Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Garden Center in Lafayette Since 1946
Established in 1946, Orchard Nursery is a family-owned and operated garden center rooted in Lafayette, California. Our legacy began with founders Jack Schneider and Stewart Wade, who transformed a cattle ranch into a pioneering garden destination with the help of renowned landscape architect Ernest Wertheim. Over 75 years, we've expanded our offerings while maintaining a commitment to quality, community, and horticultural expertise. Our 5-acre property features a diverse selection of plants, including edibles, roses, and fruit trees, alongside unique amenities like the Lazy K gift shop and historic red barn.Third-generation owner Tom Courtright and his daughter Kathy continue this tradition, blending innovation with time-tested practices. We specialize in providing premium soil amendments, planting guidance, and seasonal displays while preserving our role as a neighborhood gathering place. Our team combines decades of collective experience with ongoing industry research to deliver exceptional gardening solutions tailored to local needs.
Services
Plant Sales
Gardening Supplies
Landscaping Advice
Gift Shop
Seasonal Displays
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1946 with three generations of horticultural expertise
- Offering 5+ acres of curated plant selections and gardening resources
- Specialized planting guidance for local soil conditions and climate
- Historic property combining tradition with modern gardening innovations
- Third-generation owner actively involved in daily operations and customer service
Services
Plant Sales
Offering extensive selections of edibles, roses, and ornamental plants. Our inventory includes specialty cultivars like Wild Boar tomatoes and Power Puff Pink roses. Plants are carefully curated to suit local growing conditions.
Gardening Supplies
Providing premium soil products including Organic Bumper Crop Soil Builder and Pro Potting Soil. We offer fertilizers like E.B. Stone Organics and specialized planting solutions for vegetables and fruit trees.
Seasonal Displays
Creating elaborate holiday displays since 1949. Our Christmas shop features fresh-cut trees, handmade decorations, and traditional holiday elements sourced from local gardens and historic collections.
Gift Shop
Retailing home and garden decor through the Lazy K gift shop. Products include unique planters, gardening tools, and specialty items that reflect our 75-year heritage.
Planting Guidance
Delivering expert planting instructions for local conditions. Services include soil preparation techniques, variety selection recommendations, and ongoing care guidance for vegetables, roses, and fruit trees.
People
Tom Courtright
Owner
Third-generation nursery owner with 49 years of experience. Born into a family of nursery pioneers, Tom has led Orchard Nursery since 1972 while maintaining active roles in industry associations and local community organizations.
Kathy Courtright
Co-Owner
Daughter of Tom Courtright, actively involved in nursery operations. Brings modern perspective to the family business while maintaining commitment to traditional values of quality and customer service.
Questions
What types of plants does Orchard Nursery specialize in?
We specialize in edibles (vegetables, fruit trees), roses, annuals, perennials, and seasonal plants. Our inventory includes over 150 African Violet varieties and unique cultivars like Wild Boar tomatoes.
Do you offer planting advice for local gardeners?
Yes, our staff provides expert guidance for local soil conditions, including soil amendment recommendations and planting techniques for vegetables, roses, and fruit trees.
Are gift cards available for purchase?
Gift cards are available through our Lazy K gift shop, offering flexible options for garden enthusiasts and holiday shoppers.
When do fruit trees arrive at the nursery?
Our fruit trees typically arrive in mid-January, with citrus and avocado varieties arriving spring through summer. We announce arrivals through our weekly newsletter.
What makes Orchard Nursery historically significant?
Established in 1946, we pioneered the modern garden center concept in California. Our property features historic structures like the original red barn and Rocking K brand heritage.
Do you have seasonal events or promotions?
We host annual events including our famous Christmas shop, seasonal sales, and educational workshops. The Garden Rewards program offers exclusive member benefits year-round.
