Best Nurseries in Nashville: Top Plant Shops & Garden Centers
Nashville's plant scene has grown as fast as Music City itself. The Tennessee capital combines Southern gardening traditions with a booming urban plant culture, driven by the city's influx of young creative professionals. From established garden centers serving Middle Tennessee for generations to hip boutiques in East Nashville and the Gulch, Nashville offers diverse options.
The city's humid subtropical climate creates excellent growing conditions for both traditional Southern garden plants and the tropical houseplants filling Nashville's trendy apartments. Local nurseries understand the region's clay soil, occasional winter ice storms, and hot, humid summers.
What makes Nashville special is the enthusiasm. The city's creative energy has infused the plant scene, making plant shopping a social activity with nurseries hosting events, workshops, and plant swaps.
Top Nurseries in Nashville
We're still building our directory for Nashville. 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 Nashville
- 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 Nashville
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 Nashville: Local Insights
- East Nashville has Music City's highest concentration of trendy plant boutiques
- Bates Nursery has served Nashville gardeners for over 75 years
- Nashville's Cheekwood Estate hosts plant sales with unusual varieties
- The city's rapid growth has brought diverse plant tastes and new shops
- Many Nashville nurseries host live music and plant-related events
Tips for Buying Plants in Nashville
Finding the right nursery can make all the difference in your plant journey. Here's what to look for when shopping in Nashville.
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 Nashville.
Top Nashville nurseries include Bates Nursery, Gardens of Babylon in East Nashville, and Hewitt Garden & Design Center. For houseplants, visit The Farmers Market greenhouse or Proper Plant.
Southern classics thrive: hydrangeas, azaleas, daylilies, and crepe myrtles. Native plants like Tennessee coneflower do excellently. Most houseplants love Nashville's humidity.
Gardens of Babylon, Proper Plant, and The Farmers Market have great houseplant selections. Bates Nursery and local pop-up markets also stock trendy indoor plants.
Fall (September-November) is Nashville's best planting season. Spring (March-May) works well too. Avoid planting during July-August's intense heat.
Native Gardens in Greenback, GroWild in Fairview, and Tennessee Native Plant Society sales specialize in natives. Cheekwood's plant sales often include Tennessee natives.
Middle Tennessee's clay soil needs amendment for most plants. Local nurseries recommend adding compost and organic matter. Raised beds are popular solutions.