For many of us in the Thurston County area and beyond, Bark & Garden was a staple when it came to beautifying our gardens and yards. From the unique and fantastic décor – my garden may have a couple dragons and unicorns thanks to them! – to plants of all kinds, the family-owned nursery was a community favorite for over 40 years. Watson’s Greenhouse and Nursery, another family-owned Washington State icon, has taken over the location and promises to continue the legacy left by the lovely past owners.
“We are thrilled to be in Olympia and to grow our community in the South Sound,” shares Cheree Royster, director of marketing for Watson’s Greenhouse and Nursery. “We are passionate about what we do, and we love sharing our passion and creativity with the community. A lot of effort goes into the work that we do, and we are very proud to provide excellent service and quality products to our customers.”
History of Watson’s Greenhouse and Nursery
Like Bark & Garden, Watson’s began decades ago as a family endeavor. In 1974, Dan and Fran Watson began a u-pick vegetable farm, with their young daughters Maidee and Terri helping out. They eventually built a greenhouse, which allowed them to grow houseplants and supply bedding plants to a regional grocery store, shares Cheree.
In February 1984 they opened a full retail business in Puyallup. “It wasn’t until 1990 that Dan Watson, after a 30-year career in education, joined the family business full-time,” Cheree adds.
Fast-forward to 2025, and Watson’s Greenhouse has been supplying South Sound gardeners with all they need for over 50 years, now with three locations. The second location, Federal Way, opened in 2021.
Watson’s is still family-owned and operated. Maidee is CEO and her three sons work with her, says Cheree, each with a key role in the business.
Watson’s Greenhouse Buys Bark & Garden in Olympia
“We’re always looking for opportunities to grow and share our passion for plants with new communities,” says Cheree when asked why they wanted to expand into Thurston County. “After successfully expanding into Federal Way in 2021 – where we transformed a smaller garden center into a thriving Watson’s – the opportunity to purchase Bark & Garden was one we couldn’t pass it up.”
Watson’s Greenhouse & Nursery’s owners knew the 10-acre Bark & Garden on Harrison Avenue was a beautiful location with plenty of room and potential. “We reached out to the owners to see if they might be interested in selling,” says Cheree. “It turned out to be perfect timing, and we were thrilled to have the chance to become a part of the Olympia community and continue their legacy.”
Watson’s Greenhouse & Nursery purchased the Bark & Garden location in October 2024, re-opening late November after a lot of hard work, including refreshing the space, doing a full inventory and giving it the signature Watson’s feel, explains Cheree.
“This is more than just a new store for us,” shares Maidee Watson, CEO of Watsons Greenhouse & Nursery It’s about connecting with people, sharing what we love, and becoming a part of something special in Olympia. We are grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
Watson’s Greenhouse & Nursery in Olympia Provides Selection, Events and Friendly Atmosphere
If you haven’t been in since the purchase, you may be wondering what the spring planting season will feel like with the new owners. Rest assured, the family-owned company is working hard to give you that same local feel, with even more choices.
“We are also excited to have so much space,” shares Cheree. “This sprawling 10-acre facility is now our largest store and provides the opportunity for us to bring in so many amazing plants, gardening accessories and home products.”
Cheree says the sheer volume of new plants arriving each week will astound customers, especially for the upcoming spring season. “You’ll find something new every time you visit!” She adds. “We have also expanded the product selection with tons of new goodies, from gifts and home decor to patio furniture and gourmet food products.”
If you have ever traveled north to visit one of the other Watson’s locations, you know they are known for their hanging baskets. The Olympia greenhouse will have them too, just in time for spring and Mother’s Day.
“Get ready for spring at Watson’s Olympia,” Cheree says. “We’ll have a huge selection of vibrant annuals, hanging baskets, veggie starts, and a massive assortment of trees, shrubs, and perennials. And don’t forget about our year-round collection of houseplants and pottery!”
Watson’s Greenhouse in Olympia will also have gardening seminars and workshops like they do at its other locations. The classes cover everything from plant selections and planting techniques to caring for your plants. For example, on March 30 they are having a bonsai workshop for beginners. You can find classes on their social media or sign up for their email list.
“The response from the community has been so warm and welcoming,” says Cheree. They are planning a grand opening celebration in March just in time for spring. Watch the Watson’s Greenhouse & Nursery website and Facebook page for updates.
