For over 25 years, the 14th Street Garden Center has been a verdant landmark, nurturing the gardening dreams of Jersey City residents and those in neighboring Hoboken. Nestled near the border of these bustling cities at 793 Jersey Avenue, this family-owned business has blossomed into a beloved local institution. More than just a plant provider, the 14th Street Garden Center offers a touch of nature, expert advice, and a community spirit that keeps customers returning season after season.
Exterior view of 14th Street Garden Center in Jersey City, NJ, showcasing Christmas trees for sale.
What truly sets the 14th Street Garden Center apart is its unwavering commitment to customer happiness, especially when it comes to their cherished Christmas tree tradition. As owner Mike Giordano explains, choosing a Christmas tree is a joyful experience. “Everyone’s happy,” he shares, emphasizing the emotional connection people have with selecting the perfect tree. “It’s not something you need. It’s something you want.” This understanding of customer desires has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing them to thrive even during economic downturns and challenging times.
The roots of the 14th Street Garden Center run deep within Jersey City’s history. Mike Giordano’s father, Michael Giordano Senior, began his entrepreneurial journey in the 1940s, selling produce throughout the city. A pivotal moment in young Michael Senior’s life involved a lost quarter and a wagon, a gift from his father that launched him into his own produce business. This very wagon, a symbol of the family’s humble beginnings and entrepreneurial spirit, remains a cherished piece within the garden center today, now brimming with vibrant plants.
Giordano's Produce stand in Jersey City in the 1970s.
Vintage wagon filled with plants inside 14th Street Garden Center, Jersey City.
Giordano’s Produce flourished, eventually establishing a market on Henderson Street. However, urban development led to a relocation when the Newport Mall was built. Undeterred, the family pivoted, and on December 23, 1993, the 14th Street Garden Center opened its doors. Tragically, just months later in August 1994, Michael Senior passed away. Despite this loss, Michael Junior and his brother Vince stepped up, foregoing other paths to continue their father’s legacy, dedicating themselves to the garden center alongside their mother.
The former Giordano's Produce store on Henderson Street, Jersey City.
Around the year 2000, the 14th Street Garden Center expanded its offerings to include Christmas trees, a decision that has become a holiday staple for the community. Understanding the local housing landscape, Mike Giordano Jr. notes that smaller Christmas trees are particularly popular in Jersey City and Hoboken due to apartment living. However, they also cater to businesses, providing larger trees for restaurants and building lobbies.
Quality is paramount at 14th Street Garden Center. They specialize in Premium Fraser Fir Christmas trees, prized for their elegant narrow shape and full, lush appearance with minimal gaps. These Number 1 grade trees range in size from tabletop decorations to impressive 12-foot centerpieces, with prices varying accordingly. Most customers find their perfect tree in the five- to seven-foot range, investing in holiday cheer for a reasonable price.
Close-up of Premium Fraser Fir Christmas trees at 14th Street Garden Center NJ.
While the majority of their trees are sourced from North Carolina, the garden center is transparent about industry-wide Christmas tree shortages, a ripple effect from the 2007-2008 recession. Growing high-quality trees takes time – up to ten years for a seven- to eight-foot Fraser fir – making supply chain adjustments a long-term process.
Beyond Christmas trees, 14th Street Garden Center is a year-round destination for all things green. They offer a wide array of plants, flowers, pots, wreaths, and garden accessories. To further enhance customer convenience, they provide delivery and tree setup services, jokingly referred to as a “marriage-saver” for busy couples. Tree removal services are also available, and in the past, they’ve even donated used Christmas trees for shoreline protection, showcasing their community-minded approach.
The 14th Street Garden Center is more than just a business; it’s a family-friendly space. Santa Claus himself makes an annual visit, creating a magical experience for children and families, many of whom return each year to capture the tradition.
Mike Giordano with Santa Claus at 14th Street Garden Center in Jersey City.
Located conveniently near the Holland Tunnel and major highways, 14th Street Garden Center is easily accessible, though sometimes overlooked by passersby. Mike Giordano often hears from first-time visitors about how many times they’ve driven past without stopping, a testament to its slightly hidden gem status.
For those new to Christmas tree ownership, Mike Giordano offers simple yet crucial advice: keep your tree stand consistently watered, especially in the first few days. Proper hydration can significantly extend the life of your tree, with one customer even managing to keep their tree green until April!
Entrance to 14th Street Garden Center in Jersey City, inviting customers in.
While 14th Street Garden Center has been a Jersey City fixture for decades, they are not alone in providing holiday cheer. Other local options include the Hoboken Tree Barn and Cal’s Christmas Trees in Hoboken, contributing to a vibrant community of Christmas tree vendors in the area.
Mike Giordano Jr. inspecting Christmas trees at 14th Street Garden Center NJ.
In conclusion, 14th Street Garden Center stands as a testament to family values, community commitment, and a passion for bringing nature closer to home. Whether you’re searching for the perfect Christmas tree, vibrant plants, or expert gardening advice, this Jersey City gem welcomes you to discover your own green oasis.
