Detroiters looking to grow tomatoes, herbs, or, er, herb in their homes now have a resource:
The Urban Gardening Center has opened on 22nd St. just south of Michigan Ave. The shop is run by Isaac Warunek and Brian Johnson -- the building's owner -- and carries organic, indoor and hydroponic gardening supplies. Any necessary equipment -- from lighting to air circulators -- is in stock. "We're a one-stop grow shop," says Warunek.
The Urban Gardening Center is clearly poised to work with an expanding legal medical marijuana community in the state of Michigan, with licensed caregivers and patients receiving a 15% discount. A connection to this community is what inspired the duo to open the shop. "We grow legal medical cannabis, and so do a lot of our friends," says Warunek. "It's something we are passionate about."
Johnson has plenty of experience with running a business in Detroit: Burst, LLC, his sound company, has a long history in the city. Although he is blunt about issues, including crime and bureaucracy, he is committed to his location. "I'm here because I'm here. This is where I grew up," he says. "I still have love for it."
Classes and seminars are on the horizon for The Urban Gardening Center. Hours are 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Sundays. Call 313-898-0200.
Sources: Issac Warunek and Brian Johnson, The Urban Gardening Center
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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