Napa Master Gardeners Share Tips for Garden Center Visits

Experts advise planning ahead to make the most of your local nursery trip.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:20pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of a lush, vibrant garden captured through a hazy, out-of-focus lens, conveying the tranquil, atmospheric mood of spring gardening preparations.Expert gardening advice helps Napa residents make the most of their local nursery visits.Napa Today

Valerie Saribalis-Cole, a UC Master Gardener from Napa County, has shared advice for residents on how to prepare for a successful visit to their local garden center. The expert gardener emphasizes the importance of making a plan and doing research ahead of time to ensure you find the right plants and supplies for your needs.

Why it matters

As spring gardening season approaches, many Napa residents will be looking to refresh their outdoor spaces. Saribalis-Cole's tips can help gardeners of all skill levels make the most of their time and money at the nursery, leading to healthier, more vibrant gardens.

The details

Saribalis-Cole recommends several steps to prepare for a garden center visit, including making a list of what you need, measuring your planting areas, and researching the best plants for your climate and soil conditions. She also advises bringing photos of your garden to help staff provide personalized recommendations.

  • Garden center visits typically increase in the spring as gardeners prepare their outdoor spaces.

The players

Valerie Saribalis-Cole

A UC Master Gardener of Napa County who has shared advice on preparing for successful garden center visits.

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What they’re saying

“Taking the time to plan ahead can really pay off when you get to the garden center. You'll be able to find exactly what you need and make the most of your visit.”

— Valerie Saribalis-Cole, UC Master Gardener of Napa County

The takeaway

Napa residents can use Saribalis-Cole's expert advice to streamline their garden center visits, saving time and money while creating beautiful, thriving outdoor spaces.