Thurston County gardening shops open for spring. Here are options for every gardener
With spring here, now is the perfect time to get started on a garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener, a plant enthusiast, or just getting started, the Olympia area is home to several locally owned and operated plant and gardening supply shops.
Jason’s Greenhouse in Olympia at 7032 Spurgeon Creek Road is just off of Yelm Highway. This locally owned operation, also has a store in Yelm, at 11337 Bald Hill Road SE, is known for its hanging baskets and a wide variety of potted plant options in herbs, flowers, vegetables, and more. Jason’s is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 360-458-2412.
The Plant Place Nursery at 3333 South Bay Road NE is known for its high-quality, healthy plants and offers a variety of options on their online list of what’s currently in stock. Check out their plant gallery to get some ideas before your visit. Open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 360-870-8999.
Bark & Garden Center Inc. at 4004 Harrison Ave. NW is a longtime family-owned and operated business on Olympia’s west side. They offer both indoor and outdoor plants and specialize in Northwest native species and exotic shrubs. The store also has a vast selection of gardening supplies and a large selection of pottery, birdbaths, and classic ceramic pots. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 360-352-2955.
Eastside Urban Farm & Garden Center at 2326 Fourth Ave E., located off of Chambers Street, is an organic bee-friendly nursery that uses organic methods and products. They offer a wide variety of items, including gardening tools, bee homes, chickens and a wide selection of books for both seasoned gardeners and beginners. They are open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, 360-972-2993.
The Barn Nursery, at 9510 Old Highway 99 SE, is a local one-stop garden center. Aside from plants, they have all kinds of related items including home decor, outside decor such as wind chimes, various gifts including some by local artists, and gardening tools, including some that are kid-friendly. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 360-933-2826.
Gordon’s Garden Center, 308 E. Yelm Ave. in Yelm, has been open for over 47 years. What started as a food market blossomed into a garden center. Pick up some Blooming Star Magnolias, or an octopus stuffed animal and book for the kids. Check out their Facebook page where they keep you up-to-date on sales, and what is in stock. They are open seven days a week, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 360-458-2481.
Gardening for the mind and body
Gardening is more than just a hobby, it has benefits for your health and well-being. According to the Royal College of Physicians, the benefits of gardening stretch beyond making your yard look nice. Gardening combines physical movement with exposure to sunlight, nature, and sometimes social interaction with others.
The benefits of gardening even include fighting illnesses, by raising your level of vitamin D. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, studies show vitamin D can decrease inflammation in the body, reduce cancer cell growth, and help to control infections.
Edible plant options
If you want to plant an edible garden, Love your landscape, which is run by the National Association of Landscape Professionals, suggests a variety of edible flowers, herbs, ornamental vegetables, and perennials.
Some edible plants from each of these lists include:
Bee balm flowers are described as having a minty taste and a citrusy aroma.
Garlic, an herb many know and love, can be grown in your garden.
Strawberries can be a sweet addition to your edible garden.
Nut trees can provide a snack for both you and wildlife. Plant a nut tree that grows well in Washington state, such as a hazelnut tree.
This story was originally published April 1, 2022 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Thurston County gardening shops open for spring. Here are options for every gardener."