The Natural Gardener, located on Old Bee Caves Road, is a world-class nursery right here in the Lake Travis area. To say it’s a place to buy plants and fertilizer would, naturally, be accurate – but The Natural Gardener is so much more than just a garden store. It’s truly a destination full of educational and inspiring things.
It’s the kind of place you could easily spend hours wandering the 8-acre grounds and admiring natural beauty at every turn. There is something for everyone, and kids (and dogs!) are welcome. In fact, it’s a great place to bring children to help them gain an appreciation of nature and gardening from an early age. There are plenty of things to keep them entertained, including a butterfly garden, live animals including goats and chickens, a labyrinth made out of rocks, a teepee and several swings on the property.
The Natural Gardener opened at it’s current location in 1993 and was a pioneer in organic gardening and sustainable living. In 1999, owner John Dromgoole launched his own line of organic products, Lady Bug Natural Brand™. Lady Bug Natural Brand™ sells organic fertilizers, mulches, soils and compost. In 2011 Lady Bug moved to a larger location in Dripping Springs and can now be found at stores throughout Texas and the entire country, including Whole Foods.
Spend some time at The Natural Gardner and it’s easy to see that the employees have a passion for what they do. They’re knowledgeable and eager to assist, whether it’s helping pick out the best plants for your space and ability or proving information on products. They also offer free classes, such as Organic Veggie Gardening 101. You can check the schedule for classes and upcoming events. And with the exception of the spring – when they’re so busy they need all hands on deck – The Natural Gardner also offers group tours for children and adults.
So whether you’re a dedicated gardener or have a black thumb, The Natural Gardener has something for you. It’s a little slice of heaven for gardeners, but non-gardeners will appreciate its beauty, too. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the old farmhouse store. They have supplies and unique gifts for even those hard-to-please folks on your holiday list.
The Natural Gardener
8648 Old Bee Caves Road
Austin, Texas 78735
Phone: 512.288.6113
