much-loved plums are likely the next species that can’ t handle the changes. He continually adjusts which part of the orchard to use for new trees. For example, he no longer plants new peach trees in the microclimate of the lower fields, but uses newer varieties of apples that can handle the temperature fluctuations there.
The losses can be huge. Last year the orchard lost upwards of $ 300,000 in revenue from fruit spoiled by weather extremes, but the emotional toll can be even harder to take. Hours, days, and months of work, and the hope for a new and stronger crop, can all be dashed in one afternoon storm.“ The losses aren’ t just about the money, it’ s the sweat equity. It’ s the time and effort you put into planting them that is just wiped out.”
Even with the crushing losses at times, Gene says“… this is still the most enjoyable thing I’ ve ever done. The lows can be low, but the highs are so high.” And with all the factors to manage in bringing his fabulous array of fruits to market, Gene says, with a chuckle,“ Ah, the weather.” And he pauses.“ It’ s either your best friend or your worst enemy.”
Madgie and Mark McGaughan established M & M Plants in 2008 to provide cut flowers, bedding plants, starter plants for vegetables and herbs, shrubs, succulents, and other house plants. They sell at three farmers markets: Olney, Kentlands, and Rockville, and to florists and event designers. As their business has grown and expanded they have tried various strategies to ensure a steady stream of product to sell, even in months when the local weather isn’ t the greatest partner.
As soon as they settled in their eight-acre property in Dickerson they built a 30’ x 72’ propaneheated greenhouse, where they can start seeds in winter and grow flowering bulbs such as freesia, tulips, lilies, and calla to bloom in late winter. The greenhouse has proven to be a predictable way to lengthen their growing season, making it possible to start vegetables and herbs for spring planting, potted hydrangea for Easter, and a variety of flowering plants in time for Mother’ s Day. However, Madgie muses that“ part of the joy of farming is being in sync with the seasons, immersing yourself in the natural flow of things. But as a farmer you have to always plan a few seasons ahead, so sometimes it feels like you can’ t be present in the moment as much as you’ d like to be.”
Madgie and Mark maximize every inch of the greenhouse space, cramming in layers of“ hanging” tables, pots from every cross brace, and stacks of seedling trays under plant tables. Madgie jokes that it’ s a jungle in there, not to mention a warm and cozy place to work on a cold winter day. Tall eucalyptus trees fill one section, a plant that would not survive outdoors in our climate, but is a hardy perennial inside a heated greenhouse.
Weather Wins and Losses at M & M Plants
Madgie McGaughan of M & M Plants extends her growing season in her greenhouse. plenty I spring 2026 11