The city’s new hidden forest

DOVETON Street regulars have welcomed the newest addition with open arms.

The indoor plant retailer, When Polly Met Murphy, which opened weeks ago houses an array of greenery for anyone from a novice to a green thumb.

Store owner Cam Lynch said the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive so far.

“Since we opened it’s been crazy,” he said.

“Until those first few customers walk through the door you’re always that little bit worried.

“But being so busy has allowed us to turn stock over every few weeks to have everything lush and new.”

For many, opening a shop in the middle of a pandemic would be daunting but the team took it in their stride.

Mr Lynch said he doesn’t want his business to be defined by the challenges of COVID-19.

“It was a great thing to have at this time because gardening truly is good for the soul,” he said.

“Limiting the people in the store has been a blessing because I want people to be able to experience the shop so I would want to limit it to five all the time.

“I would’ve done it without COVID, it didn’t stop me from doing it at all.”

Aside from plants, the store also retails a selection of self-watering pots, plant food and handmade ceramics.

A range of When Polly Met Murphy branded skincare is also up for sale which Mr Lynch said was part of diversifying the brand.

“We came up with the recipe and designed the labels for the skincare line ourselves,” he said.

“While we were only online, I wanted something that would complement the plant range that tied in with our business because it’s difficult to ship plants.”

With an extensive background in landscape gardening, the store owner offers a unique free potting service and tailored advice.

Mr Lynch said it’s important that customers know how to properly look after their purchases.

“I don’t want people to just buy a plant,” he said.

“I want them to make the most of us and to walk out with care instructions and peace of mind that they have given themselves the best opportunity to look after their investment.”