Best Nurseries in Memphis: Top Plant Shops & Garden Centers
Memphis's plant scene reflects the city's soul-deep connection to the land. The Bluff City sits at the crossroads of the Deep South and Mid-South, creating growing conditions that support both traditional Southern gardens and subtropical experiments. Local nurseries understand this unique positioning.
The Memphis area offers everything from established garden centers in the suburbs to increasingly popular plant boutiques in neighborhoods like Cooper-Young and Midtown. The city's long growing season and humid climate make it excellent for both outdoor gardens and houseplant enthusiasts.
What makes Memphis special is the gardening heritage. Generations of Memphis families have worked the rich Mississippi Delta soil, and that knowledge infuses local nurseries with practical wisdom.
Top Nurseries in Memphis
We're still building our directory for Memphis. Check back soon or browse all nurseries.
Growing in Humid Subtropical Climate
The humid subtropical climate creates excellent conditions for a wide variety of houseplants. High humidity levels mean tropical plants thrive without much extra care, and mild winters allow many plants to live outdoors year-round. However, the heat and humidity can also encourage pests and fungal issues, so good air circulation is essential.
Best Plants for Memphis
- Tropical foliage plants (Monstera, Philodendron, Pothos)
- Ferns and humidity-loving plants
- Orchids and bromeliads
- Peace lilies and Spathiphyllum varieties
- Calatheas and prayer plants
More Challenging Plants
- Succulents (except in very bright, well-drained spots)
- Cacti (require careful watering)
- Plants sensitive to high humidity
Seasonal Tips for Memphis
Spring and fall are ideal for purchasing new plants, as they'll acclimate easily. Summer heat can stress newly potted plants, so provide extra shade. Winter is mild but watch for occasional frost warnings—bring tender plants indoors during cold snaps.
Plant Shopping in Memphis: Local Insights
- Urban Earth Garden Center in Midtown is a Memphis favorite for both plants and gardening advice
- Cooper-Young and Midtown have Memphis's trendiest plant boutiques
- The Memphis Botanic Garden holds plant sales with unusual varieties
- Memphis's Mississippi River proximity creates rich, alluvial soil in parts of the region
- Many Memphis nurseries specialize in heat-tolerant Southern garden plants
Tips for Buying Plants in Memphis
Finding the right nursery can make all the difference in your plant journey. Here's what to look for when shopping in Memphis.
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 Memphis.
Top Memphis nurseries include Urban Earth Garden Center, Bob Orr Nursery in Germantown, and Meyer's Greenhouse. For houseplants, visit Stock & Belle or Midtown plant boutiques.
Southern favorites thrive: crape myrtles, hydrangeas, azaleas, and daylilies. Most houseplants love Memphis humidity. Native plants like purple coneflower and black-eyed Susan do excellently.
Stock & Belle, Urban Earth Garden Center, and various Midtown boutiques have excellent houseplant selections. Pike Nurseries also maintains indoor plant departments.
Fall (September-November) is Memphis's prime planting season. Spring (March-May) works well too. Avoid planting during July-August's most intense heat.
Tennessee Native Plant Society sales and Memphis Botanic Garden plant sales feature natives. Agricenter International and local extension offices also offer native resources.
Memphis has varied soil from river clay to sandy loam. Most areas benefit from organic amendments. Local nurseries can advise based on your specific neighborhood.