IN BLOOM HORTICULTURE & THE GREEN SPACE
- Jul 17, 2025
- 4 min read
At k.financeco, we’re all about backing small businesses - and this beautiful gem has two fabulous offerings in one location.
If you’ve wandered down Balcombe Rd in Mentone, chances are you’ve walked past a leafy space called In Bloom Horticulture – or maybe you’ve even stepped inside and been swept away by the vibe.
It’s more than just a plant shop.
It’s a creative, welcoming space that’s become a hub for plant lovers, makers, and community connection in the City of Kingston.
Behind it all? Tamara – a local mum, business owner, passionate horticulturalist, and all-round community champion.
FROM MARKETS TO A MOVEMENT
Tamara officially opened the doors to In Bloom back in 2019 – just before COVID hit. But her journey started long before that.
She’d been running market stalls and pop-ups for years, slowly building a loyal following. The inspiration? Living overseas and seeing beautiful, immersive plant stores that didn’t exist here at the time. She knew she could bring something similar to life back home – something that felt thoughtful, calming, and full of life.
"I just love strip shopping," she says with a smile – and honestly, you can feel that love in every corner of the shop.
WHAT MAKES IN BLOOM HORTICULTURE DIFFERENT?
There’s no shortage of plant shops out there – but In Bloom is a little bit magic.
Tamara has carefully curated a space that brings together her passions: plants, sustainability, creativity, and community. You’ll find indoor plants, of course – but also handmade homewares, plant care essentials, female-founded brands, and items sourced from makers across Australia.
“I build relationships with the people behind the products,” she explains. “It’s small-batch, considered, and nothing is mass-produced.”
It’s also a place that supports creatives. Photographers and content creators can book the space for shoots, and artists are often invited to exhibit or sell their work.
ENTER: THE GREEN SPACE
In 2022, Tamara moved into her own premises and expanded her vision – creating The Green Space, a flexible, multi-use area that reflects the evolving needs of her community.
From Monday to Wednesday, it becomes a yoga studio, run by Christina Darras – who’s not only a yoga teacher, but also a multi-disciplinary artist. The space then transitions into a pre-loved designer fashion boutique from Thursday to Saturday, curated by Ellie, who sources incredible pieces from consigners around the country.
It’s not just a retail store – it’s a living, breathing space that changes throughout the week.
HER PROUDEST MOMENT?
“Opening my own space in 2022,” Tamara says.
After years of dreaming and growing, stepping into a shop that’s fully hers – designed with intention and heart – was a big milestone.
WHY SET UP IN THE CITY OF KINGSTON?
Tamara’s a proud Kingston local. She’s raised her kids here and she’s always felt deeply connected to the community.
She saw a gap – a need for something green, creative, and community-driven – and filled it with In Bloom.
IF SHE COULD SWAP ROLES FOR A DAY?
Tamara would love to switch places with Suz Chadwick, branding and business coach queen.
“She just has so much knowledge in her brain. I’d love to learn from her"
WHO ELSE SHOULD WE SHOUT OUT?
In classic Tamara fashion, she’s the first to pass the mic to others. Her top picks for Kingston businesses to watch?
@ellie.preloved.designer – who occupies The Green Space on Thursday - Saturday
@christinadarrascom – who not only runs the Yoga Studio in The Green Space on Monday - Wednesday, she is also a talented artist
@fox_box_art - art therapy providers for people of all ages
MORE THAN JUST PLANTS
In Bloom Horticulture isn’t just about selling you a fiddle leaf fig and sending you on your way. Tamara is big on education and connection – especially when it comes to plant care.
“There’s so much misinformation online. Sometimes you just need to talk to a real person and explain the problem,” she says. “That personal connection matters.”
People bring in photos of their plants (and occasionally the plants themselves – though Tamara gently prefers the photos, just in case of pests), and she helps them figure out what’s going wrong and how to fix it.
FINAL WORDS
In Bloom Horticulture and The Green Space are open Tuesday to Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday), and you’ll find it blooming with life, people, and purpose.
Whether you’re after a new plant baby, thoughtful gift, a pre-loved designer find, or just want to step into a beautiful space and breathe – this place is worth the visit.
📍 40 Balcombe Rd, Mentone
📲 Follow along on Instagram [@inbloomhorticulture] and [@thegreenspacementone]
Want your business featured on Kingston Uncovered?
We’re always on the lookout for passionate local legends.
Reach out to hello@kfinanceco.com.au and let’s make it happen.
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