Virus, mild winter and supply issues have gardeners shopping

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Gardening products are already hitting the store shelves in South Dakota. That’s the case at Lewis Drug in Sioux Falls, where Christmas trees and snow blowers are displayed next to the seed rack. There have been days when the store has sold snow blowers and mowers on the same day. Some of it is likely due to the mild winter but Lewis Drug spokesman Doug Schroeder said gardening really took root during the COVID-19 pandemic. People quarantining at home found for an outdoor activity they can take part in to pass the time. Schroeder recommends gardeners buy early to get a jump on rising prices created by high demand and nationwide supply chain problems.