(Chelsea Update would like to thank Alison Marable for the information in this story.)
HillTop Greenhouse and Farms has been in your backyard, quite literally, for 9 years.
Ken and Denise Prielipp opened the business in Lima Township in 2005 to provide people in the surrounding communities with on-site, locally grown bedding plants, vegetable starts, herbs, baskets and perennials.
The business has slowly grown to 52,000-square-feet — all under cover. So whether it’s sunny or rainy, customers can comfortably stroll through aisle after aisle of perennials and annuals and an extensive collection of vegetable plants.
‘In the spring, our collection of heirloom tomatoes, peppers and an array of all the other goodies we have to offer, make us a destination,” says Denis Prielipp, who added, “The outpouring of support from all around us has been overwhelming.”
She says, “Our family has grown over the years and customers have not only enjoyed their shopping experiences, but also being invested in our family’s life. Many times in the late afternoon you’ll see one, two, or maybe all three of our kids helping and being involved in our way of life.”
She says the business is a family affair. “There is an overwhelming sense of appreciation that we’re family owned, and from start to finish, that the plants are seeded, rooted, planted and grown right here, on-site and in the community.”
The owners are also actively involved in the community. HillTop is a regular supporter of Washtenaw County 4-H, Washtenaw County Farm Bureau, Chelsea Boy Scouts, Dexter Schools and numerous other non-profits.
“’We believe in our community, and are thankful for those who choose to shop with us,” Denise Prielipp says. “We’re able to give back because the community supports our business, and we’re grateful for that.”’
Stop by HillTop Greenhouse Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. -6 p.m. to shop for locally grown varieties to add to your vegetable or flower garden, or, perhaps, add a new hanging basket to welcome family and friends to your home.
