Even on a brisk morning, Terra Nurseries feels warm and lived-in—the kind of plant nursery that belongs exactly where it is. Set within The Shores neighborhood, the three-acre property functions as both a working nursery and a welcoming destination, where visitors can stop in for plants, professional landscaping services, or a quiet loop along the path.
At the entry, the shaded checkout counter stays busy as staff greet guests and share practical advice. Founder Jonathan Cochrane is quick to credit the people behind the scenes. “We are fortunate to have a talented staff that is equally passionate about horticulture and community.” From the cobblestone terrace, color takes over—ornamental sweet potato vine, begonias, petunias, and other seasonal standouts arranged in clusters that pull you deeper into the property’s botanical allure. A mulch walkway traces the pond and eventually leads to the greenhouse at the far end.
In addition to its thoughtfully designed grounds, Terra Nurseries offers a full slate of services, including professional landscape design and installation throughout St. Johns County and up to southern Duval County, serving clients across Northeast Florida. Jonathan’s process is hands-on and customized: he personally takes measurements during site visits, then uses proprietary software to create detailed renderings that show clients exactly what their finished landscape will look like before installation begins. “That way customers can actually see what it’s going to look like.” These 3D previews allow homeowners to make confident decisions with clear visuals. Once plans are finalized, the Terra Nurseries team rolls up their sleeves to install—handling everything from single plantings to full-yard landscape designs and custom planter installations. Most clients work with Terra Nurseries for design and installation rather than ongoing maintenance. Instead, the team places a strong emphasis on education—encouraging customers to bring in photos, ask questions, and learn directly from staff. By assessing issues together and sharing practical guidance, Terra Nurseries empowers customers with the knowledge and confidence to care for their landscaping long after installation is complete.
Terra Nurseries is built for more than shopping, doing the things other nurseries don’t. If you’re trying to add steps to your day, the path makes for an easy morning stroll. Dogs are welcome, too, and it’s common to see guests walking in with a leash in one hand and an empty cart in the other. Back on the patio, generous seating under umbrellas and available WiFi invite visitors to linger, catch up on the news, or work through the day’s brain game.
Jonathan’s approach to the nursery is rooted in curiosity and the pursuit of the unusual. A self-taught horticulturist, he thrives on the search—tracking down rare plants and varieties others overlook. “I like to find things that other people can’t,” he says. “It’s about the search—to be able to find something in the rare plant space. I won’t stop looking for something until I find it.” That mindset defines Terra Nurseries’ character. Though tucked away, it boasts the largest nursery footprint of its kind in the county, offering both scale and a sense of discovery.
Jonathan traces his passion for plants back to early visits to Hollandia Nurseries & Farm in Connecticut, where he grew up. “It was very experience-driven,” he recalls, remembering how the space invited you to slow down. He’s carried that intention into Terra Nurseries—a nursery designed to feel like more than an errand.
The nursery has developed a loyal base of repeat customers, many drawn specifically to its houseplant selection. Visitors come from across Northeast Florida, alongside locals—giving Terra Nurseries the rare balance of a destination business that still feels deeply rooted in its community. “We have inventory that nobody else has, and so we get a lot of repeat customers as a result.” Jonathan’s search-and-find instincts show up in rotating rarities, including variegated paloraense and satakentia palms, hard-to-find monstera varieties, orchids, and fruit trees. When customers find their dream citrus tree and wonder how to get a six-foot plant home, Terra Nurseries makes it easy with local delivery options.
Looking ahead, Jonathan sees Terra Nurseries continuing to evolve. “I’m always looking to do more,” he says, pointing to ideas like sunrise yoga in the spring, repotting classes, sip-and-pot events, terracotta pot painting, and after-hours gatherings—including weddings. That openness to growth, paired with a willingness to take risks, continues to shape what Terra Nurseries can become.
Jonathan sums it up best: “In a world full of hustle and constant distraction, too many businesses lose sight of what truly matters—the customer’s experience and the joy of creating lasting memories. I set out to build a nursery where people come first, a place where everyone feels welcome whether they’re purchasing plants or simply exploring. Terra Nurseries is more than a plant shop; it’s a sanctuary to relax, wander, and discover.” “I like to find things other people can’t. It’s about the search – to be able to find something in the rare plant space. I won’t stop looking for
something until I find it.
TERRA NURSERIES
281 Cacique Dr. St. Augustine
(904) 921-1828
www.terranurseries.com
