This weekend will really feel like spring in the Billings area, as sunshine and 70s is the theme for the next few days. Low 80s are possible next week and everybody is anxious to start planting flowers and getting their gardens rolling for the season. As I drove by one of my favorite locally-owned garden nurseries today, the parking lot was already filling up with shoppers who couldn't wait to get their fingers in the dirt this weekend.

Michael Foth, TSM
Michael Foth, TSM
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Shop local.

Look, I'm all for saving money. But when it comes to garden plants, the cheapest is rarely the best. Every long-time gardener will encourage you to get plants from local experts, instead of the big box stores. This can be especially true when selecting trees and shrubs for your landscaping needs. Trees that are grown locally are obviously acclimated to Montana conditions and I've found trees from local nurseries stand a much better chance of survival than a sapling grown from a nursery in Texas, shipped on a truck, and dropped off at your favorite lumber or grocery store.

Kris Edwards, TSM
Kris Edwards, TSM
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Worth the advice.

These local shops often know precisely what cultivars do best in our climate and various soil conditions in the Billings area. You'll talk to employees who are passionate about gardening and can offer invaluable advice (vs. a pimple-faced teenager who'd rather be on TikTok than at work).

Here are Eight of Billings' Top-Rated Nurseries.

Google Street View
Google Street View
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Roots Garden Center - 4.9 Stars, 55 Google Reviews.

This Mid-Town shop at 2147 Poly Drive is beloved by many and they also have a tasty coffee shop on-site.

Google Street View
Google Street View
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Sylvan Nursery and Landscaping - 4.6 stars, 11 Google Reviews.

At 7300 Danford Rd, fans love shopping at Sylvan, with many reviewers commenting on their knowledgeable staff.

Google Street View
Google Street View
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Nana's Bloomers - 4.7 stars, 53 Google Reviews.

The line between Laurel and Billings becomes more blurry each year, so I feel like I had to include Nana's Bloomers on this "Billings" list of nurseries. Nana's is famous for their glorious hanging pots and they do get pretty busy on the weekends this time of year. Nana's is one of my personal favorites. Trust me, it's worth the drive to Laurel to check them out.

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Google Street View
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Gainan's Heights Flowers and Garden Center - 4.6 stars, 187 Google Reviews.

The Heights Gainan's is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and the store is well-loved by many, for good reason. Expert staff, a huge selection, and lots of unique garden accessories and decor have made Gainan's a local favorite for four decades.

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Google Street View
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Billings Nursery and Landscaping - 4.0 stars, 25 Google Reviews.

From locally grown trees and shrubs to bulk landscaping rock, Billings Nursery is a great option for your springtime yard projects.

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Google Street View
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Good Earth Works Co & Nursery - 4.7 stars, 22 Google Reviews

Headed towards Shepherd on Highway 312, customers leave glowing reviews about the knowledgeable staff at Good Earth. I've visited this nursery a number of times and was very impressed with their selection as well.

Google Street View
Google Street View
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Canyon Creek Nursery - 4.6 stars, 52 Google Reviews

Another well-reviewed West End nursery is Canyon Creek. I always forget about this nursery and will definitely get them on my list to visit this spring. Reviewers commented on their huge selection and friendly, knowledgeable staff.

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Google Street View
Google Street View
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Garden Avenue Greenhouse and Garden Center - 4.7 stars, 192 Google Reviews

Don't overlook one of Billings' finest nurseries, located near the KOA Campground. Reviewers commented on the huge selection of plants, trees, and unique outdoor-living decor and accessories.

Got a favorite, locally-owned nursery that's not on the list? Shoot me an email! Michael@BillingsMix.com

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