OUR STORY
What began as a wholesale-only greenhouse expanded to two locations and ultimately blossomed into a garden center in 2020.
Westside Garden Center is owned by Tim and Kathy. Tim's love for greenhouse work started early-he began working in greenhouses at just 8 years old. In 1987, he opened his first wholesale location in Mattawan, later expanding with a second location in Paw Paw. Kathy built her career in business administration in Kalamazoo and Mattawan before taking over the bookkeeping for the greenhouses in 1995, allowing her to stay home with their growing family.
In 2019, Tim and Kathy had the opportunity to purchase a retail location, and in the spring of 2020, Westside Garden Center officially opened it's doors. They are blessed with four grown children, two son-in-laws, and eight grandchildren.
Our strong local roots keep us grounded and focused on community. We’re proud to offer quality plants and products at fair prices, along with the exceptional customer service you expect from a local business. So stop in to enjoy the beauty of creation-and leave inspired with unique additions for your own gardening spaces.
Bedding Plant Industry History
Did you know that Kalamazoo was once known as the Celery Capital of World? In the late 1800s, Dutch immigrants introduced their celery-growing expertise to the area, and the mucklands provided the ideal soil for cultivation. Commercial growers started their crops in small greenhouses and marketed their celery as "fresh as dew from Kalamazoo". California eventually took over the celery market, and by the late 1950s, the flower industry emerged growing pansies. Kalamazoo County at one time earned the title of 'The Bedding Plant Capital of the World'. Michigan is currently the third largest production state in the nation.
OUR STAFF
Meet Our Team
At Westside Garden Center, we’re more than just a garden center - we’re a family-owned business with a team that truly cares about our customers and their gardens.
We’re Here for Your Garden
At the heart of our business is a team that brings years of hands-on experience and education in the greens industry, along with a genuine passion for plants and gardening. We’re here to help you find the right plants for your space, answer your gardening questions, and make every visit enjoyable. Whether you’re searching for colorful annuals, reliable perennials, beautiful shrubs and trees, or simply need a little inspiration, our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always happy to help bring your garden to life.
Stop in, say hello, and let our team help you grow something beautiful!
