The Market Garden opens on Orcas

By Helen Huber

Special to the Sounder

The Market Garden opened on March 20 on the same half-acre that Driftwood Nursery had occupied for over 30 years.

When Driftwood closed in 2023, it left a major gap on Orcas Island. Lisa Mirkovich, a local with a strong background in plants and retail nurseries, stepped in to fill that void. The year before, Mirkovich had launched Spyhop Plant pop-up, sourcing plants from off-island and selling them locally — a scrappy, labor-intensive effort that proved her commitment.

Mirkovich’s journey began after graduating college as an English major. Realizing her dream of being a travel writer wasn’t sustainable, she worked at a retail nursery in Ohio, where she gained experience in inventory control, shipping and wholesale growing operations. She then spent over a decade in organic farming before relocating to Orcas Island for a state job. However, she missed working with plants and returned to farming, growing produce for Doe Bay’s restaurant.

When Driftwood closed, Mirkovich saw potential. Though her pop-up had gone well, it wasn’t sustainable long-term. She wrote a letter to Jacob Linnes, general manager of Island Market, proposing a collaboration. Coincidentally, Linnes had also been wondering how the former nursery site could be revived to serve the community. Recognizing a shared vision, the two partnered.

Their plan came together quickly. Mirkovich brought her expertise and passion; Linnes provided business experience and support. Mirkovich was hired as one of eight managers at Island Market, each responsible for sourcing and selling specific goods. She now had the infrastructure and team needed to grow something lasting.

Designing the new nursery involved collaboration between Mirkovich, Linnes and his brother Jason Linnes. They laid out the space thoughtfully, beginning with utility needs like water access. Though contractors estimated a May finish, the team pushed to open by March 20. Community members and contractors worked tirelessly, often on weekends, to meet the deadline — a testament to island spirit.

For Mirkovich, The Market Garden is a dream realized. “This place is my sanctuary as well as being my job,” she says. While still expanding its inventory, the nursery offers custom orders and discounts on bulk purchases, embodying a community-first philosophy.

The long-term vision is ambitious. Possibilities include a production greenhouse, a space for classes and events, and growing vegetable and herb starts for the market. The focus remains on supporting local needs while encouraging plant education and sustainability.

Mirkovich now leads a small but experienced team, including two master gardeners and others with specialized knowledge in design and wholesale. The team is customer-focused and committed to helping people find the right plants for their needs.

The Market Garden is more than a nursery — it’s a community hub rooted in local history and shared purpose. With plans to operate year-round, it stands as a vibrant, living tribute to the island’s love of plants and people.