Jamie Morgan has always enjoyed being outdoors.

“I studied horticulture at Central Piedmont Community College, and I’ve always been good at growing things,” she said.

Morgan is ready to share her love for the outdoors with others, having recently opened Cyclops Garden Shoppe and Statuary at 710 N. Central Ave. in Locust.

Besides plants, the Cyclops Garden Shoppe and Statuary has many lawn statues, birdbaths and fountains. (Photo by TOBY THORPE)

Visitors to the shoppe will find much more than plants, however, as a wide selection of lawn statues, birdbaths and fountains are on display. In addition, supplies such as stone for smaller landscaping projects are also available.

“People can come here, walk around and spend some time while browsing,” Morgan said.

Much of the merchandise available for purchase is displayed so customers can see the items in actual use.

“I like to display things so customers can see firsthand how they can landscape around their own homes,” she said.

“Good curb appeal not only makes a home attractive, but it adds value to the place as well,” said Morgan, who has lived on the site for four years, and completely renovated the house from which she operates the shoppe.

Among the statuary items available are concrete birdbaths, fountains, animal sculptures and benches. A number of older “vintage” items, such as an antique weather vane, are on display, as well.

Plant-wise, hosta and other perennials are grown in a small nursery near the back of the property. Pots for plants are available in various sizes as well as painted plaques that can serve as yard decorations, mounted on porches or trees.

Although having opened on Mother’s Day weekend, the shoppe is still a work in progress as Morgan considers future plans.

“I want to add some additional concrete pads” (for displays), she said. She plans to install a well and pump to ease the cost of watering. She also plans to add wind chimes to the merchandise she sells.

But for now, Morgan wants people to know about her business.

“There’s something here for everyone,” she said.

Contact Cyclops Garden Shoppe and Statuary, one mile north of the N.C. Highway 24-27/N.C. Highway 200 intersection, at 980-354-8487.