Proven Quality
We mix our own potting medium using real soil that is heavier than the light, fluffy mediums used by many other nurseries. Our mix more closely resembles our native soil and includes mycorrhizal fungal spores that help pass nutrients, minerals, and water to the plants’ roots. The heavier soil also keeps plants in place during freeze and thaw cycles in their pots and in the ground. We use breathable Root Pouch pots, made from recycled plastic and natural fibers, that encourage a healthier root system and discourages root circling. Because of these quality growing practices, our plants’ roots push out readily after transplanting to establish themselves. By growing the plants in our soil and raising them outdoors, they are healthy and fully prepared to flourish in landscapes.
Our Roots
Scioto Gardens was founded in 1999 by Michael and Linda Johnson. During Michael’s work in the green industry, he noticed that nurseries had moved toward aggressive “factory style” processes that finished plants quickly, at the expense of long-term health. His observations and their combined academic training led them to develop more natural growing methods. In 2019, a new team of partners stepped forward to carry on their legacy. Following 5 years of constant growth, we moved to a much larger site to accommodate the increasing demand for native plants.
Come Grow with Us
The opening of Scioto Gardens’ new location marks our commitment to grow and educate about native plants, and to increase the supply of healthy native plants in our region. We never use neonicotinoids to protect our crops from insect damage because “neonics” make native plants unavailable as a food for insects such as the caterpillars of moths and butterflies. Seeing little holes in our native plants’ leaves means that the plant is doing its job as a host for wildlife. Native plants from Scioto Gardens help grow a wonderful world!
