A tree swing sways in the breeze beneath a willow near gardens of large perennials sprouting in rows and flourishing in greenhouses. When Laura Tattersall founded Made in the Shade Perennials in 2006, she wanted to build more than a simple nursery, she wanted to create a destination. She envisioned a lush environment where customers could stroll among large clusters of violet hydrangeas, duck under the bulky green leaves of wild ginger, and admire the yellow and white blossoms of star grass. Teaming up with her daughter, Lynn, they till the ground and plant shade-producing perennials and plants suited to the eastern Ontario climate, growing everything available in their catalogue onsite. Working with both landscapers and home gardeners, they invite all horticulturists to peruse their lush country landscape for water plants, vines, and a wide variety of hard-to-find hostas. When the team can fit it into their schedule, they also lead free workshops on topics such as garden design and why an actual green thumb is a serious medical condition that should be attended to immediately.