From Humble Beginings

Our Story

Back in 1984, times were tough. Like many families in Ireland during the recession, Dermot and Mary were faced with challenges. But instead of letting hard times hold them back, they rolled up their sleeves and planted the very first seeds of what would grow into D&M Garden Centre – a name now cherished across Limerick and beyond.

It all began in the most humble of places: their children’s bedrooms, which were quickly taken over by boxes of fresh vegetables. Every morning, Mary and Dermot would load up their bright yellow Hiace van, and Dermot would set off across Limerick, delivering vegetables straight to doorsteps. Many customers still remember him knocking on their door with a smile and a bag of fresh produce in hand.

As the years went on, the little family venture blossomed. Dermot began to grow his now-famous bedding plants, while Mary, ever the people person, started selling directly to the public. From there, the Garden Centre took root – not just vegetables anymore, but shrubs, trees, and flowers, proudly Irish grown. With the incredible support of their loyal customers, what started in a few rooms at home grew into something much bigger.

By the 1990s, another seed of an idea had taken hold. Mary’s love of cooking and welcoming people inspired the addition of a restaurant to the Garden Centre. At first it was small and cosy, but word quickly spread about her homemade meals, hearty portions, and the unmistakable taste of fresh, locally produced food. Over the years, the restaurant has grown and changed in style, but Mary’s philosophy has always remained the same: good, honest food, cooked with love. And anyone who has tasted her cooking will agree – her passion shines through in every bite.

Today, D&M Garden Centre is more than a business – it’s a family tradition, a community hub, and a place where memories continue to grow alongside the plants.