Nestled on the Old Bend Redmond highway is a 15 acre botanical garden, called Schillings Garden Market. The carefully landscaped property offers a clear view of the Cascade mountains, as customers browse for a new plant friend. Schilling’s offers Japanese maples, shrubs, small ornamental trees and perennial plants. While the market offers a variety of plants customers can choose from, it also provides an experience.

“You can drive by and miss us on the highway. It’s a little hidden secret,” said Diana Brown, a first season worker. “In the early 1970’s, the Schillings family owned the property. The owner, Joyce Schillings, then opened the market as a plant nursery in the mid 90’s. Back then, the market was called ‘Schillings Solar City.” 

Five years ago, it was then bought by Joe and Melinda Nichols. “I have been with the company for four seasons now,” Jake Mehrens said. “I enjoy the customer interaction. I like to help paint the picture for the customers on what plants will go well with their landscapes.”

Schilling’s also has a farm stand inside the grounds. The farm stand specializes in local produce, meats, dry goods and other agricultural bio products. The farm stand  tries to source their products from Central Oregon farms, and other farms throughout Oregon. Customers can order local wine or cider while sitting underneath the pavilion located near the farm stand. 

During the month of October, Schillings has a pumpkin patch open seven days a week. They have a selection of specialty pumpkins, ornamental cabbage and kale, corn stocks and assorted mums. Their farm stand also has Oregon squash, popping corn, pumpkin butter, sausages and cider. 

“The main appeal is that Schilling’s garden market is more of an experience than a nursery where you just buy plants,” Jake told The Broadside. “We have created a relaxing environment for customers to enjoy, with a knowledgeable staff to help you.”