In the beginning . . .

The history of Rainbow Garden Nursery is a story of God's blessings. In 1978, newlyweds Mike and Carol, with the hope of beginning a family, started off on a whirlwind adventure in opening their own nursery. Mike, with his love of plants, and prior knowledge working at Monrovia and Nisei Nurseries, and in running his own landscaping company, along with a small inventory of plants, wanted to put it all to good use. So he and Carol borrowed the money to open the business. They soon discovered that they had just enough funds to cover the cost of a water meter and some fencing. To pay the bills, Mike took a job working for the Sheriff's Department at night.

Becky (on the right) and her Daisy Troop friends, selling Christmas Trees at the nursery.

The once weedy patch of land was taking shape. Help was hired and with three girls in tow, the vision of a grand success was coming together. Seedling Christmas trees were planted on the property and Rainbow Garden Nursery and Tree Farm was born.

Mike's landscaping business was beginning to take off. Carol made her girls elf outfits and put them on the street corner to wave at people to stop in and buy a Christmas tree. They also raised liquid amber trees and took them to the plant mart to swap them to buy plants, on an order basis only. From these meager beginnings, it's hard to believe that Rainbow Garden Nursery now runs a successful retail, wholesale, and plant growing grounds spanning over 12 acres.

The true success of the nursery can be measured by the great dedication of the employees. "Many of them have come and gone and some have come back but by and large, many of our employees have been with us for many years. We've raised our children with their children, as far as we're concerned they are family!" Mike and Carol state, "The nursery is a success because of the great generosity of our close family and friends, faithful employees, hard work, and God's blessings!" When asked about their adventures in nursery ownership, they comment, "Through the ups and downs the nursery has brought our family together and has given us the opportunity to meet and develop relationships with many different types of people. "Today, when you visit us, you'll be greeted with a smile and a staff who can answer your questions, locate plant material and help to make your home your paradise."

Celebrity guest Huell Howser, host on KCET, was here working on a fire prevention video project featuring drought tolerant plants.Special guests, visiting us from time to time include our special friend Tom Turkey!!