Emerson House Patio in Bloom Spring 2026
While documenting recent upgrades to the back patio at Emerson House Fairhope, we couldn’t help but feature our good friends and go-to garden supplier, The Plant Shoppe, and recognize the creative commitment Fairhope photographer Kyle Lowry brings to every photo shoot.
We Love The Plant Shoppe, Fairhope
The back patio received significant improvements to outdoor seating and additional container gardens — as usual, we sourced all of the plantings and the better half of the furniture from The Plant Shoppe. Located at 140 S. Section Street on the corner of Morphy in downtown Fairhope, the nursery is easy to shuttle materials back and forth by golf cart. But proximity is not the full story. This well-run locally owned small business only offers the highest quality of meticulously sourced plants and flowers along with only the best in accessories.
The knowledgeable and friendly staff have been an invaluable resource for maintaining the outdoor spaces at this high-demand Fairhope cottage rental. They collaborated with Jennifer Durant who made final decisions and built the arrangements.
The rocking chairs anchoring the seating area came from The Plant Shoppe as well — a last-minute find during a visit the day before the shoot that turned out to be one of the best additions to the space. They are high grade and comfortable, augmenting the space for those wanting to commune with friends and family.
Pollinators Love Duranta Tree
Among the new plantings is Duranta Sapphire Showers, a purple-flowering tree that has been implemented as a life-giving backdrop for the seating area. The Duranta produces clusters of violet blooms that attract pollinators throughout the day — we’ve already witnessed large bumblebees visiting throughout the day, feasting on the flowers as they support all life on earth as they do most important work that is impossible to duplicate.
Companion Planting in Containers
Container arrangements bring together plants who crave companionship. Charlie Boy Cordyline rises with burgundy blades giving the ensemble vertical structure and a tropical feel. Geraniums deliver red and pink while a Foxtail Fern softens with feathery texture. Creeping Jenny spills over the rim in bright chartreuse, protecting the soil from sun exposure as it cascades down the sides. Combining annuals, tropical foliage, and ground cover creates depth and color, calling your eye.
Extending the City’s “Fairhope Flowers” Tradition
The City of Fairhope installs fresh plantings around town year round that are grown in the municipal greenhouse for all to enjoy. The benefits of this quality of life enhancement cannot be understated. Bringing Fairhope flowers into our private space creates continuity that honors this tradition.
Links to our preferred vendors: The Plant Shoppe | Lowry Productions