard redesign.

The landscape aspect is growing by leaps and bounds. Cambridge and Unilock products have been well received.

Tech-Bloc will be new this year. All three carry a wide selection of pavers, retaining walls, outdoor living solutions and more. Outdoor living spaces are on the upswing and you can get everything you need to create that experience at Willow Tree.

We have the edging, glues, and sealers to complete a homeowner or contractor project. Our landscaping crews are ready to install!

Besides Kevin and Jennifer, you will find a skilled staff. Sharlene is in the flower shop with held from Joanne at holidays. Our landscaping crew consists of Andrew, Robert and Steve. We also have some great student helpers in Dana, Jake, Jared, Aimee and Robert. And on any given day, you can expect to see many of Kevin and Jennifer’s family helping out also.

Everyone is dedicated to making your shopping experience at Willow Tree thoroughly enjoyable. For information, call us at 265-2842 or find us on Facebook.