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MAMARONECK, N.Y. Fresh produce, beautiful flowers and a seven-toed cat named Hobbs are only a few of the reasons why Mangones Garden Center in Mamaroneck is a stop worth making.
The garden center, on East Boston Post Road, is full of life this time of year. Blooming flowers cover the grounds from the front to back. The fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs leave a lasting aroma on the property.
Everything is hand-picked. We know the quality, said owner and lifelong Mamroneck resident Rick Mangone.
Each day, Mangones receives a delivery from local farms, but mostly from New Paltz, N.Y. The farmers, Mangone said, understand their expectations because they have been working together for so many years.
You are getting fruit and veggies from local farmers; you cant beat it. said customer Craig Sandhaus of Port Chester. The corn; its the best around.
Mangones Garden Center was opened in 1946 by Rick Mangones father. Rick took over the business in 1973 and has been in charge since. As the owner, he oversees the garden center, the landscaping business and lawn equipment sales, but this isn't originally what he wanted to do.
I went to college for marketing and accounting, he said. But, a few different twists of fate and here I am.
Family friend and customer since 1953, Vincent Polssidente, makes an effort to stop in from time to time to get fresh produce.
I love the stuff you eat from here. Its good, the corn and everything, he said.
Mangones Garden Center is open from the end of March until Christmas Eve every year. From June through October, it has fresh vegetables for sale. After Thanksgiving, the store goes into Christmas season with trees, wreaths and decorations.
We are still a mom-and-pop operation, Mangone said. We are still small enough that we can give personalized service.
Mangones son-in-law now works with him at the garden center, but that doesn't mean he is retiring any time soon.
But then again, one never knows, he said.
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