Best Nurseries in Salt Lake City: Top Plant Shops & Utah Garden Centers
Salt Lake City's plant scene navigates Utah's unique high-desert conditions with creativity and expertise. The metro area sits in a mountain valley with low humidity, cold winters, and hot summers—challenging conditions that local nurseries understand and address with water-wise plants and proven varieties.
The Wasatch Front offers nurseries from Salt Lake proper through Utah County (Provo/Orem) and north to Ogden. Utah's outdoor culture extends to gardening, with a strong interest in sustainable landscaping and native plants suited to arid conditions.
What makes Salt Lake special is the community's commitment to water-wise gardening. With limited water resources, Utah gardeners and nurseries lead the way in beautiful, sustainable landscapes that work with the climate rather than against it.
Top Nurseries in Salt Lake City
We're still building our directory for Salt Lake City. 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 Salt Lake City
- 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 Salt Lake City
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 Salt Lake City: Local Insights
- Red Butte Garden at the University of Utah provides excellent local gardening resources
- The 9th & 9th and Sugar House neighborhoods have SLC's trendiest plant boutiques
- Utah's water conservation efforts have made xeriscaping popular and practical
- Elevation varies dramatically—Salt Lake City is 4,300 ft, affecting plant selection
- The Great Salt Lake creates unique microclimates along the valley floor
Tips for Buying Plants in Salt Lake City
Finding the right nursery can make all the difference in your plant journey. Here's what to look for when shopping in Salt Lake City.
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 Salt Lake City.
Top Utah nurseries include Glover Nursery, Millcreek Gardens, and Cactus and Tropicals. For houseplants, visit Sugar House boutiques or the downtown plant shops.
Water-wise and cold-hardy plants thrive: sagebrush, penstemon, ornamental grasses, and Utah natives. Many houseplants struggle with low humidity—humidity matters indoors.
Cactus and Tropicals, Sugar House boutiques, and 9th & 9th shops have houseplant selections. Humidity is your challenge—group plants and use humidifiers.
Spring (mid-May) after last frost and fall (September-October) are ideal. Salt Lake's frost dates are variable—watch the weather. Water newly planted items diligently.
Conservation Garden Park, Wildland Nursery, and Great Basin Natives specialize in water-wise and native plants. Most Utah nurseries now stock xeriscaping options.
Choose drought-tolerant plants, mulch heavily, and water deeply but infrequently. Utah-friendly landscaping resources help design beautiful, water-efficient gardens.