This is an update of the very first GardenLine Friday Profile, published back in 2018. And since I’ll be making an appearance at Maas, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, I thought it was worth another look. And I've added observations from some of Maas’ loyal customers.
You'll often hear me say, "It's worth the trip, no matter where you're coming from," when talking about several off-the-beaten-path nurseries or garden centers. I first used the line over 20 years ago, the very first time I got to do an ad for Maas Nursery in Seabrook.
I think the world of Jim and Carol Maas, and if you happen to drop by the nursery while they are there, I believe you will feel the same way. I have treasured Jim's advice and his expertise for 22 years, and can’t imagine GardenLine without Maas as a supporting sponsor. We have what I call an "avuncular" relationship ... he’s like an uncle full of great advice. You can take my word for all this, or read some of the comments on my recent Facebook post announcing this Saturday's visit.
- Alice: Love, love, love Maas Nursery!
- Jo Ann: Such a peaceful, beautiful and friendly nursery. You will want to spend the day. I love their Facebook pictures of customers wandering thru the grounds.
- Stacey: One of my favorite places to just escape and de-stress!
- Kristen: Seems like we’re there at least once a month.
- Debbie: Such a great nursery. Employees are so helpful.
- Andrea: I was admiring their home in the middle of these gorgeous plants. Must be so peaceful at night
- Marcie: Worth a trip, also brunch at Classic Cafe right by there ... perfect day trip
- Marsha: "Our" Maas is certainly a local favorite ... Wonderful variety of healthy plants and lots of friendly and knowledgeable people there to help!
Jim Maas (with me in the inset above) is a bit different than most nursery owners. So, as you might expect, his nursery is a bit different than most nurseries. Jim's interests are wide-ranging, from archeology and history, to math and science, to art and writing. His current projects include a series of children's books and lyrics for a country album.
Jim is, by joking self-admission, afflicted with a low boredom threshold and is always needing to learn something. Maas Nursery reflects that, looking more like an eight-acre park than just another concrete garden center. This 67-year-old nursery has all the things a nursery is expected to have, plus extras that Jim has had an interest in, now or in the past. Things like bonsai plants and Japanese maples, Asian and African artifacts, bronzes, fountains and pottery. A lot of pottery!
On any given weekend, you might find local artists painting, Jim walking around giving away his extra Astros tickets (section 116, if you were wondering), stone carvers sculpting, gardening classes, musicians playing, individuals or groups praying, or once-a-month Prayer in the Garden church services led by Jim. And it all takes place in Jim's backyard … he lives on the property in his remodeled childhood home.
Maybe you've also heard me say, "If you can't find it at Maas, it probably doesn't exist." And maybe now you know why I've said such things about this awesome nursery and garden center.
Take it from me, and anyone else who makes it out to 5511 Todville Road in Seabrook. It's worth the trip, no matter where you're coming from!