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Standing at the entrance of root stock & quade, it’s easy to catch a whiff of what they’re up to: Bright, fragrant, buy-me flowers tempt passersby, although after a few steps inside, the shop seems more forest than florist. “I do flowers,” explains co-owner Kerry Quade. “John does plants.” That would be John Rattigan, who loads up the mid-section of the funky showplace with lush and exotic greenery. Beyond the cutting table and gardening tools is the patio, banked by larger shrubbery and, yes, trees. The shop specializes in on-a-whim floral arrangements and plants from farms in Long Island and New Jersey and international suppliers like Holland, as well as designs for special events and urban gardens. “Everything in here is hand-selected,” adds Quade, from the African violets to their collection of vibrant pots and vases. She takes individual orders for bouquets and table arrangements, from basics to more elaborate—and pricier—designs. For landscaping, Rattigan is the person to call for a consultation, which will get you a green-thumb blueprint for how to get the “lawn” that will be the envy of the block, maybe even the neighborhood. — K. Emily Bond

Seasonal specials are offered on big blossom holidays like Valentine’s and Mother’s Day.