DOTSON’S PRODUCE and Greenhouse has been a part of this community for a long time. So long, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly when it put down roots in Franklin County. “A few years ago, the paper did a story about us, and they were able to find permits from at least 65 years ago. Before then, you didn’t have to have a permit, so we aren’t sure about an exact date.” shared Vivian Dotson. Vivian is married to Jimmy Dotson, whose father and grandfather began the business. Vivian and Jimmy have been married for 50 years and have a daughter and son-in-law who work with them at the store. Their daughter, Danielle Mears, and son-in-law, Ed Mears, are managers of this family-owned and operated business.
“Jimmy’s dad used to set up markets all over Tennessee and Kentucky. He was renting the place we are in now until he eventually bought it.” Vivian explained. Dotson’s Produce and Greenhouse’s most popular seasons are the spring and the fall. The spring season brings colorful flowers, seasonal garden plants, and herbs. In the fall, Dotson’s is a destination for locals looking for pumpkins, gourds, mums, and corn stalks for autumnal decor.
“The support from Franklin County has been wonderful and amazing, but there are also people who drive from all over,” said Vivian. Dotson’s seasonal inventory comes from the growers that the family works with. “Some of our growers are second- and third-generation,” Vivian added. The family is involved in every step of the process, sometimes hauling produce from the growers themselves. One of the most colorful displays in the market is the hanging baskets of flowers. The Dotsons make all of the mixed baskets. This community has enjoyed the fruits (both literally and figuratively) of this family’s labor and passion for running this produce market for generations.
Dotson’s Produce and Greenhouse has been a community staple for a long time. Generations of Franklin County residents have paid a visit and bought flowers in the spring or pumpkins in the fall. This business has been brought to life and sustained by the Dotson family. Not only is Dotson’s a favorite of our community but also a favorite of people across Middle Tennessee. You can shop seasonal delights throughout the year at their market, with the busiest months beginning in March and going to mid-December. GN
