Our Go-To Recommendations
These are the nurseries, products and people we recommend in our write-ups. Everything here is something we use or trust for Phoenix-area yards (Zone 9B).
Nurseries
Where to buy plants.
Our go-to for most plants and trees. Always has a great selection of seasonal flowers if you want annuals, plus wildflower seed. Also carries Tony's Magic Mix.
Another great option for trees and general plants, with several Valley locations.
Best spot for tropicals like mango, guava and banana. Also where we get Oldhamii bamboo (a clumping, non-running bamboo). Located right next door to Arizona Worm Farm.
Where we send everyone for citrus trees. Great selection and trees grown for our climate.
Another place to pick up Tony's Magic Mix, with several Valley locations.
Compost & Feeding
Healthy plants start with healthy soil biology. These are the products we use and recommend.
Our first stop for compost, worm castings, mulch, worms and raised bed mix. Also carries Nutrient+. A fun place to visit with kids.
The organic fertilizers we recommend: Jenner 8, Organic Nitro Jen and Kelp Fertilizer. High in fulvic acid and great for feeding soil life. Works great on grass too and really greens it up.
On the site, click Products, then Home and Garden.
Part of our monthly feeding blend. Available at A&P Nursery and SummerWinds Nursery.
Lawn
St. Augustine sod.
St. Augustine sod.
St. Augustine sod.
Lay a few rolls of St. Augustine in the corners of the yard and let it slowly take over the Bermuda. No winter rye overseeding.
Raised Beds
The raised garden beds we recommend. Fill them with raised bed mix from Arizona Worm Farm.
Pros We Trust
The Garden Nerd focuses on planting and soil health. For irrigation and tree work, these are the people we send you to.
Irrigation inspections, repairs and adjustments, running new lines to planting areas, and turf removal. We bring Garrett in to check irrigation before we plant.
For trees that need arborist-level care, like structural pruning or canopy risk on large trees.
Garden Nerd Resources
What to plant and when in Phoenix, month by month.
Why an exposed root flare matters for tree health, with real examples.
Our community where members get direct access to me for questions about their yard. Every consult client is already a member.
Questions, planting, or monthly fertilizing.