A Century of Gardening Together

It all started in 1924…

When the Swanson family first put down roots in this community. Since then, we’ve continued to grow, partnering with you to make Seattle more beautiful, one plant at a time.

A century later, we’re excited to continue our journey together. Join us this year as we honor our history and look eagerly toward the future.

We have some special surprises for you along the way. It’s our way of saying thank you to our customers and to our community.

The story of Swansons has always been about a love of plants and a deep sense of community.

August Swansons' journey from Sweden to America over a century ago marked the beginning of a remarkable tale. Funding his passage with earnings from a horticulture pamphlet, he met Selma, a fellow flower enthusiast, in Minnesota. Their union joined their lives and their shared passion for plants.

August, Selma, and their three children eventually settled in Seattle, finding the perfect spot - ten acres just north of the Scandinavian enclave of Ballard. They planted fields and built greenhouses alongside a new home. Swanson's Land of Flowers opened in 1924, a testament to their devotion to cultivating plants and community connections. Through the hardships of the 1930s Depression, they persevered by supplying sought-after cut flowers to Seattle florists.

In 1940, the reins passed to August's son, Ted, and his wife, Frances, who evolved the enterprise, selling potted and bedding plants, gradually building a reputation as a haven for botanical treasures.

A 1958 Seattle Times piece painted a vivid picture of daily life at the nursery, where customers were treated like cherished guests, often sharing cinnamon rolls and coffee as they perused the offerings.

Seattle has grown up around the nursery, but Swansons continues to be a special place where everyone is welcome; a place to enjoy the beauty of plants, deepen their gardening knowledge, and connect with others in an atmosphere of warmth and kindness.

Make Mother’s Day Colorful

Mom has been there every day, cultivating your relationship and helping you grow. Make her Mother’s Day special with a trip to Swansons.

Enjoy brunch at our cafe, surrounded by the soothing sights and sounds of our tropical koi ponds. Then take a stroll through the nursery and treat your mom to something beautiful. We guarantee that a visit to Swansons will put a smile on her face!

Want to stay in the know? Become a Swansons Plant Partner for insider tips, notice of promotions and events, and other members-only perks!

 Gardening Together, Guaranteed

At Swansons, we’re your partners in making your space beautiful. How can we help? Ask us your questions in person, by email, or by messaging us on social media. We’re here to provide advice, inspiration, and support in all of your gardening endeavors.

Remember, gardening is an adventure - we know that not every plant thrives in the conditions they are planted in, but part of being a gardener means trying new things and taking risks. That’s why we guarantee everything here. We will gladly replace any plant or item, or issue a credit or refund (with receipt).

Community Projects

We have strong roots in our community and we’re committed to sharing the joy of gardening with as many people as we can. For our 100th year, we have even more community projects in the works - with some pretty exciting partners, including the Seattle Seahawks! We can’t reveal all the details just yet, but if you want to stay in the know become a Swansons Plant Partner to get the inside scoop and members-only perks!