Dayton Nurseries to close Dec. 30

PHOTO PROVIDED
Dayton Nurseries is closing at the end of December. The land was purchased in 1986. The nursery and several buildings were constructed and the business opened a short time later.

By EMILY CANNING-DEAN
BGNN staff writer

NORTON  For nearly four decades, Dayton Nurseries has served the community with landscape design services and the sale of a wide variety of plants, trees, shrubs and other seasonal foliage, but they will close their doors at the end of December.

“It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of our garden center,” stated a release from the nursery. “We want to extend our deepest gratitude to all our loyal customers who have supported us through the years. Your love for plants and the memories we’ve shared will always be cherished. While this chapter is ending, we are forever grateful for the moments you’ve allowed us to be part of this community. Thank you for being part of our gardening family.”

Lisa Heaberlin, the niece of owner and founder Tom Dayton, explained that her uncle built the business from the ground up.
“The land where Dayton Nurseries resides was purchased in 1986 and the nursery, including several buildings were constructed,” Heaberlin said. “It officially opened for business a short time later.”

Heaberlin explained that Dayton Nurseries is located near Interstate 76 with an address of 3459 Cleveland Massillon Road and is not to be confused with Dayton’s Flower and Garden Center which is located farther south on Cleveland-Massillon Road.

“While both nurseries are owned by family members, these are two separate businesses with no business affiliation,” she said.

Heaberlin explained that while Tom Dayton loved owning and operating Dayton Nurseries, he has retired due  to health reasons.

“The retail operation of the business will officially close Dec. 30,” she said. “A few employees will be retained to manage the property during the transition, but the nursery will no longer officially operate after Dec. 30.”

Heaberlin said the Dayton family is currently looking for a buyer who would use the land and buildings for a nursery and potentially keep some employees.

“Naming options would be up to the buyer,” she said. “However, this is not a guarantee. The buyer will have several options and could use the property for something entirely new. Our greatest hope is that whatever happens with the property, it will be something positive for the community that creates jobs and is as beloved as Tom’s nursery was.”

From now through Dec. 30, all items in the Dayton retail store are 50 percent off including Christmas items. Gift cards and store vouchers need to be used before Dec. 31.

For more information visit www.daytonnursery.com or the Dayton Nursery Facebook page.