Gardening in Kamloops comes with both challenges and opportunities. The region’s dry climate and unique soil conditions require thoughtful plant selection and proper techniques. For those maintaining gardens of any size, knowing where to find reliable supplies and knowledgeable advice is essential. This piece outlines the best places in Kamloops to purchase garden supplies, plants, and receive expert assistance.
Art Knapp Garden Centre & Florist
Since 1972, Art Knapp Garden Centre has served Kamloops gardeners. Spanning over five acres, the centre offers a broad range of plants, including trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, and tropical species. Art Knapp produces in-house soil blends tailored to Kamloops’ specific conditions and stocks seeds from West Coast Seeds and McKenzie, two brands well-regarded across British Columbia.
Fertilizers developed in partnership with Evergro Fertilizer ensure practical nutrient solutions. Staff members, trained in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), provide recommendations for pest and disease control that do not rely solely on chemical treatments. Beyond gardening supplies, Art Knapp also features a florist offering fresh flower arrangements and hosts workshops to support gardeners at all levels.
In addition to their wide range of plants and materials, Art Knapp offers seasonal events, including spring planting seminars and holiday-themed workshops. These sessions provide both beginners and experienced gardeners with opportunities to learn about soil preparation, plant care, and pest management. The centre also maintains an active social media presence, sharing gardening tips, product updates, and community highlights, fostering a connection between the store and local gardeners.
Purity Feed Farm & Garden Centre
Purity Feed Farm & Garden Centre, serving both Kamloops and Merritt, offers a wide selection of gardening products. Customers can find soils, mulches, aggregates, seeds, fertilizers, pest control items, and a variety of gardening tools. The centre also provides livestock feed and pet supplies, making it a convenient stop for both gardeners and small-scale farmers.
A notable program at Purity Feed is Seniors Day, held every Monday, where customers aged 55 and older receive a 15% discount. Staff assist in selecting products suited to the size, soil type, and specific needs of each customer’s garden.
The store emphasizes locally adapted solutions. Staff often recommend seeds and soil mixes proven to perform well in Kamloops’ climate. Purity Feed also collaborates with local agricultural experts to offer seasonal planting advice and troubleshooting assistance. Their bulk purchasing options are helpful for those managing large gardens or community plots, making high-quality soil and mulch accessible at a reasonable cost.
Lyons Landscaping Garden Centre
Lyons Landscaping Garden Centre operates alongside a full-service landscaping company. The centre supplies perennials, annuals, decorative pots, and Aquascape pond supplies. Customers can also purchase bulk materials, including various soil blends and aggregates.
A drive-thru bulk loading system simplifies collecting materials, while delivery services are available for larger orders or those unable to transport materials themselves. Lyons Landscaping caters to both do-it-yourself gardeners and those working with professional landscapers.
Lyons also provides landscaping design consultations. Customers can meet with staff to discuss garden layout ideas, plant choices, and irrigation solutions. For those seeking to install or refresh ponds, the Aquascape supplies cover liners, pumps, and decorative features. The garden centre often hosts sales on seasonal items, helping gardeners keep projects within budget.
The Pond Country Market
Located in Barnhartvale, The Pond Country Market offers a unique combination of a garden centre, restaurant, and gift shop. The garden section includes perennials, annuals, fruits, vegetables, and pond plants. Bulk soil options such as Black Peat Mix and ¾” Clean Crush are also available.
In addition to garden supplies, the market features a licensed restaurant with indoor and patio seating and a gift shop offering handcrafted items and locally made products. This combination allows visitors to purchase plants and materials while also enjoying a meal or browsing for home goods.
The Pond Country Market frequently updates its plant offerings to reflect the changing seasons. Staff provide advice on how to care for pond plants, as well as fruit and vegetable starts. Gardeners seeking ornamental additions can also browse a selection of garden art and structures available at the market. Their community events occasionally include gardening talks or family activities, adding educational opportunities to the shopping experience.
Other Notable Garden Centres
RONA Garden Centre supplies gardening tools and seasonal plants. Although not a dedicated nursery, it provides convenient access to a broad range of gardening supplies and hardware. RONA’s seasonal promotions often include discounts on soil, mulch, and planters, making it a useful stop for basic gardening needs.
Tips for Gardening in Kamloops
Kamloops’ semi-arid climate requires selecting drought-resistant plants and using efficient irrigation methods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and moderate temperature changes. Soil amendments improve structure and fertility, especially in areas with sandy or compacted soils.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combines monitoring, preventative measures, and the least disruptive treatments to manage pests and diseases effectively. This approach minimizes environmental impact while supporting healthy plant growth.
Gardeners in Kamloops should also consider the region’s temperature fluctuations and select plants that tolerate both warm summers and cool nights. Drip irrigation systems and rainwater collection can improve water efficiency. Seasonal soil testing helps gardeners track nutrient levels and adjust fertilization practices as needed.
Conclusion
Kamloops features a variety of garden centres, each offering unique supplies and services. From large nurseries with extensive plant selections to specialized hydroponic stores, gardeners have access to the resources they need. These businesses also provide valuable knowledge and support, helping both new and experienced gardeners succeed. By combining the right supplies with informed techniques, Kamloops gardeners can achieve healthy, productive gardens throughout the growing season.
