Shopping at local independent nurseries has a range of benefits.
The next time you’re shopping for plants, garden tool or supplies, consider visiting your local independent nursery. Choosing a local nursery over a big-box store like Home Depot or Lowe’s has a range of benefits for your garden, the environment and the local economy.
Superior plant selection
Local nurseries often carry a broader and more distinctive selection of plants, including native species that support pollinators, birds and other wildlife. Many feature plants recognized by Great Plant Picks, a program that highlights outstanding plants suited to the maritime Pacific Northwest. Here is a list of local nurseries that carry a number of GPP selections.
Healthier, higher-quality plants
Plants at independent nurseries are typically grown on-site or sourced from nearby growers, making them better adapted to local soil, climate and pest conditions. They are likely to have stronger root systems which allow them to thrive. In contrast, plants at big-box stores are usually grown at large-scale wholesale nurseries using high levels of fertilizers and pesticides to make sure they look lush and ready to sell. These plants are designed for visual appeal and fast turnover rather than long-term health.
Better for the environment
Buying from local nurseries reduces transportation-related emissions. Because the plants are adapted to the local environment, they generally have fewer pest and disease problems, reducing pesticide use. And they likely grow well without chemical inputs like fertilizers. Thus they are a more sustainable choice.
Access to expert knowledge
Staff at independent nurseries are often passionate, knowledgeable horticulturists who can provide specific advice on plant selection, care, pest management and regional growing conditions. Many nurseries also host workshops and educational events relevant to local gardeners.
Supporting the local economy
Spending money at independent nurseries helps strengthen the local economy. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a local business, roughly $45 to $68 stays within the community, compared to just $13 to $14 when spent at a big-box store. This is because big-box retailers buy goods from corporate warehouses, use national advertising and send profits to out-of-town headquarters. Supporting local businesses helps build economic resilience and keeps resources circulating close to home.
Other local gardening resources
Gardeners in the Pacific Northwest also have access to a wealth of local expertise and education:
- The Garden Hotline offers free, personalized advice for Seattle and King County residents via phone or email. The hotline also offers classes, and its website lists other gardening classes offered by nurseries, nonprofit organizations and local governments.
- WSU Extension’s Master Gardener Program offers advice via email or at on-site clinics, scheduled in different locations during the growing season. They also have demonstration gardens, classes, speakers bureaus and more. Check out the King County Master Gardener Program and Snohomish County Master Gardener Program.
- The University of Washington Botanic Gardens offer virtual and on-site classes, tours of the Washington Park Arboretum and more.
- Bellevue Botanical Garden also offers classes, tours and events.
- Public gardens in the area offer inspiration, ideas for plant palettes, information about growing conditions and more. Find a directory at Puget Sound Public Gardens.
Local gardening books
Regional gardening books offer practical, climate-specific advice. Check out these titles:
- Gardening in the Pacific Northwest: The Complete Homeowner’s Guide by Paul Bonine and Amy Campion
- Month-by-Month Gardening: Pacific Northwest by Christina Pfeiffer
- Maritime Northwest Garden Guide by Tilth Alliance
- Growing Vegetables West of the Cascades by Steve Solomon and Marina McShane
- Gardening with Native Plants of the Pacific Northwest by Arthur R. Kruckeberg and Linda Chalker-Scott
- Real Gardens Grow Natives: Design, Plant and Enjoy a Healthy Northwest Garden by Eileen M. Stark
- Cass Turnbull’s Guide to Pruning by Cass Turnbull
- The Northwest Garden Manifesto by John J. Albers
