Entering this commercial business is like walking into an oasis. Soft music floating across the grounds and the soothing sounds of trickling water create a relaxing environment that allows a customer to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Harper’s Nursery on Hayden Road just south of Thomas Road isn’t only a Southern Scottsdale icon, it’s a botanical gem that reflects the laid-back lifestyle of many of the residents of nearby neighborhoods.

Just like Southern Scottsdale, the third-generation nursery has a rustic character and a romantic history that dates back almost 70 years.

Jay Harper, Sr. and his wife Alice started the nursery, originally located on Thomas Road in Phoenix, almost by accident.  Harper worked for the Phoenix Fire Department and grew plants and vegetables in his spare time.  One thing quickly led to another.  And like so many hobbies, the Harpers found themselves starting a burgeoning business when more and more people began stopping in  and asking to buy their family’s products.

 

The Harper’s family business certainly has a celebrated past.  But it’s their future that Jay Harper wants to talk about.  Harper says he is seeing a whole new generation of homeowners moving into Southern Scottsdale.

“People are taking pride in these older homes and fixing them up,” said Jay, who grew up in Southern Scottsdale. ”The area is affordable for first-time home buyers and they are doing some creative things with these homes.  And it seems like it’s contagious.”

Harper’s Nursery is experiencing a real boom in their business.  In response to that uptick, the family is constructing a Design Center at their 2529 N. Hayden Road location.  They expect this new feature to inspire customers’ ideas and creativity, and also expand the nursery’s business.

The grand opening of the Design Center is scheduled for May 3^rd.

Never one to rest on their laurels, the Harpers anticipate 2014 being a very good year for their nursery.  The Harpers are a living legacy – and the family’s nursery will be an integral member of our Southern Scottsdale community for a long time to come.

 Visit Harper’s Nursery at www.HarpersNurseries.com