A New Season

Much like the evolution of a garden, the historic retail space known as In Season Market and Nursery on Alpine Avenue in Stockton continues to grow and change. New owners Caleb Mize and Tina Candelo-Mize are building on the solid foundation created by previous tenders of this space and bringing their own vision and energy. It’s definitely a special place to visit, whether you are a perennial customer or you are going to check it out for the first time.

Tina’s background is in horticulture, and she is currently teaching in the field at San Joaquin Delta College. Caleb had a bicycle repair business, and they shared a dream of opening a business together. Tina had a relationship with the previous owners, Julie Moorehouse and Eric Firpo, and the opportunity for her and her husband to purchase the business came at just the right time.
Their plan is to add to what Eric and Julie built and preserve the unique environment of the nursery and gift shop. They want to set the business apart from the big nurseries by offering unique plants that you can’t find elsewhere. They envision expanding the nursery space with an entire section dedicated to California native plants. In addition, their goal is to create an urban agricultural demonstration garden to show residents of our area how easy it is to produce your own food in a self-sustaining way. It will highlight ways to integrate natives, edibles and ornamentals in your average back yard. Education is paramount to Caleb and Tina. The free Saturday morning classes continue to be popular events with recent topics that include Dealing with Pests, Vine Pruning and Attracting Pollinators and Beneficials.
On a recent chilly morning, the front gift shop was flooded with warm sunlight falling on a little wooden table and chairs in the front window. It beckoned one to grab a cappuccino and sit for a while to soak in the peace and calm. Indeed, providing a community gathering spot is just what Caleb and Tina have in mind. They welcome groups to meet in the garden or front gift shop. This inviting space features products from a largely local group of artisans and they would love to add more local makers. Choose a unique gift from their selection of pottery, jewelry, locally roasted coffee, local honey, art and more. There is also a lovely selection of giftable houseplants.
The chicken coop at In Season is expanding so they can offer more fresh eggs along with the organic produce grown on the property. They hope to expand the offerings of locally grown produce in the market, so stop in and talk with them if you have an abundance of fruit or veggies you would like to sell. Whether you are looking for new plants for your garden, browsing for a fun gift for a friend, or just want to spend a delightful moment in a welcoming spot, a visit to In Season is sure to brighten your day.

Visit In Season Market and Nursery at 215 E. Alpine Ave., Stockton, and inseason.store.

Laurie Eager is the author and illustrator of In Papa’s Garden. A seeker of beauty every day, she loves adventure travel, all things French and dark chocolate. She lives in Stockton with her husband, Steve, and can be found most mornings enjoying a cup of coffee and the first rays of sunshine in their abundant vegetable garden.