Submitted by Haddam Economic Development Commission
(May 28, 2026) — Along the scenic stretch of Saybrook Road, a route officially designated for its historical significance, sits a three-acre oasis that has served as the heartbeat of the local landscape for more than seven decades. Town & Country Nursery and Florist, located at 1036 Saybrook Road, has been selected as the town’s latest Business Spotlight, honoring a family legacy that began in 1952 and continues to flourish through three generations.
Founded by Frank Mekrut, the business originally began as a tree company with a modest office tucked away in the back. However, the business truly began to bloom into the full-service center it is today when Bob Glazier, husband to Callie, left the Air Force and came back to Connecticut. Bob, who, sadly, passed away four years ago, is remembered as a man who lived for gardening. During his military leave, he would return home to help the family tree business, eventually spearheading the move into annuals and perennials. His legacy is felt in every corner of the grounds; from the towering trees he planted across town to the thriving floral business we see today.
The nursery has recently evolved into a comprehensive retreat, thanks in large part to Ken Perotti, a recent addition to the team who brings years of horticultural experience and has become the resident expert behind the nursery’s signature hanging baskets and ornate planters. His eye for design and color has helped transform the grounds into a visual masterpiece. Running the Landscape Division is David Bowie who first walked onto the property as Bob’s apprentice while still in high school and never left. This past winter, David’s craftsmanship took center stage as he designed and built the newly expanded farm stand. The new structure has transformed the look of the facility, allowing the family to highlight an even wider array of local products, including fresh produce, breads, pies, honey, and maple syrup.
As NOFA-trained organic retailers, the family prides itself on being a resource for the community rather than just retail outlet. They are known as much for their advice as their inventory, often guiding neighbors on the best watering practices or suggesting the perfect ornamental shrub for a tricky corner. Lauren, representing the third generation, has become the resident florist, designing for events that range from joyful wedding showers to somber memorials, serving Haddam, Moodus, and East Haddam with next-day delivery.
Beyond the rows of greenhouses and the tropical garden (a popular winter hideaway for residents looking to escape the New England cold) the family’s impact is visible in the very fabric of Haddam. They have designed and maintained gardens at the Town Annex, Town Hall, and Field Park, and they continue to care for the pollinator garden Bob designed at Haddam Meadows State Park. From donating dirt for community projects to providing flowers for Memorial Day events and supporting the local food bank, the owners rarely say no when the community calls.
While the family acknowledges the modern challenges of rising costs, they remain anchored by their relationship with their customers, many of whom have become lifelong friends. Whether they are hosting a bluegrass band and a pizza truck for an open house, or teaching mothers and daughters how to plant together for Mother’s Day, Town & Country remains a place where growth is measured in more than just inches. As they look toward the Spring and Summer, they continue to take each day as it comes, fueled by the excitement of new growth and the knowledge that Frank and Bob’s legacy continues to shade the town they loved.
Follow Town & Country Nursery on Facebook and visit their website townandcountryhaddam.org or call 860-345-8581 for hours and information. Support Local, Shop Local, Eat Local, Play Local.
Top photo from 1957, provided by the Glazier Family. Route 154 was formerly Route 9 and the “road to the beach.” Town and Country stocked beach chairs, umbrellas, etc. Shown in the picture are, left to right Bill Mekrut, Phil Mekrut,(in the stroller) Frank Mekrut, Sr., Callie (Mekrut) Glazier, and Frank Mekrut, Jr.
Photo above provided by Haddam Economic Development Commission. Left to Right, Lauren Livingston, Callie Glazier and Andrea Mekrut.
