About this time last year, I just so happened to write an email tip that profiled one of GardenLine’s favorite nurseries in the area – RCW Nurseries. You can read last year’s Garden Center Profile here.

Unfortunately, since that writing, one of the founders, Tom Williamson has passed away and didn’t get a chance to make it to what is the 30th Anniversary of RCW Nurseries. So, in a small way, to honor Mr. Williamson and the nursery that his family still owns and operates, I wanted to help promote their 30th Anniversary Party in this week’s email tip. The celebration begins this Saturday with a huge party and you are invited. There will be free barbecue, door prizes and a 30% off sale (get it?) on so many different items. To see the complete list of 30% off specials, just check out the website again.

The partnership of Bob Robison, H.B. Cox and Tom Williamson, RCW Nurseries began as a weekend neighborhood landscaping company run from Tom’s backyard. Today, RCW Nurseries occupies four acres at the corner of State Highway 249 and Beltway 8, a site one long-time customer called “an oasis in the middle of concrete.” There are 11 employees.

The company is a premier provider of roses, herbs, perennials, annuals, shrubs and native plants. Trees are grown at a nearby 50-acre farm started by Tom Williamson in 1982. The nursery also features gardening books and accessories, including a vast inventory of organic products.

RCW Nurseries often hosts garden club meetings and school field trips. Bud, the nine-year-old parrot who is the nursery’s mascot, is a favorite with children who visit; his animated alter ego helps cultivate an interest in gardening among the young through coloring contests, plant giveaways and other activities.