Boise families have been enjoying the extended growing season at Jordan’s Garden Center and Seasonal Market in southwest Boise, where owner Jordan Risch says the unseasonably warm November weather has kept many plants actively photosynthesizing and even blooming.

Warm Temperatures Create Extra Work for Staff

With daily highs reaching the upper 60s Fahrenheit, the garden center has had to suspend its usual irrigation shutdown. “Irrigation is also off for us, as well as many homeowners, and so we are still having to worry about watering plants. They’re still actively photosynthesizing. You see a lot of things that are still in bloom,” Risch explained.

Because the regular seasonal irrigation system is offline, staff are now drawing city water and installing a temporary hose‑based system to keep the plants hydrated. “We have to run off of city water. So then we have to set up a whole different kind of irrigation system and run hoses from city water out to all our different plants,” he added.

Winter‑Ready Adjustments

To protect the plants as they transition into colder months, employees have begun moving many specimens closer together to reduce sun exposure and plan to add mulch for extra insulation. Risch noted that last winter’s mild conditions presented similar challenges, with landscaping work extending well into the season.

He cautioned homeowners that, even during a warm spell, winter watering remains essential to prevent stress on shrubs and trees that have not yet entered dormancy.

Holiday Season Preparations

Despite the weather anomaly, the garden center is pressing ahead with its holiday inventory. About 2,500 Christmas trees are slated to arrive soon, and staff are preparing displays and sales areas for the upcoming rush.

Risch hopes temperatures will drop before the trees are fully stocked, noting that prolonged warmth can shorten the lifespan of fresh firs and pines. “I do hope it cools down a bit for Christmas tree season because the warmer weather can affect how long those last,” he said.

Community Response

The extended growing period has drawn additional visitors, many of whom are taking advantage of the petting zoo, garden tours, and seasonal activities that the center traditionally offers in the fall. Families appreciate the chance to enjoy outdoor recreation while the weather remains mild.

Jordan’s Garden Center remains a staple for Boise residents seeking plants, gardening supplies, and holiday décor, adapting its operations to meet the unique demands of an unusually warm late‑fall climate.

Original reporting: KIVI Idaho News 6 Boise metro (local) — read the source article.