Thursday, October 1, 2026
On Long Island, where a home's impression can make or break a sale, real estate professional Christine Ferramosca knows gardening shapes how homes are experienced and remembered.
“I simply love gardening,” she said. Her enthusiasm is rooted in family tradition and a practical appreciation for how greenery transforms a space.
“Flowers and plants are an easy way to freshen up a room and bring life to a space,” Ferramosca explained, noting she often stages listings with flower bouquets and potted plants.
Her connection to gardening traces back to her grandmother, Adelina, who emigrated from Italy in the 1950s carrying a handful of tomato seeds.
“They didn’t have much when they came over from Italy, but tomato seeds were among the things they brought with them,” she said. “The fact that they’ve been propagated and saved year after year for more than three generations makes them pretty special.” Each year, her family carefully saves and prepares them for the next growing season.
“Each year, we reserve the seeds so we can grow them again the following year,” she said.
The variety falls into the heirloom category — irregularly shaped but rich in flavor. “Some people call them ‘ugly tomatoes,’ but to me they’re so beautiful,” she said.
The tradition shaped how her grandmother cooked. “She would can tomatoes and other food from her garden, so she could grab a jar from her basement pantry year-round,” Ferramosca said. “When in season, she would use them fresh in sauces or sliced with basil, garlic, and mozzarella — simple and delicious.”
Today, Ferramosca blends that heritage with modern resources, frequently visiting trusted local garden centers like Hicks Nurseries, Heritage Farm & Garden, and Dee's Nursery & Florist.
“I love going to the local nurseries,” she said. “I could spend all day walking through and admiring the plants.”
She emphasized the value of shopping local. “When you go to a reputable garden center, you’re not just buying plants — you’re getting advice, guidance, and quality that make a difference,” Ferramosca said.
For beginners, she recommends starting small. “If you feel overwhelmed, start with a pot of your favorite herbs by your kitchen windowsill,” she said. “They look and smell great, and you can pick what you need when you’re cooking.”
In real estate and in life, Ferramosca believes thoughtful touches leave a lasting impression rooted in care and continuity.
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