Navigator Spotlight: Burgeon Plant Co.
Burgeon Plant Co. owners Jasmine Garza and Hector Rivera inherited a deep love of plants from their families. Hector’s grandparents were migrant farm workers. Jasmine’s grandmother loved taking care of plants. Towards the end of her life, Jasmine’s grandmother found comfort in the plants her granddaughter would bring to her.
Hector pursued a degree in Plant Science at Texas Tech University and the pair both worked with plants before pursuing their own business. In January this year, they started vending at pop-ups. They soon graduated to a truck and asked their Instagram followers where they wanted to see them activate. As it turns out, the Southern end of Downtown and the Southside had a true need for a local plant shop. The pair found a permanent location on South Presa and Burgeon Plant Co. Was born. “We like that you can walk down the street and there’s all these restaurants and shops you can check out,” says Jasmine. “Or you can just take a walk down the River Walk.”
They’ve expanded their services to include consultations for both residential and commercial clients. In store, they carry local artists’ works, which range from sketches to ceramic pots. The store sits next to an artist, tattoo shop, and coffee shop. Their community supports one another through promotions. Jasmine emphasizes the importance of these local connections. “You’re supporting your local economy [when you shop local],” she explains.
Hector also points out that local nurseries and plant shops like Burgeon Plant Co. can deliver a higher quality product as they have the time to ensure product quality and offer specific guidance to clients.
The power of plants is more relevant than ever, according to Hector. “It helps with your mental health and makes the room feel a little livelier,” he explains. In an era when many people are sequestered in their homes, often alone, plants are a way to lift one’s spirits.
During this holiday season, if you are thinking of a loved one, consider getting them the gift of a plant or local art to brighten their day.
Centro San Antonio’s Main Street Economic Development Program is part of the City of San Antonio’s Recovery and Resiliency Plan. The Main Street Navigator team conducts outreach to micro and small businesses to provide support and connect them to critical capital and business development resources. If you own a business downtown, contact us at MainStreet@downtownsa.org. For more Main Street resources, please visit centrosanantonio.org
