LINCOLN, Neb. – For four decades, the Canoyers have been transforming yards into beautiful spaces. Their journey began in 1986 with a greenhouse and shop in Griswold, Iowa, run by Craig and Kathy Canoyer. Over the years, their dedication to quality and customer service has helped them grow from a small local business into a well-known name in the gardening community.
The Canoyers’ story is one of perseverance and family involvement. Their son Brad and his family played a key role in expanding the business. In 2006, they opened a location in Papilion, and just three years ago, they took their vision even further by opening their largest garden center yet in Lincoln. This new location became a central point for celebrating their 40th anniversary, where both the family and customers gathered to reflect on their journey.
Kathy Canoyer shared a memorable anecdote from the early days of the business. “I didn’t even have a credit card machine,” she said. “But I’d have a lot of people who came out to my store from Council Bluffs and Omaha from word of mouth who would buy a whole car load of flowers and the only way they had to pay for it was a credit card. I’d send them home with a promise that they’d mail me a check. Every single one of them paid me.”
Craig and Kathy believe that personal attention has been the key to their long-term success. “You can buy plants pretty much anywhere,” Craig explained. “What people are purchasing is customer service, and that little bit of extra knowledge we can share with people.”
During the spring season, the Canoyers and their team work long hours, often up to 16 hours a day, covering many miles. Despite the demanding schedule, they say they wouldn’t do it if they didn’t love what they do. “People come in and say I love what you sold me last year and I want that again,” Kathy said. “It’s so heartwarming. It’s fun to see the new generation wanting to learn about gardening and flowers, so we’re here to help teach them.”
The Canoyers have built a loyal customer base over the years, thanks to their commitment to quality and personalized service. They understand that gardening is more than just buying plants; it’s about building relationships and sharing knowledge. Their approach has created a sense of trust and community that continues to grow with each passing year.
For those interested in learning more about the Canoyers or staying updated on their latest offerings, there are opportunities to connect through various channels. Whether it’s through in-person visits to their locations or online updates, the Canoyers remain dedicated to serving their customers and fostering a love for gardening.
