Shades of Green Nursery to Become Legacy Garden

After more than four decades of serving as one of San Antonio’s most cherished nurseries, Shades of Green is embarking on a new chapter. The beloved nursery will be transformed into the Shades of Green Legacy Garden, a public garden and natural sanctuary designed to inspire, educate, and restore. A nonprofit foundation—Shades of Green Legacy Foundation—has been established to guide the transformation and preserve the beauty of the property for generations to come.

The nursery will remain fully stocked and open for business through December 31, 2025. In early 2026, it will close to allow for final design changes, site preparations, and construction of new garden spaces and facilities.

At the heart of this vision are longtime owners Roberta Churchin and Bob Webster, who are donating the property and the garden’s master plan to the newly formed nonprofit.

“We’ve always loved that through the years people come to the nursery not only for plants but to enjoy the beauty and serenity it offers.” said Roberta Churchin, co-founder of Shades of Green. “The Legacy Garden will be a peaceful place to gather, observe nature, and experience quiet surroundings.”

“This is our thank-you to the community that has supported us for so many years.” added Bob Webster. “We wanted to protect the beautiful, towering cypress trees that we planted and create a quiet sanctuary that will serve as a space for learning, inspiration and contemplation.”

Once completed, the Shades of Green Legacy Garden will include:

– Abundant native and adapted plantings reflecting the enormous diversity of plants that thrive in South Texas

– Accessible walking paths for strolling through the garden among soothing water features

– Special garden areas such as a labyrinth, reflexology walk, and children’s vegetable garden

– Pollinator gardens and many opportunities to observe nature

– Demonstration beds for organic gardening and sustainable practices

– Countless spaces for peaceful reflection and meditation

While the transformation is underway, customers are encouraged to visit the nursery through the end of 2025 and be part of this final growing season at Shades of Green.

To support the garden’s creation and ensure its long-term care, the foundation has launched a $10 million capital campaign. Funds raised will go toward building unique structures for indoor and outdoor classes and small community events, creating a lush urban oasis, and establishing an endowment to support ongoing maintenance and programming.

To learn more, get involved, or to support the fundraising campaign, visit shadesofgreenlegacy.com or email shadesofgreenlegacy@gmail.com.