ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Dan Schantz Greenhouse will not be wilting on the vine.
Lancaster-based Herr’s Fruit Farm has been operating the greenhouse and farm market since the spring, after the Schantz family closed up shop in December.
On Friday, Robert and Melanie Herr announced they completed acquisition of the Dan Schantz name and property at 2031 29th St.
They said they plan to keep it open and celebrate with a grand opening Saturday, Oct. 5.
The two-acre property sold for $1.65 million in June to Herr's at Dan Schantz LLC, according to Lehigh County property assessment records.
“Our initial intention was to lease the property for the spring flower season,” the Herrs said in a statement. “However, when we opened our doors, the customer response was so overwhelmingly positive, that we knew we had to stay!
“With Dan’s blessing we will keep the Schantz name and continue to offer the area’s best selection of top-quality annuals, perennials, tropical plants, cacti and houseplants.
"We will of course continue to offer other seasonal delights, including pumpkins and mums in the fall, Christmas trees, wreaths and poinsettias in December, and roses for Valentine’s Day.”
"Our hearts are filled with gratitude for our loyal customers, awesome employees, and the city of Allentown for embracing this endeavor."Melanie Herr, co-owner of Herr's Fruit Farm/Dan Schantz Greenhouse & Farm Market
The Herrs — theirs is a sixth-generation family business that was founded more than 110 years ago — said they have added Lancaster County farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, along with homemade pickles, jams and pure honey to Dan Schantz.
Many of the staff are former Schantz employees who have returned, according to the Herrs.
“This has been a labor of love,” Melanie Herr said. “We have spent many all-nighters cleaning, painting and upgrading the facilities.
"Our hearts are filled with gratitude for our loyal customers, awesome employees, and the city of Allentown for embracing this endeavor."
The Herrs said the grand opening celebration will include free food, door prizes and sale specials.
