Chelsea and Josh Ardonne just might be the coolest Zachary couple you’ve never met. During the week they lead unassuming lives. Josh works in bread distribution and Chelsea is a paralegal. But after hours, you’ll find them doing something like casually growing a Washingtonia Palm from seed, or renovating a 60s era camper into the absolute cutest plant shop on wheels that you’ve ever seen. 

“Plants are in my blood,” Chelsea explains. Her grandmother owned a florist shop in Opelousas called Jardiniere, and her parents ran Palm Paradise in Florida. Both Chelsea and Josh are Licensed Florists, which means that they have access to wholesale markets and can sell floral arrangements.

“My arrangements are big and creative. I had my wedding florals done by Mitch’s Flowers in New Orleans and took a lot of inspiration from those types of designs,” Chelsea says. She shows me some examples of her work and I’m instantly delighted. 

They’re big and vibrant and miles away from anything you’d find in a more traditional florist’s shop. Instead of the expected greenery, she might use a giant monstera leaf or palm fond. The effect is striking and organic. 

But their business, 225 Plants, isn’t just about flower arrangements. In fact, you’ll probably know them better from their Zachary Farmer and Artisan Market appearances where they sell popular tropical houseplants. There, you’ll find everything from Bunny Ear Cacti to Rubber Plants and Dieffenbachia. Many of their varieties were propagated from family heirloom plants or harvested from native growth. “We do buy 4 inch pots occasionally as growers, but we won’t sell anything until it’s at least 6-8 inches. We want to make sure something is sturdy and thriving before selling it.” 

Keeping a plant thriving once you get it home is another issue! Thankfully, Chelsea has some great advice there. “If it’s tropical, water, water, water. If it’s a cactus, neglect, neglect, neglect. Beginners should pick those for the best success.” 

If you’re interested in picking up some gorgeous plants of your own, there are a few ways to get in contact with 225 Plants. First, you can reach out to [email protected] with what you’re looking for and they’ll be happy to connect you with that succulent of your dreams. You can also find them at the upcoming Christmas in July Farmers Market event as well as the Really Hot Air Balloon Festival. 

They plan to be out there in their trailer, slinging plants and bringing a bit of color and joy to the Zachary community that they love.