Redenta's Garden, Arlington

When she opened the first Redenta’s Garden location in 1992, Ruth Kinler made sure to hire only experienced gardeners. She believed then—and still does—that her employees should be as passionate about the ins and outs of gardening as they are about frolicking among the first buds of spring. Very little has changed in the ensuing two decades; the shop continues to specialize in 100% organic plants and delight area gardeners with its unique varietals. Among the fragrant aisles, one can expect to find rare annuals growing alongside native and water-wise plants, the latter celebrated for their disciplined sipping habits.

As organic gardeners themselves, the store’s staff educates customers on seasonal blooms and holds regular classes and events. Though class topics vary, they often include helpful instruction in areas such as organic vegetable gardening, cooking with herbs and vegetables, and safely removing one’s hand from a flytrap. Redenta’s Garden also assists homeowners with modern landscape design that aims for low-maintenance, eco-friendly solutions.: