Best Nurseries in Denver: Top Plant Shops & Garden Centers
Denver's Mile High location creates unique gardening challenges and opportunities. The thin air, intense sunshine, and dry climate demand plants adapted to these conditions—and local nurseries have mastered the art of mountain and high-altitude gardening.
The Front Range nursery scene combines Colorado's outdoor culture with a growing urban plant community. From established garden centers specializing in xeriscape and native plants to trendy boutiques in RiNo and LoHi, Denver offers options for every plant lover.
What makes Denver special is the adaptation. Local nurseries stock varieties bred or selected for high-altitude success, and staff understand the specific challenges of gardening where the air is thin and the sun is strong.
Top Nurseries in Denver
We're still building our directory for Denver. Check back soon or browse all nurseries.
Growing in Semi-Arid Climate
Semi-arid climates offer moderate humidity and distinct seasons, making them versatile for plant growing. Summers are hot but not as extreme as true deserts, and winters are mild to moderate. A wide range of plants can succeed here with appropriate care adjustments for the dry air.
Best Plants for Denver
- Succulents and drought-tolerant plants
- Snake plants, ZZ plants, and pothos
- Rubber plants and fiddle leaf figs
- Dracaenas and palms
- Most common houseplants with regular watering
More Challenging Plants
- High-humidity tropicals without supplemental moisture
- Ferns in unaided conditions
- Maidenhair ferns and delicate species
Seasonal Tips for Denver
Spring and fall are ideal planting seasons with moderate temperatures. Summer heat requires careful sun placement and consistent watering. Winter is mild but humidity drops—consider grouping plants or using a humidifier.
Plant Shopping in Denver: Local Insights
- Denver's 5,280-foot altitude requires sun-tolerant plants adapted to high UV exposure
- The RiNo and LoHi neighborhoods have Denver's trendiest plant boutiques
- Tagawa Gardens in Centennial has been a Denver institution since 1979
- Denver Botanic Gardens holds plant sales featuring xeric and native varieties
- Denver's late frost date (May 15) and early fall frost create a short outdoor season
Tips for Buying Plants in Denver
Finding the right nursery can make all the difference in your plant journey. Here's what to look for when shopping in Denver.
Check Plant Health Before Buying
Inspect leaves for yellowing, spots, or pest damage. Healthy plants have firm stems and vibrant foliage. Don't be afraid to gently tip the pot and check root health—white roots are good, brown or mushy roots signal problems.
Ask About Local Growing Conditions
Local nurseries understand your area's unique climate challenges. They can recommend varieties that thrive here and help you avoid plants that struggle in local conditions. This expertise is worth more than any online guide.
Consider the Journey Home
Weather can stress plants during transport. In summer, never leave plants in a hot car. In winter, wrap them for the trip. Many nurseries offer protective wrapping or delivery for sensitive plants.
Look for Locally Grown Stock
Plants grown locally are already acclimated to your area's conditions. They'll transition to your home more easily than plants shipped from different climates.
Build a Relationship
The best nurseries become long-term resources. Staff can track what you've bought, remember your successes and challenges, and provide ongoing support as your collection grows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and shopping at nurseries in Denver.
Top Denver nurseries include Tagawa Gardens, Echter's Nursery in Arvada, and Paulino Gardens. For houseplants, visit Birdsall & Co. in LoHi or Plant Collective in RiNo.
Xeric plants like lavender, Russian sage, and penstemons thrive. Native grasses and wildflowers handle Denver conditions well. Most houseplants need humidity supplementation indoors.
Birdsall & Co., Plant Collective, and Little Shop of Soil have great houseplant selections. Tagawa Gardens and Echter's also maintain strong indoor plant departments.
Denver's low humidity is tough on tropical houseplants. Group plants together, use humidifiers, and choose drought-tolerant varieties. Local shops can recommend appropriate species.
Wait until after Mother's Day (mid-May) for tender plants. Fall planting (September) is excellent for trees and shrubs. Denver's season is roughly May 15 - October 1.
Many Denver nurseries specialize in water-wise plants. Resource Central, High Country Gardens, and Denver Botanic Gardens are excellent xeriscape resources.