New England’s First Black-Owned Plant Shop – A Lesson in How to be an Alocasia

Quontay Turner’s favorite plant is the Alocasia. For her, it’s a metaphor for life: as one new leaf comes in, an old leaf dies. Alocasia’s have a set number of leaves, and they tell her a story of being mindful of how you spend your energy – and where you grow.

Quontay opened Emerald City Plant Shop in 2020 during the pandemic. For Quontay, a community organizer and creative, it represented the culmination of her work: a beautiful plant shop and a community space. It was the new leaf.

A New Leaf, Supported by Ascendus

“The winter of 2022 was hard. Sales were down, staffing was challenging, and the business was still new. We had one of the worst holiday seasons on record. I had to really sit with what was working, what I had control over, and what options I had to move forward with. Then I got connected with Ascendus.”

Through Ascendus, Quontay secured a business loan and a line of credit. This support was vital. “Without the support from Ascendus, I don’t know that I would still be standing here and have my shop. It’s been able to give life to me, to be able to give life to everyone that comes in the stores that are looking for help with their plants.”

Quontay used the loan to hire, restock inventory – and to fund a mobile plant trailer that’s driven sales. She named the trailer Diana, after her Nana. “Ascendus has really gotten me into a good habit of keeping up with my finances, making sure I’m noting what’s going out the door and what’s coming in,” she said. “It’s been a really great learning experience that’s given me confidence and consistency.”

Where You Grow

Today, Emerald City Plant Shop thrives as a beloved community space, where Quontay hosts local events and collaborates with other entrepreneurs. “My duty is to pour into others so that they create more beautiful spaces.”

Through her journey, she has empowered her family, friends, and community members to care for plants – and themselves. “In order to care for a plant, you have to learn how to care for yourself,” she explains. “Are you getting enough sunlight? Are you in an environment where you’re able to grow your best self?”

For Quontay, the new leaf continues to grow: rooted in creativity, resilience, and a mission to serve her community. She’s created more than just a place for plants; it’s a reflection of her journey and values – growth, self-care, and a spirit of unity.